YMCA basketball goes back way beyond tear-away pants and orange slices? In fact, the YMCA was instrumental in the invention of the sport in 1891. In the mid-1970s, when short shorts, high socks and converse were the preferred uniform, the YMCA and the NBA created the Youth Basketball Association (YBA) to organize youth into recreational sports programs that stress skills and teamwork over winning at any cost.
The YMCA has proudly continued that tradition. After over 128 years of youth basketball, the Y knows the big things joining a YMCA youth basketball team can mean for kids on and off the court. YMCA basketball is not just about sharpening shooting skills and making baskets, but about building skills that benefit mind, body and spirit. Participating in team sports when kids are young can build a life full of physical activity, but it also means improved cognitive function and social skills.
Youth Basketball programs include:
Who Is It For?
Beginning players with little to no experience, ready to learn the game in a fun and positive setting!
What Do I Get?
9 practices + 9 games per season (3 month season)
What Is Taught?
Beginner basketball rules and skills such as, ball-handling, passing, lay-ins, proper shooting form, and defensive positioning.
When Is It?
Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall.
Who Is It For?
Players with under 2 years of basketball experience who want to prepare for advanced level basketball.
What Do I Get?
1 practice + 1 game per week
What Is Taught?
Sharpening and advancing of the basketball skills learned in Rookie League, as well as an introduction to the play style, sets, and terminology of advanced teams.
When Is It?
Year-round!
Who Is It For?
Advanced players looking for high level competition against top talent in Southern California.
What Do I Get?
3 practices per week + games on the weekend (typically more than 1) + 1 tournament a month
What Is Taught?
How to compete at the highest level against top competition in Southern California and the west coast.
When Is It?
Year-round!
Who Is It For?
Boys and girls ages 8-14.
What Do I Get?
Group training focusing on overall development and creating a well-rounded basketball skill set.
What Is Taught?
Offensive and defensive basketball techniques and philosophies to ensure a well-rounded basketball skill set that can be incorporated in to any basketball system.
When Is It?
Year-round!
Who Is It For?
Boys and girls ages 6-18.
What Do I Get?
Specialized small group training with other players of similar position, size, and development needs.
What Is Taught?
Instruction specific to the needs of the group. An assessment of the group is made as to where they need to be in the future, and a plan is put in place to reach those development goals.
When Is It?
Year-round!
Who Is It For?
Boys and girls ages 6-18.
What Do I Get?
Individualized training specific tot he players to maximize development.
What Is Taught?
Instruction specific tot he individual. An evaluation of the player will take place during the first training, then a long-term training plan is put in place specific to the individual.
When Is It?
Year-round!
Who Is It For?
Boys and girls ages 10+.
What Do I Get?
Individualized training focusing specifically on shooting repetitions.
What Is Taught?
A shooting plan specific to the individual to ensure maximum repetitions of game situation shots he/she will see in a real game.
When Is It?
Year-round!
