Southwest Basketball registers all our community based teams (with players ages 9 to 17) in the Edmonton Youth Basketball Association (EYBA). The EYBA provides city-wide Community League Basketball to all communities in the Capital Region and outlying communities. Over 2,500 youth register to participate in the programs offered through the EYBA. Through participation in this league the Southwest teams get the opportunity to play against other communities from across the Capital Region.
The aim of the EYBA and Community League Basketball is to provide enjoyment for the players and teach the lessons of fair play and sportsmanship. The physical and emotional welfare of the player is paramount. Success is measured in participation.
EYBA Community Basketball provides an opportunity for all who register to play. Players are divided by age and gender into categories as follows:
11U: 2013, 2014 (9-10 years old)
13U: 2011, 2012 (11-12 years old)
15U: 2009, 2010 (13-14 years old)
18U: 2006, 2007, 2008 (15-17 years old) **Two season program - (end of September - November) and (beginning of January - mid March)
The league is based on a “no tryout - no cut” philosophy. Everyone who wants to play is welcome and will be placed on a community team in their age division. This is referred to as the City-Wide Community Based Program and is offered to players ages 9 to 17.
Southwest Basketball is responsible for registering all athletes, forming teams, providing use of jerseys and use of equipment, paying referees, arranging for practice times and providing and developing coaches. Southwest Basketball then registers our community teams in the EYBA for league play. EYBA is then responsible for all game scheduling, results posting, playoffs and medals.
The City-Wide Community Based Program runs from end-September to mid-March with games played on Saturdays in the Saville Community Sports Centre and in gyms across Edmonton and surrounding communities any time from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. On occasion teams may play 2 games on a Saturday. There will also be occasional Friday evening games.
Teams will also get at least one, one hour practice time per week (subject to gym availability). Practices start the last week of September. Earlier times in the evening are allotted to the younger age groups, with later times going to the older age groups. Once set, the practice time slot will be the same day and time each week. Please note that occasionally practices will be cancelled due to school events, such as holiday concerts. If extra gym time is available, coaches can work with the Gyms Coordinator to get a different gym time due to cancellations.
