VENOM


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COMPETITIVE "REP" TEAM INFORMATION

PLAYER COMMITMENT
Rep programs are intended for athletes who are committed and serious about playing basketball at a competitive level. It is very difficult to play competitive basketball and another competitive sport. Venom is considered the priority sports commitment for our players. Players are expected to put rep basketball ahead of any other team sport. School work/activities always take precedence over rep basketball.

PARENTAL COMMITMENT
Oakville Basketball Club is a volunteer organization and every parent of every OBC player is expected to commit to a volunteer effort to help the teams run. This commitment need not be more than a few hours on an occasional basis, but it is essential. Your Managers (who are also volunteers!) will outline the volunteer jobs during the first team meeting. In addition, the OBC expects to host a major tournament every year, and parents are expected to help that weekend.

GOALS
The individual team goals may vary based on the age of the players on the team coach. All teams will focus on skill development, teamwork and sportsmanship in a competitive environment.

TYPICAL SCHEDULE
During the season teams will practise two to three times per week for 1.5 to 2 hours. For the teams that do not start their season immediately (high school aged players), they will practise once a week until their season begins. Teams will usually compete in a number of away tournaments on weekends, the OBC Tournament and the OBA Provincial Championships. The tournaments and league games usually take place in south-central Ontario. There may also be opportunities to participate in tournaments in Quebec and in the United States.

HOW LONG IS THE SEASON?
Tryouts begin in early September. Girls and boys age 10-14 begin once the team has been picked and end with provincials (end of March beginning of April). Girls age 15-16 begin once the high school season ends and their rep provincials are at the end of April. Boys age 15-16 begin once the high school season ends and their rep provincials are the middle of May. Atom level teams (ages 10-11) wrap up shortly before or just after Easter. Other teams will play later in the year.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The individual teams set fees ranging from $350 to $500 for the season, dependent upon the age of the players (high school players need larger gyms and for longer periods of time), the number of tournaments entered and the amount of fundraising. These fees include the OBC registration fee (TBD), insurance coverage, gym rental, tournament fees. Additional fees / fundraising will be needed for travel arrangements and uniforms.

FAQ’s

If I play high school basketball, do I have time for the rep program too?
YES!!! The Venom program is designed so that there is only one light practice during the high school season for both girls and boys, and there are no tournaments during this time. Most of our players do both!

What is the tryout process?
Every player is guaranteed three tryouts. On occasion additional tryouts are required and you will be notified by the coach at the third tryout. There is a fee of $25 (for all three tryouts) to help cover the gym expense.

How do you evaluate potential Venom players?
All players at all levels are evaluated by a team of 4-5 people. Players are evaluated on a combination of basketball skills appropriate to their level, attitude/willingness to work, as well as game situations (assessed through scrimmages). The player selection is the sole responsibility of the appointed coach.


Is there a guarantee of playing time?
OBC’s Venom is a competitive basketball program. There are playing time rules for the 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. Additional playing time is earned through hard work and dedication at practice, positive attitude and player development over the season.


Do I have to have competitive basketball experience?
Not at all! Basic skills, athletic capability, an understanding of the game and desire are all you need to try out.

What else is needed if I make the team?
A formal Basketball Ontario registration form is required for all participants along with a copy of their birth certificate.


Do I need a release form if I came from another club?
Basketball Ontario has eliminated the need for release forms. Players are free to try out for any team they desire.