K-4 FAQ
2019-2020 Ayer Youth Basketball Frequently Asked Questions
Return to Ayer Youth Basketball
What is Ayer Youth Basketball? What are the different divisions that are available for?
Ayer Youth Basketball is a program managed through the Ayer Parks Department. It is open to anyone from Pre-K through 4th grade. Upon entering 5th grade, players become eligible for the Ayer/Shirley Youth Basketball travel program, which is overseen by the ASYB Board. The AYB levels are as follows:
Miniballers (Pre-K)
As you might expect, the Miniballers program is designed to introduce very young players to some basic concepts of the game while keeping it fun and simple. Sessions are 45 minutes on Saturday afternoons and run from Early January through mid-February.
Kindergarten-2nd Grade Division
Designed to introduce youngsters to the game and develop rudimentary skills while maintaining a fun atmosphere. Players are separated into boys and girls divisions at the 1st-2nd grade levels. All games and practices take place on Saturday mornings and last about an hour. The program runs from early December to mid-February. If gym space allows, there may also be some occasional weekday practices offered.
3rd/4th Grade Division
Sessions are Saturday mornings as well as two weekday practice each week. More advanced skills are introduced to help prepare younger players for competitive play. Players are separated into boys and girls divisions. Games are played on Saturdays with coaches refereeing. The program runs from mid-November to mid-February.
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available to anyone who needs assistance. Please note that funding for Ayer Recreational Basketball is based on registration fees and excessive F/A requests can lead to a reduction in the quality of the program. For more information on how to acquire F/A, contact the Ayer Parks Department at 978-772-8217
How are coaches selected? How are teams formed?
Coaches and assistants are chosen by the Ayer Youth Basketball Board in mid-October from a pool of those who have shown interest. Selection is based on experience and basketball knowledge. Those who have coached in the previous year get priority. Coaches are all required to submit to a CORI check.
In the first few weeks of the 1st-4th grade levels, coaches will have a player evaluation session to get a look at the players in their division and an idea of the best way to balance teams. Teams are then selected for the upcoming season, generally with 8-10 players per team. At the Pre-K and Kindergarten levels teams are put together randomly each week, as there is more of an emphasis on individual skills instruction, with team concepts worked in as the season progresses.
What if a player wants to be on another team after being selected?
Because the goal at the 1st-4th grade levels is to balance the teams when they are being formed, it is difficult to move a player after they have been placed. It is suggested that you make any requests regarding team placement before teams are made. If there is a clear reason for moving a player (conflict with the coach/other players, etc.) every effort will be made to make a switch. Please call the Ayer Park Department at 772-8217 if this is an issue. If you foresee any potential conflicts or schedule issues, please include them in the registration form.