Download Rules - IBU Handbook in PDF format
The USBA Officials Training and Certification program exists to train volunteers to plan and conduct events. The volunteer official plays a very critical role in the hosting of events and there by in athlete development. While little or no training may be required to assist at events, greater satisfaction is found through an officials training program. The US Biathlon Association has developed a three tiered system of officials certification:

1. Basic
Focuses on developing a basic understanding of the sport and the rules. A great starting place for parents and volunteers alike. The course consists of an open book take home test and a four hour group review of the test. Officials who score at least 80% on the test and participate in the group review are awarded a Silver US Biathlon Officials Pin and Logbook. The Basic Officials Course can be locally organized by approved instructors. Ask at your local Club.

2. Advanced
Open to Basic Officials who have at least two year and four competitions experience and are USBA members. The advanced course is 16 hour - combining theoretical and practical exercises. Normally conduct from Friday evening through Sunday, the course is required to serve in leadership positions within an event organizing committee. A two-hour closed book exam competes the certification. Officials scoring 80% or better are awarded the US Biathlon Gold Officials Pin and a Certificate. The Advanced Officials Course must be organized through the US Biathlon Association and is offered by an instruction-certified IBU International Referee. Clubs and Regional Centers can request an Advanced Officials Course through the USBA office.

3. IBU International Referees (IR)
The US Biathlon Association invites outstanding individuals to attend IR seminars based on nominations from Regional Centers, Clubs and current IRs. Candidates must have at least four years experience as an Advanced Official and must have worked at least four National level events in a leadership position. The USBA will schedule IR Seminars and Exams as needed. Officials scoring 80% on the closed book exam will receive an International Biathlon Union IR pin and licence book.

Additionally, the International Biathlon Union selects IRs to become IBU Technical Delegates (TD). Typically TD candidates have over 12 years experience at the international level. There are currently three TDs in the USA - Alan Nye, Tracy Lamb and Max Cobb.

Administrative Structure and Procedures
Chief of Officials: Alan Nye
Oversees the program from the National level.
Assigns Instructors for Advanced Training Courses.
Works with the USBA office to ensure materials are ready, the database is kept, and officials are recommended for further training.

Regional Lead Instructors:
Rocky Mtn: Bill Freutel
Mid-West: Jack Lang
East: Tracy Lamb
Duties: Work with RCEs and Clubs to evaluate officials training needs and develop a plan.
Confirm Basic Instructors based on recommendations from the RCEs and Clubs.
Provide Basic Instructors with the materials needed to conduct training.
Conducts Advanced Officials Training and Examinations with an Assistant Instructor as requested by the Chief.
Reports results of Officials Training to the USBA Office within one week of the end of course.

Scheduling Procedure
RCEs and Club make a request to the USBA office at least two months prior to the course date.
Requests for programs must be accompanied with:
-list of candidates (min. of ten)
-proposed venue, seating with tables and AV equipment required
-recommended dates for the course
Requests will be responded to within one week after arrival in the office.
Costs of the Instructor¹s travel, lodging, meals, per diem of $100 and materials must be covered by the requesting organization.
Each course attendee must be current USBA Member (the Instructor can collect membership dues on the first day of the course.

USBA Office
Collects requests and contacts the Chief of Officials for action as needed.
Sends course materials to clubs as requested and paid for.
Processes reports from Instructors and updates officials database to track training.
Provides instructional material, officials pins, certificates, and logbooks to instructors as needed.

Coaches Certification Program
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