Foothill Youth Basketball

Player Commitment & Requirements

This applies to only Boys divisions (3rd-8th grade)

At Foothill FYB, we strive to have all players have a positive experience learning the game of basketball. Our goal is to create a competitive playing experience that will challenge kids with different skill levels. The league every year has to turn away many players because of overwhelming demand. We try to accommodate as many kids into the league as possible, but limited gym space within our section boundaries limits how many kids can be enrolled in the league. That being said, it is important that parents and players understand that there will be some minimum qualifications that will be taken in account when evaluating players ability, in particular at the 3/4 grade level. Parents, we ask that prior to enrolling your player, you review this criteria and assess your players's ability to determine if this is the right level for your player.

  • Commitment: We recognize that many kids have additional commitments (school, scouts, other sports) and we understand the commitment needed for these activities. Because we turn away a number of players, we ask that if your player cannot commit to at least 75% of games (6 out of 8 games; plus end of season tournament) and 80% of practices that FYB may not be right for that particular season.
  • Playing Experience: We welcome all levels of basketball experience, but to ensure a positive experience for your player, please note the following:
    • 3rd-4th Grade: At least 1 or 2 seasons of recreational basketball (such as Y-Ball)
    • 5th-8th Grade: At least 1 or 2 seasons of advanced basketball (such as AAU or NJB)

    Recreational basketball sets up a foundation that that will be enhanced by playing in FYB. In addition, there are many local camps and private lessons that one may consider as well to prepare your child for the season and evaluations. If this is your players first team sports experience, we recommend looking at other recreational leagues prior to enrolling in FYB.

    The increased level of competition will require a higher grasp of key fundamental aspects of basketball. A detailed list of those skills are reviewed below. In addition, Foothill Youth Basketball will be offering clinics to all players that are highly recommended to build the foundational basketball skills needed for Foothill Youth Basketball.

  • Ball handling:
    • 3rd-4th Grade: Player has the ability to dribble the length of the basketball court with their strong hand while minimizing looking at the basketball while dribbling.
    • 5th-8th Grade: Player has the ability to dribble the length of floor using both dominant and off-hand, can make dribbling basketball moves (cross-over, behind the back, etc.), all while minimizing looking at the basketball.
  • Shooting:
    • 3rd-4th Grade: Player has the ability while shooting from 8-12 feet to consistently hit the rim/backboard. In addition, it shows that they can make at least 30% (3 out 10 shots) from 8-12 feet.
    • 5th-8th Grade: Player has the ability while shooting from 10-15 feet to consistently hit the rim/backboard. In addition, it shows that they can make at least 50% (5 out 10 shots) from 10-15 feet.
  • Lay-ups:
    • 3rd-4th Grade: Player has the ability while shooting a lay-up to consistently use the backboard. In addition, shows that they can make at least 60% (6 out 10 lay-ups) with a dominant hand from either side of the rim.
    • 5th-8th Grade: Player has the ability while shooting a lay-up to consistently use the backboard. In addition, shows that they can make at least 70% (7 out 10 lay-ups) with a dominant hand from either side of the rim.
  • Basketball Concepts:
    • 3rd-4th Grade: Players can demonstrate understanding of key concepts needed for basketball development, 1) Footwork, 2) Shooting form, 3) Defense Concept (Man to Man or Zone), 4) Passing (chest pass and bounce pass), 5) Passing and cutting, 6) Jump Stops. These are a few of the core concepts that will be expected from the players during the season.
    • 5th-8th Grade: In addition to the prior listed concepts, 5th grade and above players should demonstrate these additional concepts: 1)Screening, 2) Full Court/Pressure Man-to-Man Defense, 3) Set Plays for offense/out of bounds, 4) Press Concepts (offense & defense), 5) Help defense.