The BVI B/Ball Federation referees came out for the playoffs in the Federation's league. From Left to right, Roger A.L. Williams aka 'Malt Man', Yulissa Hurtado and Shem Ollieverre. Photo: VINO Team of Reporters

The basketball federation took a blow with the absence of the referees but things are now back to normal with their return. Photo: VINO/File

Since the 2017 BVIBF started on June 10, 2017, there has been a boycott from  the referees headed by Mr Norval A. Young and his crew over money owed and lack of communication by both sides.

Mr Young and his crew, which includes referees  like Neil J. Thomas, Roger A. L. Williams aka 'Malt Man', Derwin  Scatliffe, Yulissa Hurtado and Shem Ollieverre among others, had refused to officiate  in the 2017 season until more monies owed were paid.

It forced the BVIBF to make alternative arrangements during the regular season, at times having players in the same division refereeing games which some teams and players suggest could be a conflict of interest.

Referees are back for playoffs

However, after much backdoor communication and negotiations, the Referees returned to the court after it was reported that the Federation paid some of the money owed and with a promise to continue paying on the outstanding balance.

The referees returned to the basketball court last evening July 26, 2017 for the start of the BVIBF 2017 Playoffs, after they reached a “collective bargaining agreement”, according to persons with information on the matter.

The standoff had resulted in the cancellation of one of the biggest games on July 8, 2017 between the then two most competitive undefeated teams, Tortola's Legs and Virgin Gorda's Mystics, which caused fans to be angry. 

With the return of the regular referees headed by Mr. Young, it is expected that the Federation playoffs will run smoothly.  However, there were mixed reviews of the efforts of the alternative referees that included players, coaches, and a team manager. 

Playoff games continue this weekend

Meanwhile, playoff games in the Federation League will continue this weekend from July 28, 2017 to July 30, 2017, at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, in Road Town.

Friday 28, July 2017: 6:00 PM - Jr East vs Mavs, 7:30 PM - Mega Guns vs Legs.

Saturday 29, July 2017:  6:00 PM - And One vs Jr Mystics, 7:30 PM - Go Hard vs Mystics

9:00 PM - Jr East vs Mavs, 10:30 PM -Mega Guns vs Legs.

Sunday 30, July 2017: 6:00 PM - And One vs Jr. Mystics, 7:30 PM - Go Hard vs Mystics 9:00 PM - Jr East vs Mavs, 10:30- PM Mega Guns vs Legs.