County Basketball
What is County Basketball?
Bowie County basketball teams play in tournaments and leagues, generally in the surrounding counties, but potentially out of the area and out of state as well – depending on the team and the managers and families involved. County teams are assembled by age group (7, 8, 9, 10, 11, etc.) and their age group is dictated by their age on January 1st of that year. County basketball provides a more competitive brand of basketball than you will generally see in our intramural program but is also still focused on player development.
Who can play?
Bowie County Basketball is committed to allowing as many kids the opportunity to play as possible, and will often field 2 county teams per age group (8yrs – 18yrs), if the interest exists. In order to be eligible for consideration, players MUST attend a scheduled or individual tryout with the coaches of that age group.
At what age does County start and what levels of play are offered?
Bowie offers county basketball starting at age 8 and continuing to every age group where interest-level and participation exist. At 8 years old, there is typically enough interest for 1 team. At 8 years old and above, we hope to have 2 teams.
The level of play in the Prince George’s Boys & Girls Club League is AAA (highly competitive) and AA (less competitive). The level of play in the Anne Arundel Recreation and Parks League is A (highly competitive), B (less competitive), and C (Developmental).
Do players have to try out for County Basketball?
Yes, every player that wants to play on a county team must tryout. You must register at www.bbgc.com and pay a $25 non refundable tryout fee.
Does every player make a team?
No, not necessarily. While we endeavor to select multiple teams at each age group, there are years when we just don’t have enough kids to do that, so there can be cuts.
How much does County Basketball cost?
The cost for the County basketball seasons is between $225 – $275 per player, depending on whether they play in the Prince George’s County Boys & Girls Club League or the Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks League.
During the registration process, each family will be responsible for purchasing their players uniform that includes a personalized reversible jersey and shorts, approximately $75 – $85. Optional items for purchase are a personalized basketball bag, shooter shirt, sweat suit and shoes which will be recommended through the organization or team.
Does my player have to get an Identification Card?
Yes, each player must have either a valid Maryland MVA ID card, and/or any sanctioned government issued ID card that includes a photo and DOB (i.e. US Passport, Military Dependent ID card). Please schedule an appointment at https://mva.maryland.gov/Pages/default.aspx as soon as possible to ensure your players ability to play.
What is the commitment level for County Basketball?
While we expect full participation, we do understand that family commitments can sometimes overlap with basketball. We have left the discretion in the hands of each Head Coach, and expect that communication will occur between families and coaches to ensure that we have no cases where teams are short-handed & have to withdraw from scheduled games and tournaments.
Is there equal playing time in County Basketball?
No, not necessarily. In recreation basketball, we have rules that encourage and sometimes dictate how many minutes players play. These rules generally do not exist in county basketball. While the overall goal should still be focused on player development, coaches have the option to play kids where they will have the best chance to help the team and be successful.
Who can coach?
Anyone who manages a team in our organization has previous basketball coaching experience or is committed to providing guidance to our young players is a candidate for coaching county basketball. Head coaches are selected first and have the discretion to pick their team.
Why do I need to volunteer to help my team or program?
Our parents are the reason our program is successful. We plan to host homecoming, tournaments, and fundraising to reduce the cost for families and continue to provide an excellent basketball experience for our youth. The proceeds of fundraisers will go right back into our program to fund the organization and help pay for tournaments and equipment. Parents are required to volunteer on their child’s team and as an organization. In addition to volunteering your time, you will also be asked to volunteer your talents! Please be prepared to jump in and help make your child’s team a great experience for all!
Should you have any further questions about the Bowie county basketball selection process, or county basketball in general, please do not hesitate to ask your child’s coach, or send an email to [email protected] and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.