Helena Frye
The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) has been a youth sports staple since 1888, providing a platform for nearly 800,000 members to compete in 50+ sports programs across the nation. To sign your kid up for AAU basketball, you'll need to create an AAU account and purchase a membership. This will allow your child to join an existing AAU basketball club or team, or even form a new one. Costs for AAU basketball vary, from free to thousands of dollars, depending on factors such as travel, team offerings, skill level, and more. It's important to consider your child's age, the level of competition, and the values of the team or organization to ensure a good fit for your child and family.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age group | 7 and under to 20 years old |
| Membership cost | $20-22 per year |
| Travel | Depends on the team or club |
| Benefits | Up to $50,000 in sports insurance for AAU-licensed events |
| Team selection criteria | Team's values, teaching methods, focus areas, etc. |
| Specialization | Potential for hyper-specialization in one sport |
| Playing style | High defensive pressure, constant pressing and trapping |
| Equipment | 28.5-inch balls and 10-foot rims |
| Playing time | Varies significantly between players |
| Coaching style | Varies, some coaches are "crazy" and intense |
| Schedule | Year-round, playing multiple sports is recommended |
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What You'll Learn
Consider the costs
The cost of joining an AAU basketball team can vary significantly, from a few hundred to thousands of dollars per year. The cost depends on factors such as the team, club, location, travel requirements, skill level of the player, and the number of tournaments.
Some teams may charge a few hundred dollars for a league team, while tournament teams can cost significantly more. For example, a league team may cost around $350, plus an additional $100 for a uniform, while a tournament team could be in the range of $800 or more, also plus the cost of a uniform. These costs can quickly add up, especially when considering the potential for multiple tournaments per year.
Additionally, travel expenses can be a significant factor. If your child's team travels to tournaments or evaluation events, you may need to budget for transportation, accommodation, and other related costs.
AAU membership fees are also required. Youth membership, which includes insurance coverage for all youth sports, is $20 for regular membership and $22 for extended coverage membership. Adult memberships are sport-specific and cost $22 for regular membership and $27 for extended coverage. International (non-US) membership is $55, but extended coverage is not available for this category.
It is worth noting that some AAU teams or clubs may be funded by other means, such as fundraising or through support from lower-tier teams within the club, which can reduce the financial burden on individual players.
Before committing to a particular team or club, it is essential to understand the associated costs and determine whether they align with your budget. It may be beneficial to explore multiple options, compare prices, and evaluate the overall value offered by each program.
While the costs of AAU basketball can be substantial, it is important to weigh them against the potential benefits, such as skill development, competition, and exposure for college recruiting (especially for high school players). However, it is also worth considering more affordable alternatives, such as recreational (rec) leagues, which can provide a good foundation for your child's basketball journey and allow them to develop their skills in a less intense and costly environment.
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Understand the time commitment
AAU basketball is a significant time commitment. The AAU basketball season typically runs from March through mid-to-late June for elementary and middle school players, and March through July for high schoolers, with breaks in June for school basketball. AAU basketball is also played in the fall and winter, but these are secondary seasons, as many players participate in other sports during these months.
The time commitment extends beyond the official season, as AAU teams may travel to tournaments throughout the year. Travel is not a requirement, but many teams do so, especially at the high school level, to gain exposure for college recruiting. AAU tournaments can cost anywhere from $100 to $700 per team, and the costs for AAU basketball overall can vary from free to thousands of dollars, depending on various factors.
AAU basketball demands a lot of time on the court, with a focus on playing multiple games in a short period. This can be beneficial for gaining experience and exposure, but it may also lead to burnout and a risk of injury, especially if your child plays only one sport year-round. Playing different sports can increase athleticism and give your child's body a rest, so it's important to consider the time commitment required for AAU basketball in the context of their overall athletic pursuits and well-being.
Additionally, the time commitment for AAU basketball may impact your child's ability to develop skills and strength through practices and individual training. Many AAU teams do not offer much practice time, and some coaches prioritize winning over player development. Therefore, it's crucial to consider the balance between game time and skill development when evaluating the time commitment involved with a particular AAU team.
Overall, AAU basketball can provide a valuable experience for your child, but it requires a substantial time investment, both on and off the court. As a parent, it's important to carefully consider the time commitment in relation to your child's overall athletic goals, well-being, and development.
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Evaluate your child's skill level
When it comes to evaluating your child's skill level in basketball, there are a few key steps you can take to make an informed decision. Firstly, observe your child while they play with their peers. This will give you insight into their comfort level and skill set in relation to others their age. You can also seek out an experienced coach or trainer who can assess your child's skills through a series of drills and provide feedback on their performance.
Another option is to utilise resources like the Dr. Dish Home shooting machine, which offers players access to top coaches and trainers, a wide range of drills and workouts for various basketball skills, and the ability to track progress over time. This can be a cost-effective way to support your child's development.
It's also important to keep in mind that skill development in basketball is a journey. The game is constantly evolving, so what worked years ago may not be as effective today. This means that as a parent, you may need to update your understanding of the game and current trends in skill development.
When considering AAU basketball specifically, it's worth noting that it can be highly competitive, with intense coaches and a heavy focus on basketball year-round. While it may offer strong competition and a chance to raise your child's game, it can also be costly and time-consuming, especially if travel is involved. Therefore, it may be beneficial to start with a local recreational league to gauge your child's interest and skill level before progressing to AAU.
Additionally, it's recommended that young athletes play multiple sports to develop a broader athletic foundation and reduce the risk of injury and burnout from specialising too early. This can also provide your child with the opportunity to discover which sport they have the most passion and talent for.
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Research the team's values
AAU basketball teams vary in their values and approaches. Some teams are highly competitive and focus on winning, while others prioritize player development and life lessons. It is important to find a team that aligns with your family's values and goals.
- Practice and games: Some AAU teams do not practice and only play games. Consider whether you want a team that focuses solely on gameplay or one that offers structured practices and skill development. For example, Pro Skills Basketball (PSB) teams practice twice a week, incorporating skill development and team concepts.
- Life lessons and character-building: Many parents view AAU basketball as an opportunity for their child to learn life skills, build confidence, and develop character. If this is important to you, look for a team that emphasizes these aspects. For instance, PSB uses basketball as a vehicle to teach life lessons and help kids succeed both on and off the court. Their core values are F.O.C.U.S, which stands for Fun, Overcome, Compete, Unity, and Self-Improvement.
- Competition and winning: Consider whether you want a highly competitive team focused on winning or one that prioritizes player development and enjoyment. Avoid teams with a "win-at-all-costs" mentality, as this may detract from your child's overall experience and well-being.
- Coach's influence: The coach will have a significant impact on your child's experience. Look for a team that prioritizes experienced, qualified, and background-checked coaches who have completed child safety training. Ensure the coach's philosophy aligns with your values and goals for your child's development.
- Travel and costs: AAU teams may or may not involve travel, and costs can vary widely depending on the team's location, skill level, and travel requirements. Consider your budget and whether the team's offerings align with the price. Ask about the practice and tournament schedule, locations, and any additional benefits, such as clinics, camps, or educational content.
- College recruitment: If your child is in high school, consider a team with a history of successful college recruiting. Find out if they provide guidance and support throughout the college recruiting process.
Remember, choosing the right AAU basketball team is a crucial decision. Take the time to research and find a team that aligns with your child's development, enjoyment, and future aspirations. Don't be afraid to ask questions and trust your instincts when evaluating a team's values and fit for your family.
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Weigh the benefits
AAU basketball is one of the most popular and influential forms of competitive youth basketball in the United States. It is a great opportunity for your child to compete against some of the best players in the sport. AAU basketball can help your child hone their skills and get recruited for college basketball. AAU tournaments offer playing opportunities outside of school basketball, and in many cases, the level of competition is higher than in school basketball.
AAU basketball can also help your child develop important life skills. In AAU, team success often outweighs individual achievement, and players learn to take coaching, support their teammates, and sacrifice for the common good. AAU basketball also provides a platform for your child to be seen by college coaches during sanctioned viewing periods, potentially leading to scholarships and recruitment opportunities.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider before signing your child up for AAU basketball. One of the main concerns is the cost, as AAU teams can be expensive, with even the cheaper options costing $700 or more per year. Additionally, AAU has been criticized for its focus on games rather than training and skill development. Some argue that too many games and not enough practice can lead to bad habits and a lack of fundamental skills. It is important to find an AAU team that aligns with your family's goals and philosophy and offers a balance of practice and gameplay.
Another consideration is the time commitment and potential for burnout. AAU teams play year-round, and the travel requirements can be demanding, especially for younger children. It is important for children to have time for other activities and sports to develop a well-rounded athleticism and avoid injury and burnout.
Overall, AAU basketball can provide valuable opportunities for skill development and college recruitment. However, it is important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks and choose a team that aligns with your child's goals and promotes a healthy balance of competition and skill development.
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Frequently asked questions
To sign your child up for AAU basketball, you must first create an AAU account and select the type of membership you want. Memberships for youth athletes are $20-$22 a year, and once you have a membership, your child qualifies to join an existing AAU club. You can also form a new team with others.
The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) has been a youth sports staple since 1888. The AAU works to provide sports programs for participants of all ages, encouraging athletes to pursue greatness and teaching them life lessons. AAU basketball can help your child develop athleticism and competitive experience, which may help them win college scholarships.
Costs for AAU basketball vary depending on the team and club, what they offer, the skill level of the player, and travel requirements. While some AAU teams are free, others can cost thousands of dollars. AAU memberships for youth athletes are $20-$22 a year, and youth club fees are $30 a year.
