2nd July 2026
Author: Maree DeGeorge
BENDIGO, Victoria, Basketball Victoria is proud to announce the six Victorian referees and referee coaches selected to officiate at the 2026 Under-16 National Championships, taking place in Bendigo from 4th to 12th July 2026.
Hosted at Red Energy Arena, the championships will bring together Australia's most talented Under-16 athletes, coaches and technical officials, with teams from every state and territory competing for national honours across nine days of basketball.
The appointments recognise the commitment, professionalism and consistent high performance these officials have demonstrated throughout the last 12 months, earning them the opportunity to officiate at one of Australia's premier junior basketball events.
2026 Under-16 National Championships Basketball Victoria Technical Officials
Referees
- Cooper Allum
- Corey Akers
- Sarah Shelton
- Shaun Cook
Assistant Commissioner
- Armann Kumruyan
Referee Coach
- Mark Longworth
Technical officials play a vital role in every basketball competition, helping create a fair, safe and enjoyable environment for players, coaches and spectators alike. Selection to the National Championships provides an important recognition of this service, allowing officials to work alongside one another while continuing to build the skills and knowledge required to officiate at the highest level.
Basketball Victoria Technical Officials, Leagues and Competitions Manager Kash Gaitely said selection to a National Championship is a significant milestone in an official's journey.
"Selection to a National Championship is recognition of the exceptional performance, professionalism and commitment these officials have shown throughout the last year," Gaitely said.
"Our Technical Officials all play an essential role in delivering a high-quality competition. The Under-16 National Championships provide a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate and hone their craft alongside some of Australia's most experienced officials while supporting the country's best emerging athletes.
"We are incredibly proud to see six Victorian officials selected for this year's championships. They have earned this opportunity through their dedication to the game, and we are excited to see them continue their development on the national stage."
Basketball Victoria congratulates Cooper Allum, Corey Akers, Sarah Shelton, Shaun Cook, Armann Kumruyan and Mark Longworth on their appointments and wishes them all the very best for the 2026 Under-16 National Championships.
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For Media Enquiries:
Maree DeGeorge
Basketball Victoria
Media & Communications Specialist
maree.degeorge@basketballvictoria.com.au
0499 851 266
