When will coaches contact me and how are teams formed?

Every child will be placed on a team after our coaches' meetings. For the 4U, 6U, and 8U divisions, coaches will meet on December 18th at 5:30 PM to receive their rosters (this meeting is for coaches only). For the 11U and 14U divisions, coaches will meet on December 19th, and players will be drafted by their coaches. Coaches will contact parents shortly after the meetings to provide team details.

Can I request a specific coach or teammate for my child?

While we do not accept specific coach requests, if you are a bronze, silver, gold, or platinum sponsor, and the coach agrees, we can place your child on that coach’s team. Additionally, each coach is allowed to select one protected child, which is usually their own child, but it does not have to be.

What should my child wear to practice and games?

Players should wear athletic clothes and basketball shoes (highly recommended but not required). Comfortable, activewear is key to ensuring your child can move freely during practices and games.

When and where are the basketball games held?

All basketball games will be played on Saturday mornings from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The locations include:

• Shafter High School Old Gym
• Shafter Activity Center (Blue Gym)
• Maple School Gymnasium (Possibly)

The game schedule with specific times and locations will be provided once teams are formed.

When will we know about the practice schedule and game details?

Coaches will provide practice schedules once teams are formed. Please check in with your coach for specific times. Be sure to stay updated by following us on Instagram at @shafter_rec for any important announcements, game schedules, and updates.

Is there a code of conduct for parents and players?

Yes, all parents and players are required to sign a Zero Tolerance Policy at the time of registration. This policy promotes good sportsmanship, positive behavior, and respect for others. Negative behavior is not tolerated, and we ask all families to support the integrity of the league.

What if my child will miss a practice or game?

We understand that life happens! If your child is going to miss a practice or game, please communicate with your coach as soon as possible. You can also contact us directly at 661- 746-3303 if there are any concerns. We strive to work with families to ensure continued participation in the program, but please keep the lines of communication open.

Are there snacks provided at practice or games?

Coaches typically create a snack list, where players take turns bringing a drink or snack for the team. This is a fun way for families to contribute to the team experience and build camaraderie among the players.

Are there volunteer opportunities for parents?

Yes! We are always looking for volunteer coaches, referees, and scorekeepers. If you’re interested in volunteering, please reach out to your child’s coach or our office. We can provide a Volunteer Coach’s Packet and help you get Live Scan certified so you can volunteer. Your involvement helps make the season even more rewarding for the kids!

Will there be any special tournaments or events during the season?

Yes, the 11U and 14U divisions will have an additional End-of-Season Tournament. Additionally, players selected for the All-Star Game will have the opportunity to participate in this exciting event at the end of the season.

How is playing time determined?

We believe in fair play and equal opportunity. Our policy is that players who attend 50% of practices are guaranteed to play 50% of game time. Coaches will do their best to ensure all players have a fair chance to contribute on the court.

What happens if my child can’t attend the season opener or the first game?

If your child is unable to attend the season opener or the first game, please notify your coach ahead of time. While we encourage attendance at the season kickoff, we understand that schedules can conflict. We want to make sure your child gets the most out of the season, so please communicate any absences with your coach.

How do you handle team changes during the season?

Once teams are formed, we do our best to keep the rosters stable throughout the season to ensure team consistency. However, if there are special circumstances (e.g., injury, moving), please reach out to the league office, and we will assess how to handle the situation.

Is there an end-of-season celebration or awards ceremony?

Yes! At the end of the season, we hold an Awards Ceremony to celebrate the hard work and dedication of all players. We will recognize individual achievements, sportsmanship, and team success, and give out end-of-season awards. More details will be provided by your coach as the season concludes.

What should I do if I have concerns or issues with my child’s coach or team?

If you have concerns regarding your child’s coach or team, please start by discussing them with the coach directly. If further assistance is needed, please contact the league office. We strive to maintain a positive, respectful environment for everyone, and we are happy to help resolve any issues.

Are there any additional costs or fees during the season?

The registration fee covers the cost of uniforms, league participation, and basic equipment. However, there may be additional costs if your child participates in the End-of-Season Tournament, purchases extra team gear, or if you choose to attend additional events or fundraisers.

Can I attend practices or games to watch my child?

Absolutely! We encourage parents and guardians to come and support their child during practices and games. However, we ask that you respect the coach's instructions and avoid interfering during practice time. Your support and positive encouragement make a big difference!

Are there any discounts available for siblings or multiple registrations?

We offer sibling discounts for families registering more than one child for the same season. Please contact our office for more details on how to apply this discount during the registration process.

How do you ensure player safety during practices and games?

The safety of all participants is our top priority. All coaches are required to undergo a background check before being allowed to coach, and we follow strict safety protocols for all practices and games. We also ensure that there is first aid available at all events, and coaches are trained in basic first-aid and emergency procedures. Additionally, players are encouraged to wear appropriate gear (e.g., shoes, mouthguards) for their safety.

What happens if my child has an injury during the season?

If your child sustains an injury during the season, please notify the coach immediately. We have protocols in place to ensure that the player receives proper medical attention. Depending on the severity of the injury, your child may need to be cleared by a medical professional before returning to play. If an injury occurs, we also suggest communicating with the coach to make up any missed practices if possible.

How do I stay updated with league news and announcements?

To stay informed, make sure to check in regularly on Instagram (@shafter_rec) and Facebook for updates. Coaches will also send out communication through text, and we will post important announcements on our website. If you're unsure about something, feel free to contact the league office at (661-746-3303) for clarification.