The Crown Refs Podcast

Recorded live from CayVision Podcast Studios, episode 400 features Ashley Birch, a driven and inspiring NCAA Division I and NBA G-League official. Born and raised in Kansas City and now based in Dallas, Ashley opens up about her path into officiating after a playing career and a background in tech. Just completed her first season with the G-League, she talks about adapting to the speed, athleticism, and expectations of the men’s pro game, as well as the mental and emotional tools she’s built along the way.This episode offers great value for every official, from the ambitious newcomers to those striving for the highest levels. Ashley discusses how she balances multiple rulebooks, the shift from reffing women’s to men’s games, the power of positive self-talk, and how community and mentorship have shaped her journey. Her story is a testament to belief, grit, and the importance of being a student of the game. 🎙️👟

In Game Notes 043, we sit down with South Dakota official Jesse Stricherz for a reflective and educational IPR breakdown. Jesse, who began officiating at age 15, brings decades of experience and humility to the table as he shares the highs and challenges of managing competitive games. One of the standout moments in this episode is Jesse's discussion around coach interactions, particularly navigating a heated sideline exchange with a calm but firm response. The episode dives deep into his decision-making, signals, positioning, and ability to match the energy of emotional coaches without losing composure—an essential skill for any official climbing the ranks.This episode is a goldmine for officials seeking practical tools and game-ready insights. Topics include anticipating secondary defenders, traveling violations, the art of stepping down, patient whistles, communication cues, crew dynamics, and tactical rotation philosophy. Jesse’s vulnerability and growth mindset shine through, as does our supportive community surrounding him on the call. Whether you’re new to officiating or a seasoned vet, this conversation will leave you feeling more connected to the craft—and inspired to serve the game with purpose.🔗 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣Patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships⁣⁣🛒 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗵 ⁣https://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com⁣⁣🧑‍🎓 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼l⁣https://signalschool.teachable.com/p/signal-school-boot-camp1⁣🎧 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁⁣https://open.spotify.com/show/7Iu3X4rnet8NCgsQfiAu6a⁣

In this episode of the Crown Refs Podcast, we share a powerful conversation originally featured on the Five Tips & Tricks Podcast, where the spotlight is on what it truly takes to grow and thrive as a basketball official. The discussion covers the foundational pillars of officiating development—including mastering the rule book, maximizing game reps, breaking down film, and attending referee camps to accelerate learning. It also explores the current officiating shortage and the critical role that mentorship and community support play in both retention and advancement.Listeners will hear how a commitment to growth and a passion for service led to the creation of a global network focused on education, accountability, and professional development. The episode goes beyond mechanics and play-calling, highlighting the character-building aspects of officiating and the purpose-driven mindset required to excel in the craft. Whether you’re just getting started or already deep in your journey, this conversation reinforces the power of staying connected to a community that supports your evolution every step of the way.🔗 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣Patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships⁣⁣🛒 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗵 ⁣https://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com⁣⁣🧑‍🎓 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼l⁣https://signalschool.teachable.com/p/signal-school-boot-camp1⁣🎧 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁⁣https://open.spotify.com/show/7Iu3X4rnet8NCgsQfiAu6a⁣

In this episode of the Crown Refs Podcast, we explore the journey from our inception to becoming a thriving community for basketball officials. The narrative begins before 2018, detailing the launch of inaugural show, "The Basketball Shop," co-hosted by Mr. Pink. It then delves into the introduction of the Individual Performance Report (IPR) service—a film review and game breakdown offering—that provides officials with invaluable feedback to enhance their skills.We share insights about the organic growth of the Crown Refs community, particularly through the launch on the Patreon platform in 2021. This initiative fostered a network of like-minded, dedicated, and passionate basketball officials united by shared values. The episode underscores the importance of adding individuals who embody these principles, contributing to an enriching and empowering environment. Additionally, it highlights the latest chapter in the Crown Refs story: the introduction of in-person skill development clinics, set to commence on April 12, 2025, with plans for monthly clinics throughout the spring. These clinics aim to further support officials in their continuous pursuit of excellence.🔗 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣Patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships⁣⁣🛒 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗵 ⁣https://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com⁣⁣🧑‍🎓 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼l⁣https://signalschool.teachable.com/p/signal-school-boot-camp1⁣⁣🎧 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁⁣https://open.spotify.com/show/7Iu3X4rnet8NCgsQfiAu6a⁣

In this episode of The Dialed In Podcast, Paul and Marc continue their mission of inspiring transformation and optimization. Marc dives deep into his journey through fitness, nutrition, and movement training, sharing key insights on nutrient timing, gut health, and aligning your habits with your goals. His practical tips provide a relatable and motivating perspective on staying consistent—even through challenges like the holiday season.This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to clean up their diet, as Paul and Marc break down the long list of additives, emulsifiers, dyes, artificial colors, fillers, and other synthetic ingredients that are hiding in everyday foods. They also tackle essential mindset shifts—reframing thoughts for positivity and empowerment—and discuss how intentional habits can help spread joy.If you’re ready to elevate your health, cut out the junk, and take control of your well-being, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to help you move forward.🚀 Your wellness breakthrough starts here. Let’s get Dialed In!

In this episode of the Crown Refs Podcast, we sit down with Austin Ardrey, also known as the Runnin Ref, to dive into the intersection of fitness, officiating, and performance training. Austin is a former strength and conditioning coach at the collegiate level who transitioned into working with officials to help them stay injury-free, mobile, and game-ready. Through his Runnin Ref training programs, he provides sport-specific strength and conditioning for basketball, football, and soccer officials, tailoring workouts to meet the unique demands of officiating. Austin shares his personal fitness routine, daily discipline, and how he balances strength training, mobility, and nutrition to optimize performance on and off the court.Key takeaways from this conversation include injury prevention strategies, the importance of mobility, pregame and postgame routines, and how fitness plays a crucial role in officiating longevity. We also discuss the common mistakes officials make in their training, how to build a sustainable fitness routine, and what every official should be doing to improve their movement and durability. Whether you’re looking to enhance your physical fitness as an official or gain insights into how movement training can transform your game, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Thank you for listening to the Crown Refs Podcast—the audio experience for basketball officials. 🔗 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣Patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships⁣⁣🛒 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗵 ⁣https://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com⁣⁣🧑‍🎓 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼l⁣https://signalschool.teachable.com/p/signal-school-boot-camp1⁣⁣🎧 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁⁣https://open.spotify.com/show/7Iu3X4rnet8NCgsQfiAu6a⁣

In the inaugural episode of The Dialed In Podcast, hosts Paul Diasparra and Marc Vaccaro take you on an inspiring journey through Paul’s remarkable awakening to wellness. After years of average and inconsistent progress, Paul shares the pivotal moment that transformed his health and mindset forever. Together, they unpack the exact steps Paul took to overhaul his approach to food with clean eating, the foundational role of gut health, and the game-changing effectiveness of a high-protein diet. Marc doesn’t just bring his expertise in movement training—he’s also an authority on nutrition and cleanly sourced ingredients. He offers invaluable insights into identifying and avoiding synthetic ingredients and how they impact overall wellness. The conversation deepens with a discussion on intermittent fasting, exploring how it not only redefined Paul’s relationship with food but also enhanced his energy levels, focus, and daily rhythm. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Paul’s Awakening: The pivotal day Paul realized the need for change and the steps he took to transform his life. Gut Health is the Key: Why gut health is the foundation of overall wellness and how to optimize it. Unmasking Ingredients: The hidden dangers of synthetic additives—like seed oils, preservatives, and processed sugars—and why eliminating them matters. Protein-Powered Energy: How a high-protein diet delivers sustained energy and helps you feel unstoppable. Sourcing Smarter: The transformative impact of cleaner, better-sourced foods on your health and happiness. The Power of Intermittent Fasting: How fasting resets your approach to food, strengthens your willpower, and creates a healthier relationship with eating. This episode isn’t just inspiring—it’s actionable. If you’re ready to elevate your energy, enhance your happiness, and transform your life through simple yet powerful changes, Marc & Paul’s journey together will resonate deeply. Your wellness breakthrough starts here. Let’s get dialed in! Follow The Dialed In Podcast: Instagram: @DialedInPodcast TikTok: @DialedInPodcast Facebook: Dialed In Podcast YouTube: Dialed In Podcast Channel Bonus Resource: Download Paul's Clean Eating Food List to jumpstart your journey: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ev4-sCEQ2yRpIaq7RAnUDlDrHxDVABDw/view?usp=drivesdk

Penny Davis is the NCAA Women's National Coordinator of Officiating for divisions 1, 2, & 3, a position she's held since 2019.  Before that, she had an incredible 17-year division career working in such conferences as the Pac 12, West Coast, Mountain West, Western Athletic, & the Big Sky.Penny is also fortunate enough to be in a select group of officials who have worked multiple NCAA Final Fours earning her way to the last weekend of the year in 2015 & 2018.  On top of her outstanding college career, she also spent time in the WNBA and the D-League (now the G-League.)In this episode, we covered a lot from Penny's early beginnings to how she rose to become a final four official, her rocky first year as coordinator in a pandemic year, the importance of relationships, and some financial tips for officials.  We are super grateful to have Penny on the podcast and we hope you enjoy this episode. 

Join us as we celebrate six incredible years of podcasting and reflect on the highlights of 2024! This year has been monumental for Crown Refs, with the expansion of our global officiating community, the launch of our merch shop, and the debut of our online course designed to elevate the game for officials everywhere.This episode features moments with some of the best in the game, including Jason Phillips, Clarence Armstrong, Sylvia Biggett, Kenny Widgeon, Randy McCall, Sampson Brue, Gerry Pollard, Brian Neale, Jess Smith, Ajay Gonnelli, Gary Vee, and, of course, the incredible Crown Refs Community.Looking ahead to 2025, we’re excited to announce Dialed In, a brand-new health and wellness podcast born from the Crown Refs community. My partner, Marc Vaccaro, and I are on a mission to bring the same passion and value to human health and happiness as we’ve done for basketball officials.🔗 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣Patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships⁣⁣🛒 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗵 https://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com⁣⁣🧑‍🎓 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼lhttps://signalschool.teachable.com/p/signal-school-boot-camp1⁣

Welcome to this episode of Vincent's Verifications! Vincent Garrett, a hungry first-year official with many questions and a burning desire to learn the right way. Vincent's eagerness to grasp the nuances of the game is truly inspiring, and this episode promises to be a treasure trove of insights for officials at all levels.⁣⁣In this engaging session, we cover a wide range of important topics based on Vincent's excellent questions. We discuss travels, loose ball plays, discerning contact, and hand checking. We also explore issues related to player conduct, game safety, and the best approaches for skill improvement, such as attending relevant camps and utilizing online resources.⁣⁣Big learning insights from this episode include the importance of clear communication on the court, the value of self-evaluation through game footage, and the benefits of positive self-talk. Vincent learns how to handle high-pressure situations, improve signal clarity, and apply context in making decisions about violations. As next steps, Vincent will follow up with coaches to obtain game film for critique, prepare to film his own games, attend camp, and utilize the rapid response folder on Patreon for learning appropriate responses to coaches. This episode highlights Vincent's commitment to excellence and provides valuable lessons for all aspiring officials.⁣⁣👉 Join the Crown Refs Community: ⁣patreon.com/CrownRefs/memberships⁣⁣🛒 Shop the Crown Refs Merch Store: ⁣crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com⁣

In this episode, we are thrilled to introduce Mikaiya, whose tenacity for growth and improvement has motivated her to pursue excellence in officiating. We were excited to meet her for the first time during this call, as she recently signed up for the Crown Refs 1-1 tier on Patreon. Mikaiya's dedication to enhancing her skills and knowledge is truly inspiring, and we are honored to be part of her journey. In this insightful session, Mikaiya delves into several important topics that are crucial for any aspiring referee. We discussed effective positioning techniques, the importance of maintaining a strong vocal presence, and strategies for managing game flow and player interactions. Mikaiya's questions led to deep dives into practical tips for handling high-pressure situations and improving signal clarity. Throughout our conversation, some big learning insights emerged, including the significance of continuous self-assessment and the value of constructive feedback from mentors. Mikaiya's commitment to honing her craft exemplifies the spirit of Crown Refs, and her journey offers valuable lessons for officials at all levels. This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring moments that highlight the importance of perseverance and a growth mindset in officiating. 👕👚 Crown Refs Merch Shop https://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com/ 🤝🏡 Join the Crown Refs Community patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships

We are excited to welcome Brian Kenney, a wonderful human being with a rich and diverse background. Brian is a former Division I official, a current JUCO and high school assignor, a retired special education teacher, and the owner of a successful team-building company. Brian, who is also an author, discusses his latest book, "Figuring It Out: A Youth Guide to Navigating Life's Construction Curves," available on Amazon. The book delves into personal development and overcoming life's challenges, inspired by the story of a young double amputee. Brian shares his multifaceted journey, offering valuable insights into the importance of mentorship, talent development, and fostering a growth mindset.Throughout the episode, Paul and Brian explore various topics, including the significance of video analysis in officiating camps, the power of community engagement, and the role of family involvement in refereeing. Brian's emphasis on slowing down and improving communication with the table and coaches provides practical advice for officials at all levels. The discussion also touches on Brian's personal struggles with gambling addiction and his commitment to helping others navigate similar challenges through his writing and mentoring. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the therapeutic benefits of challenging oneself and the importance of maintaining a positive presence in their communities.📖 Figuring it Out: A Youth Guide to Navigating Lifes Construction Curves to Build Your Best Life https://a.co/d/eXgsiRc👚👕 Crown Refs Merch Shophttps://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com🤝🔗 Join the Crown Refs CommunityPatreon.com/crownrefs/memberships

In this episode of the Crown Refs Podcast as we sit down with NCAA men’s official Clarence Armstrong. Clarence, a former standout basketball player and all-time leading scorer at ChiChester High School, went on to play four years at Drexel University before transitioning to officiating in 1999. Reaching the Division 1 level in 2008, Clarence now works in 13 conferences and has officiated in multiple NCAA tournaments. A proud father and dedicated mentor, Clarence shares his incredible journey from being a player who disliked referees to becoming one of the most respected officials in the game.Mr. Armstrong delves into various aspects of his officiating career, offering invaluable insights and tips. We discuss the importance of building rapport with players, using proactive communication, and the role of preventative officiating. Clarence shares his experiences with handling mistakes, maintaining physical fitness, and the benefits of attending teaching camps. He emphasizes the significance of mentorship, clear communication when reporting fouls, and staying true to oneself at officiating camps. Whether you’re an experienced official or just starting out, Clarence’s passion, dedication, and practical advice will inspire and guide you in your officiating journey.🔗 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣Patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships⁣⁣🛒 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽⁣https://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com⁣⁣🧑‍🎓 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹: 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽⁣https://signalschool.teachable.com/p/signal-school-boot-camp1

In this insightful episode we welcome Duane Jourdeans, an expert in emotional intelligence and positive psychology, to explore the critical role of emotional intelligence (EI) in the realm of officiating and beyond.⁣ ⁣ Dwayne has spent 29 years in education, coaching, and consulting with organizations like the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Positive Coaching Alliance and more. He introduces the concept of EI, defining it as the ability to understand, manage, and utilize emotions effectively in various situations.⁣ ⁣ This episode emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, empathy, authenticity, emotional reasoning, self-management, and inspiring performance. We participated in a detailed self-assessment, to identify areas for improvement and offering practical strategies to enhance EI.⁣ ⁣ Key learning insights include:⁣ ⁣ •The impact of positive and negative emotions on performance and well-being.⁣ •Strategies for improving self-awareness and managing emotions in high-pressure situations.⁣ •The significance of positive relationships and engagement in fostering a thriving environment.⁣ •Practical tips for recognizing and inspiring performance in others, particularly in the context of officiating.⁣ ⁣ Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of EI and actionable steps to incorporate these principles into their personal and professional lives, ultimately becoming more effective and emotionally intelligent officials and individuals.⁣ ⁣ 🤝 Join our Community⁣ 🔗 patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships

In this episode of "Crown Refs," we sit down with Quincy Smith, a remarkable 15-year-old basketball official from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Quincy shares his journey into officiating, balancing his roles as a player in both basketball and football, and his aspirations to officiate at the college or professional level.⁣ ⁣ Quincy reflects on being inspired by young officials the impact of his mentors, who’ve helped connect him with the Minneapolis board. He talks about the challenges of starting officiating at a young age, the support he received, and how he quickly moved up from YMCA games to more competitive settings.⁣ ⁣ Quincy discusses his first officiating camp, emphasizing the importance of feedback, projecting confidence through his voice, and learning the value of a patient whistle. He shares insights into mentoring relationships that have helped him grow both on and off the court.⁣ ⁣ Quincy's story is a testament to dedication, passion, and community support in achieving one's goals. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the bright future of basketball officiating and the young talent shaping the game.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣