Dale Aitcheson, 32, from Nottingham, has become England’s first black FIBA referee.

Dale successfully completed the International Basketball Federation (FIBA)examination clinic last week in Paris, France, and was considered by the panel to be the best candidate at the clinic.

Dale has been moving up the ranks of the NBL/BBL refereeing list in recent years and this season refereed the uni-ball trophy final between London Towers and Manchester Giants at Birmingham on March 18th.

Alan Richardson, Technical Manager at the EBBA commented:

‘The Association are delighted that Dale has not only succeeded in his desire to achieve international status, but also that he will be an excellent role model for the black community.’

And Pat Fairclough OBE, Director, Women of the EBBA and an experienced international table official added:

‘It is a great achievement for Dale. It demonstrates an example of the EBBA implementing their training and education policy for all individuals to reach their goals, regardless of their sex, ethnic origin or background.’

Meanwhile, a delighted Dale said:

‘I am absolutely over the moon and would like to take this opportunity to thank all the people who have helped me to achieve this honour.’

Further details from www.basketballengland.org.uk or from Mark Hannen at the EBBA.