Can anyone try out?
Try-outs for the Hornets (Boys & Girls) are open to anyone registered in the GBA. Interest levels, availability of coaches, and availability of gym time shapes all of our programs. There is a $25 non-refundable tryout fee payable upon registration, for all levels.
What is the commitment expected?
Teams practice two or three times each week at gym locations in and around the Goulbourn area (West Ottawa, Stittsville, Richmond, Munster, and Kanata). In addition, there are Saturdays/Sundays throughout the season where the team will play two games against other local Rep teams. These "tri-meet" games require a half-day commitment. League games are usually played on week nights at gym locations determined by the EOBA.
You can also expect 3-6 tournaments a season, depending on the season plan for each team. The number of tournaments is decided by the coaches in consultation with parents.
It is also expected that all Rep teams participate in the Basketball Ontario Provincial Championships.
Parental involvement is central to a smooth season. Volunteers will be required to act as Manager, Trainer, Scorers, Time Keepers, Canteen work, etc.. All parents are expected to be a big part of the team infrastructure.
How much does it cost?
In addition to the registration fee and tryout fee, each team will set an amount to cover costs of items such as tournament entrance fees, referee fees, Ontario Cup registration fee, etc.. Typical amounts range from $150 per player to $400 per player (some teams may be higher due to a significant number of tournaments). Each team may decide to hold fund raising activities to help offset costs. There are also additional costs associated with travel to away tournaments.
How long is the season?
Tryouts begin in early September and the season can run into late spring. Provincial Championships for older groups are held in May.
How are potential players evaluated during try-outs?
All players at all levels are evaluated by a team of 3-4 people. These are the two coaches at the level (where applicable), assistant coaches (if they are non-parent coaches), former coaches, and basketball experts from the community.
Players are evaluated on a combination of athletic and basketball skills appropriate to their level, as well as game situations (assessed through scrimmages). Coachability is also important (do they listen well, do they interact with other players well, do they communicate well).
Is there a guarantee of playing time?
This is a competitive basketball program. There are playing time rules for the Novice and Atom level that require equal participation except during the last four minutes. At all other levels, playing time is at the discretion of the coach. However, the GBA encourages coaches to develop all the players they select to their teams.
