There is no denying women’s college basketball is the hottest topic in sports. Someone who has had a front-row seat to all of the action is NCAA Division I referee Natasha Camy. Camy is a former basketball player who remembers when women’s games were played in front of a handful of fans. Now, games are breaking ticket price records while drawing in more viewers than NBA games. She even got to be a part of history while officiating the Iowa vs. Ohio State game where Caitlin Clark broke Pete Maravich’s college scoring record.
In addition to officiating, Camy is also a team owner of the Cape Town Tigers. Â She is also the founder of Referee Ready Academy where she can share all of her knowledge with a passionate community of basketball officials to empower them. She spoke with us about her basketball journey and her advice for anyone who wants to work in sports.
Where did your love of sports in particular basketball?
My love for sports came from my mom and grandmom. They were both multiple sport athletes growing up so being active and playing a sport was a MUST for me. We watched basketball the most.
What are your thoughts on NIL deals and their impact on growing women’s sports at the collegiate level?
 It has allowed some of our players to bring more exposure to their programs with various partnership interests. More investment in our players and programs allows us to continue to invest into the women’s game!
How do you feel when you see women’s games are selling out?
As a former women’s basketball player and a lifelong fan and as someone whose career is dedicated to women’s basketball – seeing the arenas I used to walk in that was desolate to now be completely filled is inspiring and truly a gift. We’ve come so far and we’re finally seeing some progress from all of us putting our hearts and souls into growing it.
What makes March Madness special compared to other tournaments?
I have worked D1 March Madness four times and what makes it most special is we get to work with officials all across the country and teams we would have never been able to work during our season. It’s the most special time of the year and to have a part of it at all is a true honor.Â
How has your professional career affected your personal life?
The last 10+ years have been an adjustment because you miss birthdays, anniversaries, get-togethers, and sometimes holidays. I’m grateful to my support system who follows my schedule and cheers me on during the winter months. They’re so supportive when I need a pick-me-up on the road. My wife Shavaun has been my rock on these long travel weeks and I’m eternally grateful for the joy our daughter Mahari provides. This job requires a STRONG support system. I’m one of the lucky ones to have one.
Besides reffing, what are your other passions in life?
My other passions in life are cycling, giving back, and building businesses/relationships.
You are also a part owner of the Cape Town Tigers, how did that come to be?Â
I had an opportunity to go to the BAL Finals in Kigali, Rwanda, and help participate as a mentor for BAL 4HeR. It was a life-changing experience. I saw the growth they accomplished in 3 years and the chance to be a part of something special. I met Raphael at an event here in the States and asked what could I do to learn more about being a part of BAL as a whole. He informed me that his team, The Capetown Tigers, was still looking for new investors. My business partner Dr. Tim Vidale jumped at the opportunity and the rest is history as they say!
You created Referee Ready Academy. What made you want to start that and why is it important to you to help the next generation?
I started Referee Ready to give officials a place to grow and learn from more than watching plays. To give them a place for their fears to be expressed and for their wellness to be considered in their training. We have 3 training camps happening this spring in April, May and June with flexible locations, and all aspiring or current referees are encouraged to participate. Registration is open now on our website www.refereeready.com.
What is your best advice for young people who want to work in sports?
My advice to young people who want to work in sports is to believe in and educate yourself. There are endless opportunities to work in this industry and it may not always mean being on the court or on the field, sometimes it’s the individuals behind the scenes who are just as important in making sure things run smoothly. That might be player personnel, marketing, videography and film, for example. So take the time to educate yourself in exactly what it is you want to do, identify your unique skill sets and then believe that you can do it, envision yourself in the role and go for it.
