Developing referees -- Brazilian style:

The investment in women referees in Brazil is a program developed by Geraldo Fontana, Referee Coordinator of CBB and FIBA Commissioner, to follow FIBA’s philosophy. FIBA’s plan is to increase the number of women referees throughout the world. And the results are coming. On April 4th and 6th, Andreza Almeida and Flavia Renata Almeida became the first two referees to work together in a game valid for National Championship for Men in Brazil.

“The nomination of Andreza and Renata is part of the program to motivate women to become referees. The goal is to give them experience by acting in games with stronger contact”, explained Geraldo Fontana. “And these games are also useful to practice for further FIBA’s exams. Just a few countries work with women in high level games of men competitions. The development of Andreza and Flávia represent the success of the investments. In 2005, CBB took them both to the School Games, organized by the Brazilian Olympic Committee. Parallel the tournament, CBB had the referee’s camp, which was very productive. This kind of event is a good way to develop leadership, to teach and discover talents. With training and support, Andreza and Flávia will be motivated to improve and invest in their career.”

And yes, I do recognize the conundrum that "plagues" all those involved with developing good, new referees. When they DO get better, they move up the ranks... In the US, "up the ranks" means not only D-II up to D-I, but women's games into men's games (salary/prestige).