Earning a USA Volleyball Junior National referee patch isn’t just a credential—it’s the result of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication. For Naomi Buckwalter, that small patch symbolizes over 1,200 matches officiated, countless miles traveled across 12 states, and nights spent away from her young family. It represents a goal she set years ago and finally achieved, teaching her valuable lessons about resilience and personal growth along the way.
Naomi’s journey into volleyball didn’t start in childhood like many others. She first picked up the sport in college and later went on to coach. Even now, she still enjoys playing. Officiating became a natural progression—another way to stay involved in the game she loves. Transitioning from player to coach to official gave her a deeper understanding of the sport and allowed her to see it from every angle. While she enjoys all aspects of the game, officiating brings its own kind of challenge and fulfillment.
What drives Naomi is simple: the athletes. There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes from being part of a well-run match, where players give their all and walk away with smiles on their faces. Knowing she helped create a positive experience for those athletes—and their families—makes every early morning and long tournament day worth it. For Naomi, the reward also lies in the mental side of the job. Each match presents new situations to adapt to, pushing her to make quick decisions, manage pressure, and refine her craft. The personal growth that comes from that process is something she values deeply, as are the relationships she’s built with fellow officials, coaches, and players.
When it comes to handling unsportsmanlike behavior, Naomi relies on a calm, measured approach. “My primary goal is always to de-escalate situations whenever possible,” says Naomi. A clear verbal warning and a brief explanation often resolve the issue, but if necessary, she isn’t afraid to issue sanctions to uphold fairness and respect on the court. Sometimes, even a look or calm word can be enough to shift the energy. She believes in enforcing rules consistently, while maintaining an environment of professionalism and respect.
There are challenges to the job that many people never see. Maintaining focus for long stretches of time—sometimes over 10 hours in a tournament day—is no small feat. Officials must stay mentally sharp while tracking complex plays, interpreting split-second actions, and managing emotions, both their own and those of others. Competitive settings can get intense, and staying cool under pressure is critical. One of the toughest mental tests is moving past a difficult call quickly and confidently, without letting it affect the rest of the match.
For those interested in officiating, Naomi offers clear advice, “Embrace the learning process, and be patient with yourself.” Developing the right skills and confidence takes time and repetition. She encourages new officials to find a good mentor, ask questions, and seek feedback. Being coach-able and open to constructive criticism can make all the difference. Most of all, she urges aspiring referees to love the game. That passion is what sustains you through the challenges and makes the journey worthwhile.
To Naomi, her Junior National patch isn’t just an accomplishment—it’s a reflection of everything she’s poured into the sport. It marks a new chapter, filled with opportunities to continue growing, giving back, and making an impact on every court she steps onto.
“It’s not just a patch; it’s a testament to personal growth, both as an official and an individual.“
– NAOMI BUCKWALTER
Naomi Buckwalter earned her Junior National Patch at USAV Girls Junior National Championships this past July.