At just 16 years old, Afeya Maronilla has already established herself as one of the most promising basketball referees in Taguig City. Starting her journey with the Taguig Basketball Officiating Commission (TBOC), Afeya honed her officiating skills by handling competitive games at a young age. Now, with her professional referee license from the Games and Amusements Board (GAB), the official regulatory body for professional sports in the Philippines, she has taken a monumental step forward in her career—proving that age and gender are no barriers to excellence in officiating.
Alongside her 15-year-old sister, Amara, the Maronilla siblings are making waves in the basketball officiating scene. Their father, Allan Maronilla, has played a crucial role in their journey, providing unwavering support and guidance. With his encouragement, Afeya and Amara have pursued their passion for officiating, leading them to opportunities beyond their home city.
GOAL Referees Association: A Training Ground for Excellence
Afeya’s rapid rise in officiating is closely tied to her involvement with the GOAL Referees Association of the Philippines, founded by esteemed PBA referee and NIFA National Commissioner, Jimmy Mariano. This organization focuses on training and developing young referees, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of officiating.
Under the mentorship of Jimmy Mariano and GOAL National Commissioner Meynardo Ballecer, Afeya has been exposed to high-pressure games that have sharpened her judgment, confidence, and decision-making skills. Through intense training sessions, real-game experience, and guidance from seasoned referees, she has refined her officiating abilities, setting an example for other young referees who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Breaking Barriers and Empowering Women in Sports
Despite her young age, Afeya has demonstrated remarkable poise and authority on the court. Whether officiating local tournaments or high-stakes games, she has earned the respect of players, coaches, and fellow referees through her knowledge of the rules, her composure under pressure, and her firm but fair officiating style.
In a field traditionally dominated by men, Afeya is breaking barriers and paving the way for young women in sports leadership. She is proving that officiating is not just about enforcing the rules—it’s about integrity, confidence, and the ability to command the game.
Her journey is a powerful testament to the impact of dedicated mentorship, strong family support, and an unwavering passion for the sport. As she continues to grow in her career, Afeya is more than just a promising young referee—she is an inspiration to aspiring officials, especially young women, who dream of making their mark in basketball officiating.
With the support of her father, the guidance of the GOAL Referees Association, and her relentless drive for excellence, the future looks incredibly bright for Afeya Maronilla. She is not just redefining what it means to be a referee—she is shaping the future of basketball officiating for the next generation.
