The People Who Make It Happen
Some of the most influential people in a young athlete's life never score a basket.
They're the coaches who celebrate a player's first basket, encourage them after a difficult game, and help them discover they're capable of more than they imagined. They're the referees who teach the game with fairness and confidence. They're the volunteers who quietly make every season possible.
NLBA exists because people choose to invest in young people.
Become a Coach
Every team in NLBA is coached by a parent or community volunteer.
That means every season begins with families stepping forward to make basketball possible for the next generation—and we're always looking for our next great coach.
The good news? You don't need years of basketball experience to make a difference.
Our best coaches aren't necessarily the ones who know the most basketball. They're the ones who encourage, teach, listen, and create an environment where young athletes can learn, grow, and enjoy the game.
Whether you're coaching your child's first season in U7 or mentoring teenagers in U18, you'll have the opportunity to build relationships, watch players grow in confidence, and create memories that last well beyond the final buzzer.
Many of our coaches will tell you they volunteered to help their child—but ended up getting just as much out of the experience themselves.
We'll Help You Succeed
You won't be on your own. NLBA provides:
- Coach orientation and training
- Practice resources and coaching materials
- Mentorship and support throughout the season
- A community of coaches who are happy to share ideas and encouragement
If you've been thinking about coaching, we'd love to hear from you.
Become a Referee
Referees are an important part of every game.
They help athletes learn the rules, compete fairly, and develop respect for the game and one another. They also develop confidence, communication skills, leadership, and decision-making—qualities that serve them well both on and off the court.
Many of our referees begin at 12 years old, making officiating a great first leadership opportunity for young people who enjoy basketball and want to stay involved in the game.
Whether you're a young athlete looking for your first job or an adult who wants to give back to the basketball community, refereeing is a rewarding way to make a difference.
Why Referee?
- Stay involved in the game you love
- Earn money while building valuable life skills
- Develop confidence and leadership
- Give back to younger athletes
- Be part of a supportive officiating community
Training and mentorship are provided, and new referees are supported as they develop their confidence and experience.
