Referee

The World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters are the originators of dynamic basketball style athletes with unmatched skills who have influenced the game for nearly a century. Since 1926, they’ve performed their iconic brand of basketball in 124 countries across six continents and are proud members of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Their mission is to advance the game and deliver exciting, interactive entertainment to fans around the world.

The Harlem Globetrotters International, Inc. is a subsidiary of Herschend Enterprises, the largest family-owned themed entertainment company in the U.S. For nearly six decades, Herschend has focused on Creating Memories Worth Repeating®, providing immersive, family-centered entertainment experiences across its award-winning parks and attractions.

The Referee plays a critical role in delivering a safe, entertaining, and high-quality game experience. This position ensures fair play, maintains game flow, supports player and guest safety, and contributes to the overall show atmosphere through strong communication, presence, and professionalism. The referee partners closely with players, coaches, and production teams to uphold HGI standards and create memorable moments for fans.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

The Referee is a key performer in our live basketball entertainment experience. This role blends traditional officiating with showmanship, comedic timing, and dynamic interaction with players and fans. The referee ensures safe, fast-paced gameplay while contributing to the overall story, energy, and excitement of every show.

• Officiate games using Harlem Globetrotter rules while supporting scripted and improvised entertainment moments.
• Demonstrate strong stage presence, comedic instincts, and crowd-engaging performance skills.
• Partner with players and production teams to deliver a seamless, high-energy show.
• Maintain game flow, safety, and fair play, adjusting quickly to performance cues.
• Participate in rehearsals, pre-show briefings, and any storyline or choreography elements.
• Interact with fans in a fun, family-friendly manner that enhances the show experience.
• Pack, load, and secure all practice and game equipment following each event or activity.
• Keep an accurate inventory of all player/staff apparel/game gear and report weekly to the tour manager and VP of Operations.
• Clean and care for all show and game gear after each event, including uniforms and mascot costumes, ensuring everything is performance ready.
• Perform equipment loading and unloading duties to ensure all gear is properly transported for practices, games, and events.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Qualifications:

• Prior officiating, sports management, or game operations experience.
• Strong knowledge of basketball rules and mechanics.
• Strong personality, confidence, and comfort performing in front of large crowds.
• Ability to move athletically on the court while executing performance beats.
• Clear, commanding communication and comedic timing.
• Strong stage presence with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Self-disciplined with strong work ethic
• Fast learner and team player with a positive attitude
• Able to travel, work nights/weekends, and adapt to a fast-changing show environment.
• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Joining the Harlem Globetrotters means becoming part of a legendary brand with nearly a century of history and impact. As our Referee, you won’t just be officiating a show you will be traveling the world, performing in front of thousands of fans, and sharing the spotlight with world-class athletes and entertainers. Every night, you will help create unforgettable memories for families, inspire laughter and joy, and carry forward the legacy of one of the most iconic names in sports and entertainment.

As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feel welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect.