Table of Contents

Format

Referee Symposium

The NCVA is an organization that provides volleyball officials in Northern California and Northern Nevada to all levels of the sport from Middle School to College. If you are interested in becoming an Official (Referee) or are a Club Director/Coach interested in attending the NCVA Symposium, the NCVA offers several Officials Training Symposium each season in January, March, and September at different tournaments.

The Symposiums are multi-day event designed to give the participant actual court/game experience while being mentored by instructors prior to their first match. While rules clinics are valuable tools, the on-court game setting is a good way to give experience needed prior to the start of the season.

The first day of a Symposium is divided into two (2) parts, a hands-on classroom session and an on-court training session.

During the hands-on classroom session, we will introduce the participant to the basics of the game of volleyball. The participants will then review subjects such as Court and Equipment, Match Protocol, Officiating Mechanics, Ball Handling, and Scorekeeping.

During the on-court training, you will experience the atmosphere of a tournament. You will participate in watching a match and, while watching the game, an instructor will answer your questions. This demonstration will help you see, in action, what you just learned in class. Students are then assigned to officiate matches on the second and third day of the tournament. You will work with an experienced official and be debriefed after the match to help you improve before you are ready to work a match on your own.

The Symposium is open to all returning and new referees. Any new referees wanting to work the 2020-2021 Club Season will need to attend a Symposium.

Officials Advisory Group (OAG)

The Officials Advisory Group (OAG) is a committee of Regional, Junior National, and National officials within the Northern California Region. They are tasked with working with the NCVA to build the officials division, coordinate and run the new officials’ symposiums, and work with their fellow officials in improving their skills and advancing to the next level as an official.

2021 - 2022 OAG Members

How to become a National Referee

• Meet the “Member in Good Standing” requirements for the Junior National referee.
• Officiate as a Junior National Referee for a minimum of one full season.
• Must apply for candidacy to the NCVA Office by August 1st of the current year. The application must include a letter that supports why you should be considered as a National Official candidate. This letter may be part of your paperwork that will be submitted to USA Volleyball if you are approved by the NCVA to apply to USAV.
• Applicants are expected to be able to participate in two (2) training tournaments prior to the final rating tournament (the California Kickoff Tournament). The Boy’s Power League Regional tournament held in December will be the first training tournament and will be used to evaluate the applicants officiating skills. Training offered will emphasize the officiating skills expected by USA Volleyball from National candidates. The NCVA Boy’s Far Western tournament is the second training tournament that will be used primarily to further develop the applicant’s National level officiating skills. Applicants then must attend the final training and rating tournament. During this tournament, the applicant will be evaluated twice as an R1 and twice as an R2 by NCVA approved raters. Candidates must receive passing ratings on all evaluations in order to be recommended by the NCVA to formally apply to USA Volleyball.
• Pass an online rules test, USAV test C or its equivalent, each season as directed by NCVA.
• Successfully working a match as a scorekeeper.
• The NCVA recommends working a minimum of 10-12 NCVA sanctioned tournament days during the current season as an official to get trained and prepared for the USA Volleyball rating process.
• Follow the guidelines of USA Volleyball for National candidates.
• Fulfill all requirements as required by USA Volleyball such as attend the USAV selected tournament and pass the rating sessions at this tournament.
• The NCVA reserves the right to revoke your application prior to attending the USAV selected tournament if you fail to maintain the professional standards required by NCVA for National Official Candidates from this region.

Officials Pay Structure

The pay structure used by the NCVA is designed to recognize the proficiency level achieved by officials and the actual officiating services provided to the region. There is a base pay provided to each patch level that can be increased when officials exceed the minimum level of services provided to the region required to achieve the “Member in Good Standing” for the patch level. Conversely, the pay structure is designed to recognize when officials do not provide the minimum level of services required to achieve the “Member in Good Standing” for the patch level. Below is the base pay schedule for the patch earned.

Official Level	Region Pay Rate	National Qualifier / Bid Tournament Play
Official In Training	$20 per Match	n/a
Provisional	$22 per Match	$30 per Match
Regional	$25 per Match	$33 per Match
Junior National	$27 per Match	$36 per Match
National	$29 per Match	$39 per Match

Systems of Payment

For the 2021 - 2022 season, the NCVA will offer two (2) forms of payment to all independent contractors performing duties for the Northern California Region. The NCVA Pay period is from the 16th of every month until the 15th of the following month. Payment for all Officials, Tournament Directors, etc., will be issued and processed on the 20th of every month. It is the responsibility of the Independent Contractor to email their match counts for each tournament at the end of the tournament to the NCVA.

• The two (2) forms of payment will consist of one of the following:
  • Pay by Check
  • Direct Deposit

Other Perks

NCVA offers Officials many other perks to working at special tournaments. At the Girls No Dinx/NCVA Far Westerns National Qualifier for example, Officials will receive T-Shirts, a padfolio, free pizza at meetings, and a complimentary hotel room during event nights!

2021 - 2022 Club Season Referee Pay

This pay chart is for league pay, excluding National Level Events. (e.g., No Dinx/NCVA Far Westerns National Qualifier or No Dinx/NCVA Sierra National Qualifier).

2021 - 2022 National Qualifier Referee Pay

This pay chart is for both the Boys and Girls No Dinx/NCVA Far Westerns National Qualifier as well as the No Dinx/NCVA Sierra National Qualifier.

2021 - 2022 Beach Season Referee Pay

Referee Training Symposiums

All Symposiums are open to all returning and new referees. Any new referees wanting to work will need to attend a Symposium before they will be assigned.

The Symposium is a two or three day event designed to give the official actual court/game experience while being mentored by our Training Team prior to sending them to your first match. We feel that although rules clinics are valuable tools, the on court game type setting is a good way to give newer officials the game experience they need prior to the start of the season.

The first part of the symposium will be in a classroom setting and will introduce the officials to the basics of the game of volleyball. The attendees will be given detailed information on subjects such as Court and Equipment Match Protocol (when to arrive, conducting warm-ups etc.), Officiating Mechanics (signal sequences, time out and substitution procedures etc.), Ball Handing (setting and other contract violations), and Scorekeeping.

After the classroom session, you will begin working as part of the officiating team. The Training Team will be nearby to answer any questions you may have. You will work with a veteran official and be debriefed after each match to help you improve before we send you out on your own.

The second and/or third days of the Symposium weekend you will be assigned to work on the court as the paid official (R1) for the court.

Symposium Dates and Locations

Training	Date	Start Time	Location
Symposium Classrooom and On-Court Training	September 11-12, 2021	Saturday 8:30 AM Sunday 7:15 AM	@the Grounds, Roseville
Symposium Classrooom and On-Court Training	January 15-16-17, 2022	Saturday 8:30 AM Sunday 7:15 AM Monday 7:15 AM	San Mateo Event Center
Symposium Classrooom and On-Court Training	February 19-20-21, 2022	Saturday 8:30 AM Sunday 7:15 AM Monday 7:15 AM	San Mateo Event Center
Symposium Classrooom and On-Court Training	March 5-6, 2022	Saturday 8:30 AM Sunday 7:15 AM	San Mateo Expo Center

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NCVA Training Team

Scorekeeping

Scorer Tips & Reminders

Download the USAV Online Scorekeeping Tutorial

1. All CAPITAL letters throughout the score sheet.
2. ALL information prior to the first serve and after the last point should be in pen.
3. In the Officials section, use Last Name, First Name.
4. Tournament Date should be six (6) characters, mm/dd/yy (example: 09/18/05).
5. All times should be in international time (e.g. 9am = 0900, 2:15pm = 1415).
6. After the coin toss, place an “X” in three places (can be done for both sets):
   1. Through the encircled (S) of the serving team.
   2. Through the encircled (R) of the receiving team.
   3. In Service Rounds box 1 for the Position I player of Receiving team.
7. You may use pencil from the first serve until final point is recorded.
8. Make a small check mark over the number in the Service Rounds box for each player’s first serve (if legal serve). Exceptions:
   1. Wrong server
   2. set point awarded to receiving team on loss of rally
   3. In a deciding set, at the change of courts
      • When team on left serves point 8, use a check mark on far left and transfer the last exit score from the previous server from the far left to the far right; no exit score is recorded in far left box, final exit score is recorded in far right box.
      • When the team on the right earns point 8, or the team on the left earns point 8 on a loss of rally, transfer the last exit score from the previous server from the far left to the far right.
9. Three actions on Substitution:
   1. Slash the player #, replace with substituting player #.
   2. Enter the Score at Change (sub team score first).
   3. Slash the team sub.
10. After the last point is recorded (begin using pen):
    1. Record end time in International Time.
    2. Circle both final exit scores (Service Rounds section only).
    3. Record team names and scores of set in Results section.
    4. Hourglass unused points in the Points column for both teams (see example image below).
    5. Check score sheet for errors and proper count of substitutions.
    6. Sign score sheet after all information has been verified.
    7. Obtain Captain/Coach signatures, then offer to 1st referee for signature.

Quick Reference For Pen/Pencil Usage

Pen (Prior to 1st Serve)	Pencil (Everything during set play)	Pen (After last point recorded)
Heading	“Check Mark” for first serve.	Set end time
Officials section	Slashes in Points column	Circle final exit scores
Team Names	Exit Scores	Results Section
3 "X"s for S, R and Service Rounds Box	Substutions and Timeouts	Hourglasses in Points column
Lineups	Sanctions and Remarks	Signature
Set start time

Handouts

Captains Meeting (2021 - 2022 Club Season)

1. Introductions
   • R1 will hold up coin and blow whistle to call over team captains.
   • Have captains introduce themselves.
   • Introduce yourself.
2. Ground Rules
   • Sport Court (both feet on sport court when contact made for serve, one (1) foot contacting if saving ball.)
   • Ceiling playable if on your side. If adjacent court, cannot enter before and after
3. Jewelry
   • Jewelry may be worn provided its nature does not present a concern for safety, such as extremely long necklaces and/or necklaces with large medallions, or large hoop earrings.
   • If there is an R2 present, ask if they have anything to add.
4. Substitutions
   • Let captains know that subs must be inside the attack line ready before serve is beckoned.
   • Ask if there are any questions.
5. Coin Toss
   • Designated each team a side of the coin.
   • After coin is flipped ask winning team captain whether they want side, serve or receive. Then losing team whatever is not chosen.
   • Inform captains of time on court five (5) minutes for serving team and five (5) minutes for receiving team (if both teams have played then warm-ups are three (3) and three (3). No Share Time.
   • Wish each team “Good Luck”!
   • Make sure serving team has the court first (that means receiving team is off to their bench or help shag for the opponent).
   • Start clock, inform scorer who has serve and who has receive.

Time Management

How to finish or, not to finish, your 10 match day over 1 ½ hours earlier

Tournament Protocol (2021 - 2022 Club Season)

Troubling Techniques (2021 - 2022 Club Season)

Using Individual or Delay Penalty

• Whistle
• Call Player (if on court) or captain (if team member not on court or delay) to referee stand
• Explain fault to captain/player; show individual red card or delay penalty
• Signal team to server next

Improper Request

• Second referee signal is a wave off
• First referee whistle at next dead ball period
• Call captain to referee stand
• Explain fault to captain; first referee signal is a hand on the opposite wrist

Served Ball Hits Net Outside Antenna Without Crossing Net

• Signal ball out

Served Ball Hits Second Referee’s Antenna

• Served ball outside the second referee’s antenna or hits the antenna and goes over the net
  • First referee whistle
  • If first referee does not whistle; second referee whistle
• Served ball hits antenna in body of net on second referee side
  • First referee whistle

Time-Outs

Second referee must whistle to end time-out even if teams are ready to play

Time Between Sets

• Second referee must whistle to end time interval between sets
• If players are not on the court at 2 minutes 30 seconds, second referee whistles
  • Second referee must also whistle at 3 minutes to end timed interval
• If players are on the court at 2 minutes, 30 seconds, second referee checks line-ups and whistles at 3 minutes

Deciding Set

• 3 minutes starts at end of previous set
• Second referee conducts coin toss
• Notify first referee of results
• If teams need to switch sides, second referee helps administer this process
• There is no whistle from first or second referee

Switch Courts Signal Between Sets

Start with arms at your side and then raise the forearms counterclockwise front and back around the body at waist level, hands closed. (Same as NCAA)

Whistles to End Set/Match

• To end 2nd set and before deciding set
  • Whistle to end rally
  • Signal team to serve and signal fault
  • Whistle; signal end of set; motion teams to bench by making sub authorization signal with both hands at the same time toward benches
  • Second referee whistles and holds up coin for captains
• To end match
  • Whistle to end rally
  • Signal team to serve and signal fault
  • Whistle; signal end of set; and signal teams to end lines
  • Whistle; signal players to net to shake hands

USAV Rating Sheet - List of Critical Errors

Conduct such as, but not limited to:

• Making derogatory remarks to coaches, players, or spectators.
• Engaging in interactions with spectators.
• Displaying unsupportive attitude regarding the decisions or performance of other officials during any portion of the tournament where ratings take place.
• Using alcohol or illegal drugs during the rating session.
• Making racial slurs.
• Making sexual remarks.
• Fraternizing with players, coaches, or spectators while in uniform during the rating session.
• Showing favoritism toward a team.
• Completely losing control of team conduct during a match.
• Use of cell phones or other communication devices while officiating.
• Late to or missing an assignment.
• Other unprofessional or unethical conduct on or off the court.
• Not following venue, NCVA, local, county, and federal COVID-19 Guidelines.

Welcome to Beach Officiating!

The NCVA is looking to build our Beach Officials members and assist you in another avenue to expand your officiating skills and opportunities. We train, evaluate and certify referees for all types of outdoor volleyball, including doubles, triples, fours and sixes, played on both grass and sand surfaces. We support junior, collegiate and professional play.

It is important to note that we are beach officials, not beach referees. To certify for beach officiating, you must train in all of the officiating roles: lines-judge and scorer, as well as first and second referee!

The following pages will thoroughly describe the requirements for becoming a beach official, and for maintaining your rating. But first, let us take a moment to look at the big picture:

How Do I get Started?

• Get off to a great start by making use of our online-tools: Go to VolleyballRefTraining.com and look at the Training Materials, Rules & Interpretations, Certifications, and Resource for beach officiating. You will find presentations, rules comparisons, scoring instruction, and other tools, all online for your at-home convenience!
• The NCVA hosts beach officiating training camps each summer.
• If you are already an experienced beach official, you can certify directly at one of our Zonal Certification Clinics.
• To apply for a Certification Clinic or a camp, please contact the NCVA.

Becoming a Beach Volleyball Official at the Local Level

The entry level Beach Volleyball Official certification that is awarded by a Region is a Local Beach Official. Certification and recertification requirements are to be administered by the NCVA. The suggested criteria used for a Local Beach Official are as follows:

• The official must be a regular member of USAV.
• The official will need to complete all SafeSport courses.
• The official must successfully pass and maintain USAV background screening if they will be officiating junior’s competition.
• The official will need to attend a Beach officiating clinic either in person or online every season.
• The official will need to take the current Beach officials’ exam either online or hardcopy. (all exams must be corrected to 100% with rule references).
• The official will need to prove proficiency in all portions of Beach officiating (i.e. R1, R2, Scorekeeping, and Line Judge). This proficiency will be measured by practical ratings and observation. These ratings will be conducted at USAV events either in region or nationally. Ratings should be conducted by Beach Officials who hold a Zonal rating or higher.
  • Receive one (1) passing rating as an R1.
  • Receive one (1) passing rating as an R2.
  • Receive one (1) passing rating as a Scorer. This requirement can be met by successful use of the USAV Beach score sheet while performing their duties as an R1 or R2.
  • The Official will need to be observed as a Line Judge with feedback provided to ensure that they understand the correct technique.

Required Uniform

Shirt	All white, blue or grey polo shirt, short or long sleeves, with the “Certified Volleyball Official” logo on the arm. For NCVA local tournaments, an NCVA Beach Official T-Shirt may be worn.
Slacks	Dark navy or black shorts made of 100% polyester are recommended. Other fabric combinations are permitted as long as the dark navy color doesn’t appear to be faded. However, “Dockers” are specifically prohibited.
Belt	Black or dark navy in color.
Shoes	Shoes must be all white, black or white sandals, or barefoot.
Jacket	Jackets are optional. If worn they must be primarily white with the “Certified Volleyball Officials” logo on the left chest.

Member Code of Conduct

• USAV Member Code of Conduct

Officials Code of Behavior

As an Official, I:

• Will participate in volleyball free of alcohol and drugs.
• Will use positive verbal and physical behavior, controlling my temper and aggression.
• Will give true information concerning another individual’s involvement in or knowledge of an incident relevant to a violation of the rules.
• Will officiate by the rules of volleyball.
• Will display fair play by treating all those involved in the match with dignity and respect.
• Will treat others as I would like to be treated.
• Will work hard and honestly to improve performance and participation.
• Will maintain a positive image of myself by participating for enjoyment.
• Will comply with and respect all decisions made by the tournament director, including format and all necessary sanctions.
• Will abide by all facility rules.

Volleyball Spectator Code of Conduct

• Remain in the spectator area during matches.
• Do not make derogatory comments to coaches, officials, tournament directors or players of either team.
• Do not drink alcohol at tournaments or come to a tournament having consumed too much alcohol.
• Respect the integrity and judgment of the officials without taunting or approaching them at any time.
• Be in control of your emotions.
• Respect the rights of others and treat the visiting team and their spectators courteously.
• Abide by all applicable federal, state, and local laws while attending any match.
• Cheer positively for your team, using socially acceptable language.
• Follow the rules of the event
• Follow the rules of the facility, such as NO FOOD IN GYM, no beach chairs, etc.
• Use litter receptacles to properly dispose of trash.
• Use only designated smoking areas that are clearly posted.
• Applaud good performances by both teams. Excessive noise during such as pounding on bleachers or use of artificial noise makers is not permitted.
• Discourage all forms of violent behavior.
• I will direct all questions at an event to the Head Coach or Club Director for my team/club as opposed to contacting the Tournament Director directly.
• I will not contact any site used by NCVA directly
• I understand that there are consequences for my behavior that may include removal from the event in addition to potential penalties against the team I am affiliated with including, but not limited to removing the team from the event and awarding last place points.

Schedules

Below is a listing of tournament dates where officials will be needed. Please see the Fees and Membership Section for more information on signing up to officiate an event.

2021 - 2022 Boys’ League

	12	14/13	16/15	18/17
Qualifier	Sep 18 - Sep 19	Sep 11 - Sep 12	Sep 18 - Sep 19	Sep 11 - Sep 12
League #1	Oct 2	Oct 3	Oct 3	Oct 2
League #2	Oct 24	Oct 23	Oct 23	Oct 24
League #3	Nov 14	Nov 13	Nov 13	Nov 14
Regional Championship	Dec 18 - Dec 19	Dec 11 - Dec 12	Dec 11 - Dec 12	Dec 18 - Dec 19

2021 - 2022 Boys’ Special Events

Tournament	Date	Locations	Divisions	Website
No Dinx/NCVA Boys Far Western	January 8-9, 2022	Santa Clara Convention Center		www.ncva.com/boysbid
Bay View Classic	May 28-29-30, 2022	@the Grounds (Roseville) Capital Sports Center		www.ncva.com/bayview

2021 - 2022 Girls’ League

	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18
	Sites	Sites	Sites	Sites	Sites	Sites	Sites	Sites
Qualifier	Feb 5 - Feb 6	Feb 5 - Feb 6	Jan 29 - Jan 30	Jan 29 - Jan 30	Feb 5 - Feb 6	Feb 5 - Feb 6	Dec 18 - Dec 19	Dec 18 - Dec 19
League #1	Feb 26	Feb 26	Feb 27	Feb 27	Feb 26	Feb 26	Jan 9	Jan 8
League #2	Mar 12	Mar 13	Mar 19	Mar 13	Mar 19	Mar 20	Jan 29	Jan 30
League #3	Mar 27	Mar 26	Mar 27	Mar 27	Apr 9	Apr 10	Feb 13	Feb 12
Region Championships	May 7 - May 8	May 14 - May 15	May 14 - May 15	May 7 - May 8	May 14 - May 15	May 14 - May 15	Mar 5 - Mar 6	Apr 2 - Apr 3

2021 - 2022 Girls’ Special Events

Tournament	Date	Locations	Divisions	Website
Kickstart	January 15, 2022	San Mateo Event Center	11/12 13/14 15/16	ncva.com/kickstart
California Kickoff	January 15-16-17, 2022	San Mateo Event Center Santa Clara Convention Center Sacramento Convention Center	11 Open & Club 12 Open & Club 13 Open & Club 14 Open & Club 15 Open & Club 16 Open & Club 17 Open & Club 18 Open & Club	ncva.com/kickoff
No Dinx/NCVA President’s Day Tournament	February 19-20-21, 2022	San Mateo Event Center @the Grounds (Roseville)	11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18	ncva.com/presidentsday
No Dinx/NCVA Sierra National Qualifier	March 4-5-6, 2022	Reno-Sparks Convention Center	18 Open 18 USA 18 Liberty 18 American 18 No Dinx	ncva.com/sierra
No Dinx/NCVA Golden State Classic	March 5-6, 2022	San Mateo Event Center	11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18	ncva.com/goldenstate
No Dinx/NCVA March Madness	March 19-20, 2022	Capital Sports Center	12s & 16s 14s & 18s	ncva.com/marchmadness
No Dinx/NCVA Spring Fling	March 19-20, 2022	International Agri-Center, Tulare, CA	11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18	ncva.com/springfling
No Dinx/NCVA Far Western	April 23-24-25, 2022	Reno-Sparks Convention Center	11 National 11 No Dinx 12 American 12 National 12 No Dinx 12 USA 13 American 13 Liberty 13 No Dinx 13 Open 13 USA 14 American 14 Liberty 14 No Dinx 14 Open 14 USA 15 American 15 Liberty 15 No Dinx	ncva.com/farwestern
No Dinx/NCVA Far Western	April 29-30, May 1, 2022	Reno-Sparks Convention Center Reno Event Center	15 Open 15 USA 16 American 16 Liberty 16 No Dinx 16 Open 16 USA 17 American 17 Liberty 17 No Dinx 17 Open 17 USA 18 Prime 18 Select	ncva.com/farwestern
Bay View Classic	May 28-29-30, 2022	@the Grounds (Roseville) Capital Sports Center Sacramento Convention Center	11 Open 11 Club 12 Open 12 Club 13 Open 13 Club 14 Open 14 Club 15 Open 15 Club 16 Open 16 Club 17 Open 18 Club 18 Open 12 14/13 16/15 18/17	ncva.com/bayview

2021 - 2022 Beach Tournaments

TBD

Want to become a Tournament Director?

The NCVA is always looking to train new people into becoming tournament directors for our tournaments. It is a great way to make some money and also watch some great volleyball. We have tournaments almost every weekend during the sanctioned season. If you are interested in viewing the responsibilities of a tournament director you can review the Tournament Director Handbook or you can email us and we will provide you with information. If you are interested in becoming a tournament director, please email us at [email protected] for more information.

SafeSport Registration

USA Volleyball has ruled that all Officials must become SafeSport Certified.

The primary goal is to help all officials understand and become well-skilled in the awesome responsibility and incredible opportunity they have to influence young people positively through the sport of volleyball.

The NCVA would like to assist all officials in becoming responsible officials and to develop a clearer understanding of their responsibility and opportunity.

SafeSport

USA Volleyball believes that volleyball has many positive things to offer those who participate. First, and most importantly, whether one is a gifted athlete or a recreational player, volleyball is FUN! It is a lifetime sport enjoyed by players from 8 to 80. Participation in volleyball is not only good exercise, but also involves team cooperation and spirit.

Athletes enjoy a wide range of physical, emotional and social benefits. Sports develop general physical fitness, and physical exertion has a documented positive mental effect. Athletes have a greater sense of self-worth, demonstrate better collaboration skills, and maintain healthier peer relationships.

Unfortunately, sports, including volleyball, can also be a high-risk environment for misconduct, including physical and sexual abuse. All forms of misconduct are intolerable and in direct conflict with the values of USA Volleyball.

Misconduct may damage an athlete’s psychological well-being. Athletes who have been mistreated may experience social embarrassment, emotional turmoil, psychological scars, loss of self-esteem and negative impacts on their relationships with family, friends and the sport. Misconduct often hurts an athlete’s competitive performance and may cause enough harm for them to drop out of our sport entirely.

USA Volleyball is committed to fostering a fun, healthy and safe sport environment for all its members. We must recognize that the safety of minors lies with all those involved in the sport and is not the sole responsibility of any one person at the club, regional or national level.

We all have a role to play in providing a healthy setting for our sport. The USA Volleyball SafeSport Program raises awareness about possible misconduct in our sport, promotes open dialogue and provides training and resources. When we work as a team, we can build a plan to make volleyball safe – for everyone.

USA Volleyball members should use the policies, guidelines, best practices, strategies and tools available to implement SafeSport practices at the local level. Together we can provide a safe environment for all members to enjoy the sport of volleyball.

Annually, NCVA officials are required to take the “SafeSport Refresher” course.

Guiding Principles

1. USA Volleyball is committed to providing a safe, healthy and positive environment for its participants’ physical, emotional and social development.
2. USA Volleyball believes in an environment free from abuse and misconduct.
3. USA Volleyball believes that all non-athlete members share a collective responsibility to protect our membership.
4. USA Volleyball will make training available for all members to increase awareness and understanding of athlete protection policies and best practices. USA Volleyball will provide a process for members to recognize, respond to and report any SafeSport issues that arise.
5. USA Volleyball will provide resources, information and guidance on SafeSport related issues to all members, including coaches, parents and athletes.
6. USA Volleyball will treat all allegations of abuse or concerns regarding athlete safety seriously and will respond appropriately and as prescribed by the USA Volleyball policies.

Membership Fees

As of September 1, 2021, all officials participating in NCVA events must renew their membership status or become a new member. No payments will be issued until the current season’s memberships are up to date.

Membership and Background Check fees are non-transferable and non-transferable and must be paid online.

Individual Membership (NCVA Club Official Referee Membership)	$70.00
Individual Background Check	$15.00

Registering as a Member

If you were previously a player, coach, or other club member, you are a renewing member. If you have questions, please contact us at [email protected].

NCVA Independent Contractor Agreement	The NCVA Independent Contractor Agreement is now available online and will be electronically signed.
NCVA W-9 and Independent Contractor Form	You must submit the required W-9 form along with the Independent Contractor form. Please note that there is also an option to submit for direct deposit at the end of the form, this is optional and the form will not require you to submit.

Resources for Club Season

The following resources have been provided for use by Officials during any of our club seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions	The Officials Advisory Group (OAG) has compiled a l ist of commonly asked questions. If you think on should be added, send us an email.
Independent Contractor Agreement	This document outlines responsibilities for all referees. Required to be electronically submitted by ALL referees each season. Use this link to sign this document electronically.
Libero Serving Guidelines	Detailed information on the guidelines for allowing the libero to serve.
Libero Tracker	The libero tracking sheet used by all NCVA/USAV sanctioned events.
Lineup Sheet	The lineup sheet used by all NCVA/USAV sanctioned events.
Membership	Use this link to register as a member and submit the required background screening
National and Advancement Clinics	These clinics are designed to help you enhance your refereeing skills and improve your performance in every match you officiate.
Officiating Materials	A detailed list of all recommended and required officiating materials.
Payment Forms	Officials | Tournament Directors/Clinicians
Pre-Match Responsibilities	Detailed information on your pre-match conference with your officiating crew.
Rulebook (Beach)	The Domestic Competition Regulations (DCR) for all NCVA/USAV sanctioned events.
Rulebook (Indoor)	The Domestic Competition Regulations (DCR) for all NCVA/USAV sanctioned events.
Rules Comparisons	USAV/NFHS/NCAA: This document outlines all the rules difference between USAV (Club), NCAA (College), and NFHS (High School).
Scoresheet	The scoresheet used by all NCVA/USAV sanctioned events.
Sign up to work	Use this link to submit and review your application(s) to work club season tournaments.
Signals	A detailed list of all hand signals used by referees during the club season.
Significant Rules Modifications & Clarification
Uniform	A detailed list of all uniform items worn by referees at all NCVA/USAV sanctioned events.
Uniform Guide	A brief overview of team uniform requirements and reminders for this season.
Uniform Requirements & Guidelines	Online tool to assist with team uniform requirements. Also includes the option to submit team uniforms for approval by the USAV Officials’ Division.

Resources for Middle & High School Seasons

The following resources have been provided for use by Officials during the middle and high school seasons.

Conflict of Interest Policy	This document is required for all High School and Middle School Officials.
Contact Information & Site Availability	This document helps to determine how to reach an official and where they can travel to during the High School and Middle School seasons.
Directions	This page includes addresses and directions for all schools serviced by NCVA.
Independent Contractor Agreement	This document outlines responsibilities for all referees. Required to be submitted by all referees each season.
Membership	Use this link to register as a member and submit the required background screening.
Payment Form	Submit information about which matches you have officiated.
Rules Clinics	Rules Clinics for New or Returning Referees. Attendance of a rules clinic is required for any official that intends to official during the Girls’ or Boys School season.
Rules Comparisons	USAV/NFHS/NCAA: This document outlines all the rules difference between USAV (Club), NCAA (College), and NFHS (High School).
Schedule Availability	This gives the NCVA your schedule availability for each High School and Middle School season.
Uniform	A detailed list of all uniform items worn by referees at all NCVA/USAV sanctioned events.

Required Officiating Materials

1. Whistle – Fox 40 or similar on a lanyard.
2. Cards – Yellow and Red
3. Coin for flipping.
4. Timing Device – watch, etc. – must have a second hand.
5. Current rule book.
6. Ball pump and pressure gauge.
7. Chain to measure net height.

Recommended Officiating Materials

1. Set of flags for lines usage.
2. Half Dozen 3×5 cards for notes.
3. A small carrying bag for the above listed equipment.

Required Officiating Attire

1. Shirt: all white polo style shirt with “Volleyball Certified Official” logo on the left sleeve. The uniform shirt should be clean and wrinkle free.
2. Slacks: Pressed or ironed navy-blue slacks.
3. Shoes: all white leather. Shoes should be clean and/or polished.
4. Belt: black or dark navy-blue leather belt.
5. Socks: white crew

Recommended Officiating Attire

1. Vest: white, sleeveless sweater vest worn over a uniform shirt (may also be worn during the match).
2. Sweater: white V-Neck pullover with embroidered designation on the left check. (may also be worn during the match)
3. Jacket: white windbreak type of jacket (should not be worn during the match).
4. Other: phone and other electronic devices should not be worn on the stand.

High School Referee Clinic Information

These rules clinics are open to all new and returning referees. All officials that would like to work the Girls’ or Boys’ High School seasons will need to attend a Rules Clinic.

If you would like to attend one of these clinics, please email us.

Returning Referees

Date	Time	Location
January 5, 2022	7:00 PM	via Zoom
February 2, 2022	7:00 PM	via Zoom
March 2, 2022	7:00 PM	via Zoom

New Referees

Date	Time	Location
TBA	7:00 PM	via Zoom
TBA	7:00 PM	via Zoom
TBA	7:00 PM	via Zoom

Conflict of Interest Policy

Background

The Northern California Volleyball Association (NCVA) promotes and maintains standards for performance that strive for the highest levels of professionalism and service to our clients. This Conflicts-of-Interest Policy is to ensure that the NCVA officials work games in a manner so as to maintain independent and objective officiating.

Members shall identify conflict of interest relationships by submitting the NCVA’s conflict of interest form every year.

Members shall provide the following conflict of interest information with respect to schools and/or leagues serviced by the NCVA:

• Member has attended or graduated from a school in a league serviced by the NCVA within the previous 15 years.
• Member currently has a family member attending a school in a league serviced by the NCVA.
• Member has a family member who, within the previous four (4) years, played any sport for a school in a league serviced by the NCVA.
• Member, or any family member, currently is working, or has worked within the previous four (4) years, as a paid employee with a school serviced by the NCVA
• Member, or any family member, currently is regularly volunteering, or has within the previous four (4) years regularly volunteered, with a school serviced by the NCVA.
• Member, or any family member, currently is, or has within the previous four (4) years been, an athletic director or volleyball coach at a school serviced by the NCVA.
• Member, or any family member, has a business relationship with a school in a league serviced by the NCVA.
• Member, or any family member, has a business or social relationship with an athletic director or volleyball coach of a school in a league serviced by the NCVA.
• Member has any other actual or potential conflicts of interest with respect to any school in a league serviced by the NCVA.

Eligibility for assignments where an actual or potential conflict of interest has been identified will be determined by the NCVA. A member who has been determined to be ineligible for any game assignment shall have the right to appeal such determination to the NCVA.

If any NCVA official is prohibited from working any school, league, or team due to this conflict of interest process, that prohibition and other information relating to the prohibition is confidential and is not to be published or communicated to anyone other than the Assignors specifically involved and the NCVA.

Failure to disclose information, that is later determined to be a conflict, may result in suspension from officiating for NCVA.

Pre-Match Responsibilities

Line judges

• Have you worked lines before?
• Will you be working the whole match? (if not, ask to talk to all four line judges)
• The main thing I ask is for lines people to make a call every single time. No matter how obvious!
• Regardless of their experience ask: What are the signals line judges need to know?
  1. Out
  2. In (ANY TIME ball lands on or within the lines, pancakes)
  3. Touch (off any player & lands out)
  4. Foot Fault (and where to stand if server stands near)
  5. Antenna Fault (similar to Foot Fault, ask what can happen to make this signal)
  6. Ball touches any part of the antenna or part of the net/pole
  7. Ball crosses the net directly over or outside the antenna
  8. Judgment impossible (if blocked by players)
• Try to get eye contact at the end of each point – tell your line judges to hold their signal
• Position DURING game: Should be at the corner of end-line and side line, off court
• Position at TIME-OUTS: Should be at end line, center back – holding the volleyball
• At the end of each set and at the end of the match, retrieve the game ball and bring up to table
• Remind Line Judges that the Up Ref may over rule the call but they should not take it personally – each person will have a different perspective on the same play.
• Do not shag the ball; let the playing teams get it. We need you on the court and ready for the next point especially if the ball goes a long distance and someone throws the ball back to the court.

Scorers’ table

• Where is the coach? Must be at the table during the entire match.
• This is after the captain’s meeting so R1 or R2 tells scorekeeper which team serves first. Start filling out the “Officials’ section”. Confirm the correct teams are playing and working!
• BOTH R2 AND SCORE KEEPER should check the line-ups because this is a team sport!
• Everyone should help each other with #’s for substitutions and libero replacements!
  • Hold the subs if you and/or the scorekeeper need more time - especially with multiple subs
  • The R2 should give you ready sign especially after multiple subs
• Watch for Libero serving and proper procedure
  • Both scorekeeper and libero tracker put “triangle” around roman numeral for server
  • Don’t forget to put triangles around any points scored while libero is serving
• What to do if wrong server, improper substitute/replacement?
  • Scorekeeper will let you know as soon after contact as possible!
  • Confirm score.
• What to do at the start of a time out?
  • Scorekeeper will let you know if each libero is on or off the court
  • How many time-outs have been taken by each team?
• Inform the coaches when they have taken subs #9, 10, 11, and 12
• R1 needs to know when all 12 subs have been used
• Confirm they know how to document any sanctions
• Before leaving the table, scorekeeper will make sure to COMPLETE the score sheet (no matter if it is after the 1st, 2nd or 3rd set!)
• Every so often check that score is correct with the scorekeeper
• Show score to both sides (especially if a few points in a row)
• Help with substitutions (sub coming on the left, 3 in 5 out)
• And with libero replacements

R2

• We all work as a team!
• Time warm ups 5 minutes for each team or 3 minutes each if both teams have already played a match
• What do we do after the entrance/presentation?
  • Both R2 and Scorekeeper check the line-ups
  • R2 does not lean against the pole
  • Be sure to have your whistle in your mouth and ready to make calls
  • Watch the receiving team for overlaps upon contact of serve
  • Then move to the blocking side for nets
  • Look at hands for a touches
  • Look for a net violation
  • Continue downward scan to any centerline faults (if it’s a safety issue or interference)
• Transition to blocker side (if time/play allows) multiple times during one point
• Stand where you can see whole center line
• What are the four instances where you can blow your whistle?
  • Antenna violation on your side
  • Whistle and signal
• Centerline faults
  • Whistle and signal
• Time outs
  • When a coach/team requests a time out
  • Whistle and signal the time out
• Substitutions
  • When a substitute enters the sub-zone
  • Whistle and signal
  • Waive the sub onto the court
  • Announce the sub numbers so scorers can note it on the score sheet
  • May have to slow the subs down especially if more than one substitute enters the sub zone or both teams request subs – in order to make sure scorers get the information
• You can help if you think the R1 might not have seen these (Discreet signals):
  • Lift
  • Double contact
  • Missed pancake
  • Back-row attack
• Notify R1 with discrete signals by your chest
• Follow/mirror the referee’s hand signals after each dead ball
• R1 and R2 will have frequent eye contact throughout the match. This insures both are on the same page.
• Breathe and have fun!

Expectations

First Referees

• Eye-contact with the officiating team and participants.
• Match control – address all issues; be aware of all match situations; address conduct when needed – not necessary to wait for second referee to request a sanction since R1 has ultimate control over match.
• Establish and maintain a brisk, but unhurried match tempo.
• Excellent signals and strong whistle.
• Court awareness – be aware of extraneous items/equipment on court; recognize non-participants on court; errant balls; injury situations.
• Ensure antennas are properly aligned before EVERY match; check prior to warm-ups; re-check R1’s antenna before getting on stand to start.
• Understanding Sport Court rules, particularly regarding the service authorization.
• When teams have different degree of skill, maintain consistency appropriate to both sides.
• Call net faults appropriately but give second referee time to call most nets. Allow appropriate & consistent latitude on the net contacts that do not interfere with play.
• Adjust judgment to level of competition.
• Give verbal warnings at appropriate times with appropriate demeanor.
• Protect other officials from abuse by participants/spectators.
• Ensure all COVID-19 protocols and policies are being enforced.

Second Referees

• Be on the offending team’s side at the end of each rally; required. ALWAYS step to the offending side when you (R2) are whistling the fault.
• Awareness of player positions/alignments; appropriate verbal warnings; appropriate calls when required.
• Helping the R1 “get it right” – back row faults, pancakes, Libero playing faults; proper use of discreet signals.
• Appropriate interactions with coaches, when needed.
• Good communication with scoring crew; includes waiting for the Score Keeper to finish recording subs/information before giving “ready” signal; require Score Keeper to use “ready” signal.
• Assist with conduct control and request appropriate sanctions when necessary.
• Ensure antennas are properly aligned before EVERY match; check prior to warm-ups; re-check R2’s antenna before the walk out presentation.
• Control substitution procedures – one sub in the zone at a time; a separate whistle for each team’s sub requests.
• Secure the game ball between sets and after the match.
• Call net faults.
• Adapt to level of competition.
• Use correct signaling sequence in appropriate tempo.
• Obtain a clear view of the receiving team prior to each serve but be positioned so that peripheral vision can detect activity from serving team’s bench.
• Address players / coaches respectfully, always in a dignified way.
• Display superior verbal and non-verbal communication skills with the other officials; avoid inappropriate body language.
• Ensure all COVID-19 protocols and policies are being enforced.

Unprofessional Conduct

• Sloppy uniform; scuffed or dirty shoes.
• Line-up sheets, ref bags, or other non-essential items placed on the water barrels.
• “Leaving without your partner”, i.e., the first referee beckoning for service without first ensuring R2 is ready.
• R2 giving “ready” without first receiving this signal from Score Keeper.
• Overly attentive to location of substitutes at the end of the bench; handle this pre-match and again during line-up checks prior to match!
• Lack of communication and eye contact. Scan, scan, scan! See everything on your court, especially prior to each beckon.
• PERSONAL use of cell phones! Calling Tournament Desk or a Head Referee may be acceptable, but even that isn’t preferable.
• Missing deadlines, not responding in a timely manner to communications.
• Not showing up on the day of tournament. Showing up late.
• Lack of time management on your court which creates matches to back-up.
• Making derogatory remarks to coaches, players, or spectators- about the NCVA, other officials, or any other NCVA member.
• Engaging in interactions with spectators.
• Displaying unsupportive attitude regarding the decisions or performance of other officials during any portion of the tournament at all.
• Using alcohol or illegal drugs while working.
• Making racial slurs.
• Making sexual remarks.
• Fraternizing with players, coaches, or spectators while in uniform.
• Showing favoritism toward a team.
• Completely losing control of team conduct during a match.
• Following an incorrect protest procedure.
• Other unprofessional or unethical conduct on or off the court.

What we are looking for

In order to assist the officials of the NCVA to prepare for advancement from Provisional to Regional and beyond; below we have listed what the NCVA and the USAV evaluators will be looking for in their observations. This (we hope) will help you prepare for evaluation during the season.

Provisional / Regional Rating

1. Knows the rules and how to apply them
   • Applying Sanctions
   • Protest Situations
2. Knowledge of the use of the USAV score sheet
3. Good mechanics
4. Knows the techniques of an R1 and R2
   • First Referee technique when second referee whistle’s fault.
   • Second Referee technique when they whistle fault.
5. Knows how to transition as an R2
   • Knows when to have secondary transition.
   • In position to help with antenna faults.
   • Looks in the right spot for positional faults.
   • Does not leave the net early – sees center line violations.
   • Sees the play develop through the net.
   • Libero hand-set in front zone
   • Sees the take off for back row attacks.
6. Has bench and court awareness
   • Address coaches when appropriate.
   • Controlling bench players too close to court.
   • Playing area free of obstacles (water bottles, bags, spectators).
   • Anticipation of interruptions.
7. Recognizes positional faults
   • Warn or Whistle?
   • Communication with participants and coaches.
8. Recognizes back row faults
   • Back Row Attacks (BRA)
   • Back Row Blocks (BRB)
   • Libero illegal attacks
   • Libero blocking/attempt to block
   • Collective Blocks
9. Teamwork with entire officiating crew
   • Centers with partner.
   • As R2, gives help with four (4) hits, back row faults, pancakes where partner may be screened.
   • As R1, proper use of Line Judges (when to take information, when to over-rule).
   • As R2, works with the score table (table clear of phones, food, water bottles)
10. Ball-handling consistency
    • Not too tight
    • Not too loose
    • Set a level that you can be consistent, and the players can play.
11. Attention to details
    • Tournament Procedures
    • Time Management (time between matches, sets and time-outs)
12. The ability to bounce back from mistakes
    • Staying calm under pressure
      • After sanctions are given
      • After close/controversial calls
13. Be a facilitator
    • Preventative Officiating
      • Takes care of little things before they become bigger issues.
      • Performs duties without being over officious.
    • Help participants through the match
    • Stay in the background (do not insert self when not needed)
14. Professionalism
    • Show up on time, make sure you CHECK IN and OUT with the Head Official.
    • On the court
      • Maintains an appropriate demeanor
      • On the stand (during TO and in between set) (not leaning, not on cell phone unless entering scores).
    • Off the court
      • Open, Receptive, Non-confrontational during debriefs.
    • Appearance
      • Well groomed
      • Proper uniform – Belt, Clean white shoes, Navy blue pants (not faded, or wrinkled)

Junior National Rating

1. Knows the rules and how to apply them
   • Applying sanctions
   • Protest situations
2. Knowledge of the use of the USAV score sheet
3. Good mechanics
4. Knows the techniques of an R1 and R2
   • First Referee technique when second referee whistle’s fault.
   • Second Referee technique when they whistle fault.
5. Knows how to transition as an R2
   • Knows when to have secondary transition
     • In position to help with antenna faults
   • Looks in the right spot for positional faults
   • Does not leave the net early – sees center line violations.
   • Sees the play develop through the net.
     • Libero hand-set in front zone.
     • Sees the take off for back row attacks.
6. Has bench and court awareness
   • Address coaches when appropriate
   • Controlling bench players too close to court
   • Playing area free of obstacles (water bottles, bags, spectators)
   • Anticipation of interruptions.
7. Recognizes positional faults
   • Warn or Whistle?
   • Communication with participants and coaches.
8. Recognizes back row faults
   • Back Row Attacks (BRA)
   • Back Row Blocks (BRB)
   • Libero illegal attacks
   • Libero blocking/attempting to block.
   • Collective Blocks
9. Teamwork with entire officiating crew
   • Centers with partner
   • As R2, gives help with 4 hits, back row faults, pancakes where partner may be screened
   • As R1, proper use of LJs (when to take information, when to over-rule)
   • As R2, works with the score table (table clear of phones, food, water bottles)
10. Ball-handling consistency
    • Not too tight
    • Not too loose
    • Set a level that you can be consistent, and the players can play.
11. Attention to details
    • Tournament procedures
    • Time management (time between matches, sets and time outs)
12. The ability to bounce back from mistakes
    • Staying calm under pressure
      • After sanctions are given
      • After close/controversial calls
13. Be a facilitator
    • Preventative officiating
      • Takes care of little things before they become bigger issues.
      • Performs duties without being over officious
    • Help participants through the match
    • Stay in the background (do not insert self when not needed)
14. Professionalism
    • On the court
      • Maintains an appropriate demeanor
    • Off the court
      • Open, Receptive, Non-confrontational during matches
    • Appearance
      • Well groomed
      • Proper uniform – Belt, Clean white shoes, Navy blue pants (not faded, or wrinkled)

Evaluation Forms

The following forms are made available to aid in evaluating referree and scorekeeping performance.

Provisional to Regional Officials Evaluation Form
NCVA Junior National Candidate Rating Sheet
National Scorer Candidate Rating Sheet

Communication

The communication in the NCVA Officials’ Division is as follows:

Day of Event

On the day of event, if you are running late, or for whatever reason will not be able to attend that day, contact another official at the site to the get information to the Head Official or Tournament Director. They need to know as soon as possible to plan the rest of the day. Use the “Buddy System”.

NCVA Office

Communications will be made in the same manner to all officials, with no individual receiving privileged information from the NCVA Office. All via email and in writing.

Officials

Officials should contact the NCVA for information. Email is the preferred method of communication for the NCVA.

Sponsors

Partners