Brookings Basketball Association

3rd – 4th Grade Developmental League and Travel Policy

(Approved 11-14-24)

 

The Brookings Basketball Association (BBA) program is designed to give players the ability to develop skills, experience, knowledge, and a passion for the game of basketball. All BBA players must attend the Brookings School District or a private/homeschool in the Brookings community.

BBA Developmental League

All players in 3rd & 4th grades will practice with their respective grade levels and play in developmental league games in Brookings. The BBA prides itself on being a community basketball organization that provides opportunities for all players from Brookings.

  • Development league teams are split evenly among BBA players and playing time is equal.
  • Teams are made by the coaches and may change throughout the season.
  • Developmental league dates and schedule will be provided after the season begins.
  • These games are included in the price of registration. There is no extra cost.

Player and Parent Commitment

  • Registration opens approximately September 15th of each year. The registration fee is non-refundable once a player begins practice with their respective team.
  • Practices will be held up to two times a week based on gym availability. The practice schedule is available online prior to registration. Players are not required to practice during Christmas break, but coaches may schedule optional practices as they deem necessary through the BBA.

Coaches

The BBA is a parent-run organization and requires that parents volunteer to coach their respective teams. Coaches are chosen based on availability, commitment, and experience. Coaches are required to do a background check prior to coaching. All coaches are expected to develop their teams and adhere to the objectives and philosophies of the BBA and Brookings High School coaches.

Equipment

The BBA provides each team with equipment needed for the season. Shoes, basketballs, and other apparel are purchased by each player and family. Uniform tops are required to be tucked in at all times. Uniforms can be worn to practices, games and school events that showcase the basketball program.

Team Objectives and Playing Requirements

In addition to previous mentioned commitments for players and parents, it is understood that the objective is to develop basketball skills and knowledge of the game under the following guidelines:

  • Each player who attends practice regularly and puts forth the effort expected by the BBA and their respective coaches will earn playing time to develop their skills on the basketball court.
  • Expectations from the BBA and the Coaches will be communicated to the players and parents prior to, or at the first practice. This includes the coach’s plans for creating skills-based teams for the purpose of playing in games.
  • Each player is part of a team that represents the BBA and the community of Brookings. It is the expectation that all players, parents, and coaches follow the BBA code of conduct.
  • It is our goal to develop every player to have the ability to dribble, pass, and shoot/score from all areas of the basketball court.
  • Coaches, players, parents, and family members are expected to always maintain a positive attitude. Coaches are volunteers dedicated to the development of basketball skills within a team concept. No college scholarships will be awarded during the season.
  • Should a player demonstrate unsportsmanlike conduct on the court towards the opposing team or his/her own teammates or coaches, get into foul trouble during the game, or receive an injury during a game, at the coach's discretion, a player may see less playing time than noted above.
  • The BBA or Coaches reserve the right to sit a player out a game(s) or tournament(s) for conduct or actions detrimental to their team or the BBA.

Additional Tournaments

Additional tournaments beyond the BBA Development League are optional and intended for players ready for the next level of competition.

  • Please consider your child’s effort, attitude, ability, coachability, and commitment level when signing up for the tournaments as these games will be much more competitive.
  • Competing at an appropriate level supports a child’s development. If competing at a significant difference in competitive level, it can discourage them from the game of basketball.
  • A conversation with your child’s coach may help you know whether your child is ready. Not all players are ready for additional tournaments at this age.

If you decide to sign up for additional tournaments, please be mindful of the following:

  • Tournaments are an additional cost to the players and families at $20 per tournament. Any remaining money will be donated to the Brookings Basketball Association.
  • Tournaments for 3rd grade will likely begin in January. 4th grade travel tournaments begin in December.
  • The tournament schedule will be selected by the BBA and coaches.
  • BBA encourages five tournaments for 4th grade and three tournaments for 3rd
  • Playing time for tournaments is equal for the first 2/3 of the game and the final 1/3 of the game the teams will be playing to win.
  • Fourth-grade parents should notify the head coach at the beginning of the season if they believe their child is interested and ready to participate in tournaments. Third-graders should notify their head coach by December. There are no tryouts at the 3rd and 4th grade level.
  • Tournament travel requires additional commitment from the player and parents. Tournaments are above and beyond the developmental league games that will be on other weekends during the BBA season.