Basketball SA launches SA first Warning Card System to improve sideline behaviour for 2026 District Season & State Championships
Basketball South Australia has today announced a major update to its Behaviour Management Framework, introducing an SA first trial of a new Warning Card System for the 2026 District Season aimed at strengthening positive spectator behaviour and increasing enjoyment of one of the states favourite games for all.
The vast majority of spectators across South Australia already set a positive standard for the game. The introduction of the Warning Card System builds on this culture, providing a clear, consistent and visible process to support respectful behaviour, protect referees, and enable early intervention before issues escalate.
“Basketball is the greatest sport in the world and should be safe, respectful and enjoyable for everyone in the venue, on the court and in the stands,” said Tim Brenton, CEO of Basketball South Australia.
“The Warning Card System we are implementing provides our staff with a clear and consistent process to set expectations, support our referees and address behaviour early, before it escalates,” Brenton added.
Recent referee feedback highlighted the need for stronger, more consistent sideline behavioural tools across our competitions, with feedback stating:
This tool and framework are about protecting our sport, supporting players, officials, coaches, and the volunteers who make basketball possible.
How the Warning Card System Works
Basketball SA District Clubs play a critical role in this SA-first initiative.
Clubs are key partners in setting the standard to:
“This will be introduced as a pilot in 2026, informed by outcomes observed throughout the season. Basketball South Australia has zero tolerance for anyone communicating with referees in a negative or intimidating manner, particularly given that many referees are children and young people. Our aim is to reduce poor behaviour and strengthen positive spectator culture while reinforcing our sport as the safest in Australia,” Brenton concluded.
Following Club Communication packs being delivered to Clubs, Eastern Mavericks Club President, Dan Wray, commented:
“The Eastern Mavericks Basketball Club fully support the introduction of the Warning Card System by Basketball SA. Our club community is always behind moves that set clear expectations and provide tools to address poor behaviour, and this initiative delivers exactly that. We want our players, coaches, referees and families to feel safe and respected at every game. The Warning Card System gives everyone a fair, transparent process and reinforces the kind of culture we’re proud to stand behind,”said Wray, President, Eastern Mavericks.
Basketball SA will remain committed to supporting staff, officials and referees, and to ensuring that our game environment is safe, welcoming and fun for our entire community. We all play a role in setting the standard, cheering loudly and acting respectfully.
