The return was achieved thanks to two local referees who have given up part of their time by sharing the referee roster, with the women still faced with a hefty fine for not being able to supply one full-time referee, required by NSW Basketball.

Basketball NSW requires associations to nominate two referees per team.

This year will see the Senior League Men's team terminate for the season.

Despite having enough numbers their nomination was rejected by Basketball NSW due to not meeting referee requirements.

Lithgow Basketball Association president Richard Marjoram said many resources and other associations were asked if they had spare referees but there was no luck.

"No one is available. A number of Western Associations also nominated but were unsuccessful also," he said.

He hoped the referee situation could be solved this year so the men could return for the 2021 season.

"Something we need to try and get running this year is building on our senior referees so we can get the men back into State League.

"Regional basketball is struggling without referees. Not being able to get refs for the country associations is a major problem and needs to be fixed," Marjoram said.

As for the ladies, Marjoram said he was excited they have been able to make a return.

"Fifteen years ago the women that played in the team were some of the strongest in the state.

"I'm just hoping it's not a one year wonder," he said.

He also said there were plenty of talented girls coming through the juniors.

The ladies coach is unknown for the time being with the association set to hold their Annual General Meeting on Monday, February 3 at 7pm in the stadium.

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Four Directors positions will also be opening up. Anyone wishing to apply must nominate by Monday, January 27 and sent to Returning Officer , Lithgow Basketball Assoc; PO Box 174 Lithgow 2790.

Lithgow Basketball will also have eight Junior teams turning out for Lazers in 2020; 4 Girls and 4 Boys. in the Western Waratah League, first games mid February.

Junior muster days for the junior competition will be held at the Lithgow Basketball stadium on the following dates at 4.00pm until 5.00pm.

Age groups include U10s,12s, 14s, 16s and 18s.

All players will have to register and pay game fees to play in the junior competition and Active Kids Vouchers are accepted.

Playing singlets will be supplied by the association.

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