Youth Basketball Handbook 2021-2022 - Inclement weather hotline: 770-297-5453 www.gainesville.org/recreation - Gainesville, GA
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2021-2022
Youth Basketball
Handbook
Inclement weather hotline: 770-297-5453
www.gainesville.org/recreation
830 Green Street, NE
Gainesville, GA 30501
770-531-2680
Fax: 770-531-2681BOARD MEMBERS
Kingsley Peeples, Chair
John Simpson, Vice Chairman
Kristin Daniel, Secretary/Treasurer
Jerry Castleberry
Alex Murray
Susan Daniell
Chris Romberg
Cooper Embry
Robert Washington
GAINESVILLE PARKS & RECREATION
MISSION STATEMENT
“The Gainesville Parks and Recreation Agency, through a coordinated
effort, seeks to enrich the quality of life of the citizens we serve by providing
safe and accessible facilities and a diversified program of activities in an
effective, efficient, equitable, and responsive manner.”
GAINESVILLE PARKS AND RECREATION STAFF
Kate Mattison, CPRP, Director
Michael Graham, Deputy Director
Eason Spivey, CYSA, Interim Recreation Division Manager
Sadie Foote, Youth Athletic Recreation Program Coordinator
Steve Woods, Adult Athletic Program Manager
GAINESVILLE PARKS & RECREATION
YOUTH SPORTS MISSION STATEMENT
“The Gainesville Parks and Recreation Youth Sports Program is dedicated
to encouraging, stimulating, and inspiring a fun, positive experience which
builds self-esteem and leadership, promotes good sportsmanship, health,
develops skills and fosters team work.”TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. WELCOME ......................................................................................... 1
II. GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP AND FAIR PLAY AGREEMENT .. 2
III. GOALS & OBJECTIVES ............................................................... 3-4
A. Intent .................................................................................. 3
B. The Value of Sports ............................................................ 4
IV. POLICIES & PROCEDURES ..................................................... 5-18
A. Registration .........................................................................5
B. Parent Orientation Meeting ................................................5
C. Medical Information ......................................................... 6
D. Concussion Policy – Concussion Training ...................... 6-8
E. Uniforms/Equipment ........................................................ 8
F. Weather ........................................................................... 8-9
G. Cancellations ...................................................................... 9
H. Status Me & Team Sideline ........................................... 9-10
I. Calendar of Events ............................................................ 10
J. Coaches Meeting ............................................................... 10
K. Accident Insurance ........................................................... 10
L. Player Selection ............................................................ 10-12
M. Youth Basketball Rules ................................................ 12-18
V. COACHES ................................................................................... 18-27
A. Responsibilities and Expectations ............................... 18-19
B. Risk/Safety Management/Child Abuse ...................... 19-20
C. Darkness to Light - Stewards of Children………………………21
D. Coaches Code of Ethics Pledge ................................... 21-22
E. Coaches’ Code of Conduct & Code of Ethics ……………..22-24
F. Enforcement of Code of Conduct ................................ 24-25
G. Complaint against a Coach Procedures ............................25
H. Coaches Ejected From a Game ................................... 25-26
I. Philosophy of Youth Sports ........................................ 26-27
J. Coaching Youth Athletes .................................................. 27
VI. PARTICIPANTS ......................................................................... 27-29
A. Responsibilities and Expectations .............................. 27-28
B. Players Code of Ethics ...................................................... 28
C. Corrective Action Policy .............................................. 28-29
VII. PARENTS & SPECTATORS ..................................................... 29-31
A. Responsibilities and Expectations .............................. 29-30
B. Parent/ Spectator Code of Ethics .................................... 30
C. Corrective Action Policy .................................................... 31VIII. ADMINISTRATORS & OFFICIALS ............................................ 32
A. Responsibilities and Expectations ................................... 32
B. Administrators Code of Ethics ......................................... 32
C. Officials Code of Ethics .................................................... 32
IX. APPENDIX………………………………………………………………………… 33-45
1. Report of Suspected Child Abuse ............................... 33-34
2. Youth Worker/Volunteer Policy ................................. 35-36
3. Youth Sports Volunteer Job Description .......................... 37
4. Volunteer/Youth Services Application .......................38-40
5. Parent Orientation Meeting .............................................. 41
6. Good Sportsmanship and Fair Play Agreement .............. 42
7. Youth Sports Member Complaint Form .......................... 43
8. Youth Athletic Evaluation Form ...................................... 44
9. Acknowledgment of Receipt of Youth Sports Handbook...45I. Welcome Welcome! Participation in athletics plays a vital role in the development of children. Research shows a child’s involvement in sport helps them improve their social interaction, increase their confidence, and improve their listening skills and health. Aspects of teamwork, dedication, discipline, physical fitness, self-esteem, and fair play all contribute to the overall growth and maturation of youth. We understand that it is a privilege to be a part of this process and strive to offer quality programs which will aid in this development. Gainesville Parks & Recreation believes open dialogue and communication between parents, coaches, and participants make for a better experience in the program. Our professional staff members working with your child are Certified Youth Sports Administrators and are National Alliance of Youth Sports Clinicians who have been certified to train and supervise our volunteer coaches. Our volunteer coaches have gone through an application process that includes reference checks, criminal background checks, completion of child abuse training (Darkness to Light), and the National Alliance of Youth Sports certification that includes philosophy of children’s sports, injury prevention, practice organization, game rules, and much more. As adults we sometimes forget the most important thing, FUN! Children play sports to have fun, belong to a group, find excitement and gain recognition. It allows them to learn and improve their skills, find success, and experience failure in a safe environment. When children are playing sports, they are learning how to interact with the world around them and the people in it. These experiences are what we should be focused on, and it must be a cooperative effort between our professional youth sports administrators, our volunteer coaches, our officials, and our parents. We believe that working together, through training and education, we can raise the standards for youth sports, and we can return to the age-old notion that children’s participation in organized sports is above all else, FUN! Please utilize this handbook as a reference so you may better understand the philosophies of the Agency regarding youth athletics and do your part in making this program a success. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your child’s development. Sincerely, Kate Mattison Kate Mattison, CPRP Director Kate Mattison, CPRP Director BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kingsley Peeples John Simpson Kristin Daniel Jerry Castleberry Susan Daniell Cooper Embry Chair Vice Chair Secretary/Treasurer Alex Murray Chris Romberg Robert Washington Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 1
II. Good Sportsmanship and Fair Play
Our staff has become accustomed to running a top notch program, and this season will be no
different. We will provide a quality program and professional customer service, BUT in return,
we ask that our patrons follow the rules set forth in order to maintain the integrity and spirit in
youth sports...
In order for Gainesville Parks and Recreation to offer the best youth sports programs available, it
becomes necessary to set forth certain policies, procedures, rules, regulations, codes of ethics and,
in this case, a Good Sportsmanship and Fair Play Agreement. Our staff created and
adopted this Agreement in order for all patrons to have a positive experience. Whether you are a
coach, official, parent, player or even a spectator, YOU are expected to abide by this agreement
100%.
GAINESVILLE PARKS & RECREATION
“GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP AND FAIR PLAY AGREEMENT”
By participating as an Administrator, Coach, Official, Parent, Player or Spectator
I hereby pledge to encourage youth sports in a positive manner by following the
Good Sportsmanship and Fair Play Agreement:
I will demonstrate Good Sportsmanship and Fair Play.
I will promise to make youth sports Fun for everyone.
I will become Knowledgeable in the rules of the game.
I will Attend and Participate at every practice/game that I can.
I will Properly Maintain uniforms, equipment and park facilities.
I will demand a Drug, Tobacco and Alcohol Free environment.
I will encourage and promote a Safe and Healthy playing environment.
I will Respect all administrators, coaches, officials, parents, players and spectators.
I will place the emotional and physical Well Being of the kids ahead of myself.
I WILL REMEMBER THAT YOUTH SPORTS ARE FOR THE KIDS.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 2III. Goals & Objectives
A. Intent
Gainesville Parks and Recreation Youth Sports Program is geared to provide an outlet of healthful
activity and training under good leadership in the atmosphere of wholesome community
participation. This policy is aimed at meeting the spirit and intent of this goal.
The goals & objectives for the Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Sports Programs are:
I. TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF OUR PARTICIPANTS.
i. Routine and Preventative Maintenance at Facilities and Parks
ii. Provide Quality Equipment
iii. Provide Proper Training
II. TO OFFER PARTICIPATION OPPORTUNITIES TO BOTH
YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN REGARDLESS OF RACE, CREED,
RELIGION, OR SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS.
i. Recreation Scholarships
III. TO TEACH BASIC FUNDAMENTALS, SKILLS AND RULES.
i. Qualified Volunteer Coaching
ii. Accessible Rule Books, Training Manuals, Videos
IV. TO DEMAND PROFESSIONALISM FROM STAFF AND
VOLUNTEERS.
i. Continued Education Opportunities
V. TO EXPECT THAT SPORTSMANSHIP AND FAIR PLAY IS THE
STANDARD.
i. Enforce the “AGREEMENT”
ii. Enforce NAYS Code Of Ethics
VI. TO MAINTAIN FINANCIAL STABILITY.
i. Registration Fees
ii. Sponsorship
iii. Special Events
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 3B. The Value of Sports Sports are one of the greatest tools that exist in today’s society to help children develop positive character traits and life values. Early adolescence is a time when children are looking for basic values that they can count on in their lives. Under the right conditions, many youth sports experiences can be enormously beneficial, teaching the importance of teamwork, cooperation, and hard work, among many other qualities. In spite of this enormous potential for good, many youth sports experiences, in which the focus on what’s truly best for children strays, can be emotionally damaging and that damage can last a lifetime. During the years in which most children are typically involved in organized sports they are learning about themselves psychologically, physically, emotionally, and socially. During this juncture their personalities are being molded, their bodies are going through all sorts of changes, and their minds are forming lasting impressions on the importance of sports in their lives. It is at this level that parents, coaches and administrators play the greatest role in making the sports experience positive, healthy, and safe. Clearly, the results of a child’s experiences during these years are crucial, especially when we consider the positive role sports can play in their overall development. Children learn a multitude of important lessons through sports that are basic to leading productive adult lives in our society. Sports provide an ideal forum to teach such valuable fundamentals as ethics, abiding by the rules, winning and losing with grace, coping with success and failure, respecting authority figures, always striving to do your best, etc. These traits provide the building blocks that help young citizens of our communities become well-balanced adults, and which translate into leading productive lives. A study conducted by Hardiness Research of Wyoming found that by a 2:1 ratio for boys and a 3:1 ratio for girls, those who participate in sports perform better in school, do not drop out, and have a better chance to get through college. The foundation for human development occurs during the early years of life. Individuals are exposed to many different learning situations that contribute to their potential for successful development in future endeavors. Activities at home, church, schools and clubs, to name just a few, all play a big role in a child’s growth and development. Organized sports are certainly at, or near the top, of that list. Regardless of which sports they choose to pursue, children will reap the positive benefits since regular physical activity is the basis for a healthy and active lifestyle. Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 4
IV. Policies and Procedures A. Registration Am I a resident? - A resident is any person who lives within the City Limits of Gainesville. This is not to be confused with school attendance. City and School District boundaries are not the same. Even though your mailing address is Gainesville, this does not necessarily mean you are a City Resident. Most programs/classes have different fees for residents and non-residents. Non-residents must pay an additional surcharge established by the Parks & Recreation Board (Participants in many of our programs live outside the City of Gainesville, and the cost of supplying these programs comes exclusively from city taxpayers, fairness requires that non-city residents share the burden of expense). Gainesville Parks and Recreation reserves the right to remove anyone falsifying information from our programs. Please call our office at 770-531-2680 if you have any questions regarding residency. Residency Verification - Gainesville Parks and Recreation requires residency verification for first time registrants that have relocated to the City (Driver’s License or Utility Bill). If currently registered, this procedure will not be necessary. A copy of the participant’s birth certificate is required. Recreation Scholarship Fund - Financial assistance for children under the age of 18 is available to city residents through the Children At Play Fund on a first come first serve basis for all programs. Refund Policy - A 100% refund will be given for activities cancelled by Gainesville Parks and Recreation. Refund requests made prior to the program will be granted without explanation. What if the program is full or you have missed the registration deadline? - You are encouraged to register early for all programs! Participants for all programs are on a first come, first serve basis. Please check registration information on each individual program. For baseball, softball, football, cheerleading, and basketball your name may be placed on a waiting list, and if an opening comes available you will be charged an extra $15.00 late fee and added to a team again on a first come, first serve basis. Registration Payment- Parents and guardians are responsible for providing registration payment for their own participants. Volunteer Coaches are NOT allowed to provide payment for a participant in the league that is not their own child, or a family member, unless prior approval is in writing from the volunteer coach to GPRA. The parent/guardian is still responsible for the registration process in providing GPRA documentation for the child. Parents should not expect their team’s coach to pay or assist with their registration fees. B. Parent Orientation Meeting Gainesville Parks & Recreation requires that all teams conduct a “mandatory parent meeting” during the first week of practice. In order for your child to play in the league, it is mandatory that one of the parents/guardians attend. Important information such as policy and procedures, safety and first aid, medical alerts, expectations, responsibilities and team rules will be discussed in detail. This meeting is held in order to lay the foundation for open communication among coaches, parents and participants. Don’t forget your handbook (See appendix 5 for meeting highlights)! Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 5
C. Medical Information
Please notify the Parks and Recreation Office if your child has a pre-existing medical condition
(i.e. previous surgeries, allergies, medications, physical impairments, etc.) on the registration
form. Also, notify the coach at the mandatory team meeting. This is essential in order to
determine the severity of an accident and to assist medical personnel who respond to the scene.
911 will be called immediately
Parent/Guardian will be contacted
Based on the professional decision of the Emergency Response unit, the participant may
be transported to the closest medical facility for immediate care. If medical
transportation is required, the charges incurred will be billed to the parents/guardians
and/or parent’s guardians’ insurance policy. It is prohibited to transport a participant in
a personal vehicle. A doctor’s Release Form must be submitted to GPRA before a
player/participant may resume play.
All minor injuries will be treated by the league coordinator or coach. Any major or life threatening
injury or accident that may occur on the playing field or at the facility, during scheduled
game/practice times will be handled using the procedures listed above.
D. Concussion and Head Injury
Concussion Information and Education
With the passage of HB 48 by the Georgia Legislature, new requirements to educate youth
athletes and their parents on the dangers of concussions in youth athletic activities will become
effective in January 2014. The Georgia Department of Public Health is referring everyone to
the "Heads Up - Concussion in Youth Sports" program offered by the CDC
CDC - Concussion Program
Purpose: The following policy and procedures are being implemented by the Gainesville Parks
and Recreation Agency with the intent to reduce the potentially serious health risk associated
with sports related concussions and head injuries.
Policy:
It is policy of the Gainesville Parks and Recreation Agency to educate coaches, referees, site
supervisors, parents and participants of the signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with sports
induced concussions. In addition the Agency requires that any participant, under the age of 18,
suspected of a concussion or head injury must be removed from the activity, seek medical
attention and then follow the proper procedures for return to play.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 6Definition: A concussion is a type of brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head or body
that jars or shakes the brain inside the skull. It is important to note that an athlete does not
have to lose consciousness to have suffered a concussion.
Signs Observed by Others Symptoms Reported by
Athlete
Appears dazed or stunned
Is confused about assignment Headache
Forgets plays Nausea
Is unsure of game, score or Balance problems or dizziness
opponent Double or fuzzy vision
Moves clumsily Sensitivity to light or noise
Answers questions slowly Feeling sluggish
Loses consciousness Feeling foggy or groggy
Shows behavior or personality Concentration or memory
changes problems
Cannot recall events prior to hit Confusion
Cannot recall events after hit
Procedure:
1. Distribution of Policy
a. Parents, Coaches, assistant coaches, and site supervisors associated with the sport
activity should become familiar with and have access to a copy of the Recreation
Agency Concussion and Head Injury Policy.
b. Parents, Coaches, assistant coaches, and site supervisors are strongly encouraged to
view the “Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports” online course from the Center for
Disease Control. This online course can be found at the link listed below.
http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/online_training.html.
c. Must provide concussion educational information to all coaches and officials.
d. Must provide concussion educational information to all youth athletes and their
parent/legal guardian. The parent/legal guardian must sign an acknowledgement of
receipt.
2. Suspected Concussion Procedures
a. Any participant exhibiting the signs, symptoms or behaviors associated with a
concussion or head injury: (1) must be immediately removed from the activity and
(2) may not again participate in any activity until cleared by an appropriate health
care professional. Remember When In Doubt Sit Them Out!!
A. The injured participant may NOT be cleared for practice or competition the same day
that the sign, symptom or behavior associated with a concussion or head injury was
observed.
B. The injured participant’s parent or guardian should be immediately notified of the
suspected concussion or head injury so that they can be evaluated by an appropriate
health care professional.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 7C. An accident or injury report form must be submitted to the Gainesville Parks and
Recreation Agency within 24 hours or on the next business day following the
incident.
The parent or guardian of a participant who is suspected of a concussion or head injury must
submit written medical clearance from an appropriate health care professional to the Gainesville
Parks and Recreation Agency prior to returning to any activity. Players will not be allowed to
participate until this document is produced.
3. Mandatory Concussion Training:
a. All employees and volunteers who closely interact with participants will be
required to complete concussion training through NAYS (National Alliance for
Youth Sports). The online course will be found at the link below.
https://www.nays.org/resources/more/free-concussion-training/
E. Uniforms/Equipment
A portion of the registration fee for a particular program may be used to supply the team with
uniforms. If a refund is granted for dropping a program, he or she may be required to return the
uniform or have a portion of the refund retained for the cost of the uniform. Uniforms are
expected to be worn in the condition that they are given out. DO NOT USE BLEACH or other
harsh abrasives to clean uniforms/equipment. Unauthorized alterations to the uniform (i.e.
cutting the sleeves off, helmet decals, scuffing caps, patches, etc.) will require the parent/guardian
to pay for a replacement uniform. All teams must wear the uniform provided by
Gainesville Parks & Recreation. No additional uniforms may be purchased for any
team, and will not be allowed to be worn during Gainesville Parks and Recreation
competitions. If you have additional questions, please speak with the youth
athletics’ administrator.
F. Weather
The safety of the participants, officials, and spectators is the primary concern in cases of inclement
weather (rain, snow, ice, smoke, hot or cold temperatures). Once a game has started, the league
coordinator and/or officials will have the responsibility to remove the players from the field if the
conditions become extreme. If ordered to do so, please find a safe shelter until instructed to return
to the playing field or told that the game has been cancelled. The storm will be considered over
30 minutes after the last sighting of lightning. Light rain showers, without thunder and lightning,
will not justify delaying or cancelling a game.
Policy/Guidelines for Extremely Low Temperatures
The Individual participant or parent of the participant MUST make the ultimate decision as to whether
or not to attend a scheduled athletic activity. GPRA will use a temperature/wind chill threshold of 32°
F, as a limit. Anytime, that the temperature/wind chill is forecasted to be below 32° F for an extended
period of time during outdoor scheduled activity, GPRA will cancel the activity.
A. GPRA Athletic Staff, or designee, will make the final decision as to whether outdoor practices/games
will be conducted. The health, safety, and welfare of the participants WILL be the determining factors.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 8However, the Individual participant or Parent of the participant MUST make the ultimate decision as to whether or not to attend a scheduled athletic activity. B. The wind chill factor will be used to determine the severity of the cold temperature, NOT just the temperature alone. C. Participants should warm-up and stretch properly immediately before the competition or practice. D. Clothing should be selected for comfort. Do not overdress. Multiple layers provide good insulation. E. Properly cover the head, neck, legs, and hands. Much of your body heat is lost through these areas. F. Extreme cold blocks some sensations of pain. Thus, frostbite can easily affect the fingers, toes, ears, and facial areas. Check these areas regularly. G. Hypothermia is dangerous. Add extra clothing and move to a warm environment immediately after game or practice. Drink warm fluids if possible. Hypothermia has occurred in air temperatures of 50º- 65ºF. H. Early signs and symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, euphoria, confusion, and behavior similar to intoxication. Severe signs include lethargy, muscular weakness, disorientation, depression, hallucinations, and even combative behavior. WIND CHILL CHART (Reading=Apparent Temperature) Temperature With 0 mph wind With 10 mph wind With 20 mph wind With 30 mph wind Temperature With 0 mph Wind With 10 mph Wind With 20 mph Wind With 30 mph Wind 40° 40° 34° 30° 28° 38° 38° 31° 28° 26° 36° 36° 29° 25° 23° 34° 34° 26° 23° 20° 32° 32° 24° 20° 18° G. Cancellations Program cancellations due to inclement weather will be updated on our Hotline at 770-297- 5453, and an email/text alert will be sent out via www.statusme.com and www.teamsideline.com/Gainesville. A decision regarding evening programs will be made at 4:00 PM. If a game is cancelled due to weather or other unforeseeable circumstances, all efforts will be made to reschedule that game. However, due to time restraints and/or field usage conflicts, some games may not be made up. It will be the decision of Gainesville Parks and Recreation when and if the games are made up. Special circumstances may be taken into consideration. GPRA will always make the best decisions for the safety of all participants. H. Status Me & Team Sideline Status Me provides yet another means of communicating to our participants when we change the status of our facilities. Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 9
1. Benefits
Field status information comes to you the moment it changes
Status updates come to you in the manner you want (i.e. emails, and text messages).
2. How do I Setup My Account
Status Me
*Go To www.statusme.com
*Select JOIN NOW
*Complete the Registration Page
*Input An Email and Phone #
*Join Gainesville Parks and Recreation
a. Select Georgia in the “State” pull down menu
b. In the “Select a Group” pull down menu, find “Gainesville Parks & Recreation”
c. In the “Select a Club” pull down menu, select “Gainesville & Rec”
d. Click Join
Team Sideline
*Go To www.teamsideline.com/Gainesville
*Select Communication Sign Up
*Input First & Last Name, Email Address, and Mobile Number
*Submit the Completed Information
I. Calendar of Events
A calendar of events handout will be available at the time of registration regarding all important
dates. Game schedules will also be available online at www.teamsideline.com/Gainesville prior to
the season. Team pictures will be scheduled at the most appropriate time. Pictures are purchased
separately from registration.
J. Coaches Meetings
It is mandatory and important for all coaches to attend the preseason and
postseason coaches meetings. All pertinent information regarding the season will
be discussed such as policies and procedures, schedules, important dates,
evaluations and drafts, etc.
K. Accident Insurance
Gainesville Parks and Recreation encourages parents to have insurance coverage on their
children. GPRA does not cover participants engaged in athletic activities.
L. Player Selection
An evaluation will be held in order to give coaches an opportunity to evaluate “ALL” eligible
players. In order for them to accomplish this, it is recommended that eligible players attend all
evaluations. Eligible players attending less than half (1/2) the sessions due to extenuating
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 10circumstances, such as illness, will be reviewed by the Parks and Recreation staff to determine if
they will be eligible for league draft. If in any way the spirit and intent of evaluations or draft is
abused, the athletic staff may make decisions on player placement in the best interest of the
program.
Evaluation & Draft Process (All teams will be Re-drafted yearly)
a. Gainesville Parks and Recreation will schedule evaluation dates, times and locations. Each
participant will be given a written copy of this schedule at registration.
b. A coach’s meeting will be held prior to evaluations to inform coaches of the draft dates and
procedures. Note: Only one (1) Coach will be allowed to attend draft sessions.
This includes the Head Coach or an Assistant Coach.
c. All registered participants must attend player evaluations in order to be placed in the draft
process. Participants who do not attend evaluations will be placed in a blind
draw. Participants living in the same household or siblings will be placed on the same
teams if possible. All combinations of siblings and same household participates will be
taken in the normal rounds of the draft.
d. Player evaluations (test of skills) will be rated on a scale of 1 to 5. Head Coaches, Assistant
Coaches and (1) one member of the GPRA staff will be allowed to evaluate the players.
Example:
Group 1 – All Talent Deficient
Group 2 – All Below Average Talent
Group 3 – All Average Talent
Group 4 – All Above Average Talent
Group 5 – All Elite Talent
f. Using an alternating draft system, each team will receive a relatively equal number of
players for each group listed above, in the following order: group five, group four, group
three, group two, group one.
g. There will be one (1) day of evaluations for each age group.
h. All participants will be evaluated (including coaches’ sons/daughters). Head Coaches
will get their child. Players of the Head Coach will not be frozen and will have to go
through the draft process. This will ensure that each child is placed on the draft board in
the correct slot due to their rating numbers.
i. In basketball, teams are allowed to designate one child in lieu of head coach,
and one child in lieu of the assistant coach.
j. Head Coaches must announce prior to the draft their assistant coach. However; assistant
coach’s sons/daughters are not frozen, and must be drafted in the normal drafting
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 11procedure. Prior to draft, a blind draw will be held to determine what order the teams will
draft.
k. All picks will alternate in a T1, T2, T1, T2 type fashion.
l. At the conclusion of evaluations, each coach will hand over their evaluation sheets to a
Gainesville Parks and Recreation Department employee. The athletics’ administrators
will tally all total scores for each participant and have a final copy of evaluation numbers
to hand out to head coaches ONLY at the beginning of the draft process. Only
Gainesville Parks and Recreation employees & head coaches will see the final
numbers.
m. The number of teams will be determined by the number of participants that are registered.
Youth Basketball (Grades 2nd thru 6th)
(All teams will be Re-drafted yearly)
a. Age Control Date: Prior to September 1st of the current year.
b. Birthdates: Must be certified by a birth certificate.
c. Prior to the league draft a number will be determined stating the number of teams and
players per team.
d. Only the head coach and one (1) assistant coach may lock in their son/daughter or a
brother/sister (2 coaches - 2 players).
e. No trading during the draft or after will be allowed.
M. Youth Basketball Rules
Governing Authority
1. The governing authority for the Youth Basketball League will be the Gainesville Parks
and Recreation Agency (GPRA).
2. The current rules and regulations of the Georgia High School Association (GHSA)
Constitution and By-Laws and the National Federation Edition of Basketball Rules Book
will govern all play not otherwise specified in this document.
Age Division
1. The age control date is as of September 1st, 2020
2. There are five (5) age divisions:
a. 2nd Grade Boys and Girls
b. 3rd Grade Boys and Girls
c. 4th Grade Boys and Girls
d. 5th Grade Boys and Girls
e. 6th Grade Boys and Girls
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 12Gymnasium Rules
1. All parents and spectators must remain on the opposite side of the gym from the players.
2. No chairs will be allowed in the gym.
3. No food, candy or drinks will be allowed inside any of the gyms. Players will be allowed
to bring water and sports drinks into the gym.
4. Unsportsmanlike conduct from coaches, players, or spectators is unacceptable and will
result in disciplinary action from GPRA. Coaches will be held responsible for the actions
of his/her team’s players, assistant coaches, and spectators.
5. Any player or coach ejected from a game for unsportsmanlike conduct will be suspended
for a minimum of one (1) game in addition to the game from which ejected.
a. Any player or coach ejected from a game must leave the gymnasium.
Practices
1. Team practices will begin on Monday, October 28th, 2020, pending that all paperwork
for the team has been submitted
2. Teams are limited to two (2) practices per week before the season begins, which will be
scheduled by GPRA.
3. Once the season begins, practices will be based upon availability only.
4. Time limit for all practices is one hour.
5. It is each team’s responsibility to clean up their practice area at the
conclusion of their practice.
6. Practices will be limited to half-court.
7. Practice schedules are subject to change once the game schedule begins.
Playing Time Rules
1. For 2nd thru 6th divisions, coaches will be required to play each player a quarter and a
half of the game. This is equal to 12 minutes of game play.
Playing Up
1. Players will only be allowed to play up one (1) age division if they have a sibling playing
in that age division.
Special Provisions
1. Games will begin if teams have at least four (4) players. If a team only has four (4)
players, the opposing team may choose to play with four (4) players. That team may also
play all five (5) of his/her players if they choose to. Exception: In the 2nd grade division
the minimum number of players is three (3).
2. Coaches or players may request a timeout. Timeouts will be granted by the officials on
the court only. The scorekeepers cannot approve or deny a timeout by a coach. There will
be two (2) 60 second timeouts per half in a regulation game and timeouts will not roll
over.
3. Overtime periods will be two (2) minutes in length. The clock will stop on all whistles
and each team will be given one (1) 60 second timeout per overtime period. Timeouts
will not carry over from regulation into the overtime period. If a game is tied after one (1)
overtime period has been completed, the game will be scored as a tie.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 134. A jump ball will be used to start the game and alternating possession will be used
thereafter. Except in the 2nd grade division where a coin flip will be used to determine
who has the ball first.
5. The bonus free throws will begin on the 7th foul. On the 10th foul, two shots will be
awarded.
6. Halftime will be 5 minutes.
7. Score will be kept for all age divisions.
8. Mercy Rule: Going into the fourth (4th) quarter if there is a 30 point lead, the clock will
continuously run with the exception of timeouts and injuries. It will run through free
throws.
9. There will be NO Protests.
10. In every grade division, a player will foul out on his or her fifth (5) foul.
Forfeits
1. Any team that does not have four (4) players on the bench or court at game
time shall forfeit said game. However, the two team involved in that particular
game will be allowed to play a scrimmage game or practice during their allotted time.
2nd Grade Division
1. All players must play a quarter and half of the game.
2. Quarters will be eight (8) minutes with a continuous running clock except for the last two
(2) of the second and fourth quarter in which there will be a regulation clock. The
regulation clock will stop on the officials’ whistle.
3. The continuous clock will stop on shooting fouls, injuries, and timeouts
4. Teams must play a man to man defense and must guard inside the 3-point arch. No
half-court traps will be allowed.
5. When possession changes, the defensive team is not allowed to steal the ball and must
allow the offensive team to clear the basketball past the three (3) point line.
6. Games will be played on a court measuring 50 x 42 feet, which is half-court.
7. The goals will be lowered to 8 ½ feet. A 27.5 size basketball will be used.
8. An offensive player may stay in the lane for up to five (5) seconds.
9. Free throws will be shot from the 12 foot line. Tape will be put down to mark the free
throw line.
10. Each team will only be allowed to have 4 players on the court at all-times.
3rd Grade Division
1. All players must play a quarter and half of the game.
2. Quarters will be eight (8) minutes with a continuous running clock except for the last two
(2) of the second and fourth quarter in which there will be a regulation clock. The
regulation clock will stop on the officials’ whistle.
3. The continuous clock will stop on shooting fouls, injuries, and timeouts
4. All teams must play a half-court man to man defense. Half-court trap will be
allowed.
5. There will be no fast breaks allowed.
6. Teams will not be allowed to full-court press.
7. An offensive player may stay in the lane up to five (5) seconds.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 148. The offense has 10 seconds to cross the half-court line.
9. The goals will be set at 8 ½ feet. A 27.5 size basketball will be used.
10. Free throws will be shot from the 12 foot line. Tape will be put down to mark the free
throw line.
4th Grade Division
1. All players must play a quarter and half of the game.
2. Quarters will be eight (8) minutes with a continuous running clock except for the last two
(2) of the second and fourth quarter in which there will be a regulation clock. The
regulation clock will stop on the officials’ whistle.
3. The continuous clock will stop on shooting fouls, injuries, and timeouts
4. An offensive player may stay in the lane for up to three (3) seconds
5. All teams must play a half-court man to man defense. Half-court traps will be
allowed.
6. Teams will be allowed to full-court press the last quarter of the game.
7. Fast breaks will be allowed.
8. The offense has 10 seconds to cross the half-court line.
9. The goals and free throw lines will be set at regulation distances. A 28.5 size ball will be
used.
5th Grade Division
1. All players must play a quarter and half of the game.
2. Quarters will be eight (8) minutes with a continuous running clock except for the last two
(2) of the second and fourth quarter in which there will be a regulation clock. The
regulation clock will stop on the officials’ whistle.
3. The continuous clock will stop on shooting fouls, injuries, and timeouts
4. An offensive player may stay in the lane for up to three (3) seconds
5. All teams must play a half-court man to man defense.
6. Teams will be allowed to full-court press. If a team is up by 15 or more points they will no
longer be allowed to full-court press.
7. Fast breaks will be allowed.
8. The offense has 10 seconds to cross the half-court line.
9. The goals and free throw lines will be set at regulation distances. A 28.5 size ball will be
used.
6th Grade Division
1. All players must play a quarter and half of the game.
2. Quarters will be eight (8) minutes with a continuous running clock except for the last two
(2) of the second and fourth quarter in which there will be a regulation clock. The
regulation clock will stop on the officials’ whistle.
3. The continuous clock will stop on shooting fouls, injuries, and timeouts.
4. An offensive player may stay in the lane for up to three (3) seconds
5. All teams must play a half-court man to man defense.
6. Teams will be allowed to full-court press. If a team is up by 15 or more points they will no
longer be allowed to full-court press.
7. Fast breaks will be allowed.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 158. The offense has 10 seconds to cross the half-court line.
9. The goals and free throw lines will be set at regulation distances. A 28.5 size ball will be
used.
General Information
1. Two (2) coaches (1-Head Coach & 1-Assistant Coach) - per team are allowed on
the bench area during all games. These are the only people allowed to accompany the
players on the team benches.
2. Starting lineups & player substitutes’- first and last names, including jersey
numbers, must be listed on a separate sheet & turned in to the scores table at least 5
minutes before your scheduled game.
3. Back Court – When trying to cross the centerline from back court, a player is
considered to have crossed when the ball and both of his feet are across the center line.
A team has only 10 seconds to get the ball across center court.
4. Out of Bounds
a. Touches anything outside boundary lines or the boundary line
b. Touches ceiling or overhead support
c. Passes over the top of the backboard
5. Clock- The clock will start when the ball:
a. Is legally tipped on a jump ball
b. Touches a player on a throw in
c. Touches a player after a free throw
6. Contact
a. A player shall not hold, push, charge, trip nor impede the progress of opponent
by extending an arm, shoulder, hip or knee or by bending the body into other
than normal position. If committed, the officials will deem whether or not to call
a foul.
b. A dribbler shall not charge into nor contact an opponent in their path that has
established legal guarding position.
c. Incidental contact is that contact during a loose ball when players have equally
favorable positions or when contact does not hinder the opponent’s normal play.
Excessive contact may result in a foul call. This is at the discretion of the officials.
d. Any player who is bleeding or has excessive blood on uniform must leave the
game. The wound must be bandaged and uniform cleaned before returning.
7. Control
a. A player has control when:
i. Holding a live ball
ii. Dribbling the ball
b. A team is in control if it is passing the ball and during an interrupted dribble
8. Dead and Live Ball
a. The ball becomes dead when the following occurs:
i. When a free throw shot misses the rim
ii. When a free throw is to be followed by another free throw
iii. When a jump ball occurs
iv. When a foul occurs
v. When the official whistle is blown
vi. Before the official hands the ball over for a throw in
b. The ball becomes live when:
i. It is touched at the jump
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 16ii. It is touched by a player after a throw-in
iii. It is in the hands of a free throw shooter
9. Dribbling
a. A dribble is ball movement caused by a player in control who intentionally
strikes, pushes, or taps the ball to the floor with the hand.
b. A dribble can be above a player’s head as long as the dribblers hand stays on-top
of the ball.
c. Carrying the ball is a violation when the ball comes to rest in the palm of the
dribblers’ hand.
10. Fouls
a. All fouls count toward the bonus.
b. Common foul – a personal foul neither flagrant nor intentional nor against a
shooter.
c. Double foul – 2 opponents commit against each other at same time. (No free
throw). Alternate possession rule
d. Flagrant foul (personal or technical) - a foul violent or savage if contact, or vulgar
or abusive if non-contact. 2 shots and the ball.
e. Intentional foul (personal or technical) - a foul designed or premeditated. It is not
based on the severity of the premeditated. It is not based on the severity of the
contact—2 shots and the ball.
f. Personal foul—illegal contact during live ball or by an airborne player. After a
dead ball the contact is ignored unless flagrant or intentional.
g. Technical foul—is an infraction of the rules usually concerning unsportsmanlike
non-contact behavior, and is generally considered a more serious infraction than
a personal foul, but not as serious as a flagrant foul. – 2 shots and the ball
h. Player control foul—the player with the ball causes contact. No free throw. Basket
will not be counted if caused by airborne shooter. Possession goes to the team
which the foul was committed towards.
11. Free throws
a. The try must be made within 10 seconds after the ball is given to the shooter by
the official.
b. The shooter cannot fake a try.
c. No player may enter a lane space after ball is in shooter’s hand.
d. No player may line up inside of free throw line except in marked lane space.
e. No player may break the plane of the lane boundaries, including marked lane
spaces, until the ball is released from the shooter’s hand.
f. No opponent shall distract the shooter.
g. The ball must hit the rim to be played.
12. Guarding
a. Legal – There is no minimum distance to establish initial legal guarding position
of having both feet on the floor and the front of the torso facing the opponent.
After initial position the guard is no longer required to face the opponent and can
move with the opponent as long as it is not toward the opponent when contact
occurs. The guard may raise hands or jump within their vertical plane and may
turn or duck to absorb the shock of contact. To guard a player without the ball the
guard must give time and distance for opponent to avoid contact.
b. Closely Guarded – Guard maintains position within 6 feet. A player when closely
guarded in the front court cannot hold the ball for 5 seconds without dribbling or
passing. Defensive players may change and maintain closely guarded status.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 17Penalty for not dribbling or passing within five seconds of being closely guarded
results in a violation and loss of possession.
13. Lane Violation
a. Players cannot remain for 3 (or 5 seconds depending on age group) seconds in
their free throw lane while the ball is in control of their team in the front court.
Allowance shall be made for a player who is in the lane less than 3 seconds,
dribbles in or moves to try for goal. The count shall not begin nor shall it end
during an interrupted dribble. There is no team control while ball is being shot
and rebounded.
14. Throws-Ins
a. It is a violation for the thrower to:
i. Hold the ball for 5 seconds before releasing.
ii. Leave the designated throw in spot. (May run the baseline after a made
basket.)
iii. Carry the ball onto the court.
iv. Try for goal.
v. Be replaced after throw in count has begun.
vi. Release the ball in-bounds then be the first to touch the ball once it has
gone in-bound.
vii. Have any teammate out of bounds when designated spot throw in begins
and in bounder throws their teammate a pass.
viii. Hand the ball off to any team mate or opposing player that is in-bounds.
15. Timeouts
a. Must be called by a player or head coach with oral or visual request when a
member of their team is in control of ball or the ball is dead. Teams have two 1-
minute timeouts during a regulation game. Teams should be ready to
resume play after the sound of the horn. If a time out is called and the team does
not have one, it will result in a technical foul and the team still receives the
timeout.
16. Traveling- Is moving a foot/feet in any direction beyond the prescribed limits while
holding the ball. A player who catches the ball with both feet on the floor may use either
foot to pivot.
V. Coaches
A. Responsibilities and Expectations:
1. A coach should be enthusiastic without being intimidating. He or she should be sensitive
to the children’s feelings and genuinely enjoy spending time with them. He or she
should be dedicated to serving children and understand that youth sports provides
physical and emotional growth for participants. Remember, youth sports are for the
children.
2. A coach needs to realize that he or she is a teacher, not a drill sergeant. He or she should
help children learn and work to improve their skills. Personal gains are never a
consideration. The job does not depend on winning. The best interest of the child
transforms into the best interests of the game.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 183. The safety and welfare of the children never can be compromised. A coach will consider
these factors above all others.
4. A coach needs a tremendous amount of patience. Don’t push children beyond limits in
regards to practice. Children have many daily pressures and the youth sports experience
should not be one of them. Playing sports is meant to be fun.
5. A coach should care more about the players as people than as athletes. The youth sports
program is a means to an end, not an end to itself.
6. A coach should encourage his players to dream and set lofty goals. It is important to
remain positive and refrain from discouraging remarks. Negative comments are
remembered far more often than positive affirmations.
7. A coach needs to remember that the rules of the game are designed to protect the
participants, as well as to set a standard for competition. He or she should never
circumvent or take advantage of the rules by teaching deliberate misconduct. A coach who
puts his or her opponents’ team at risk should not be involved with children.
8. A coach should be the first person to demonstrate good sportsmanship. He or she should
take a low profile during the game and allow the kids to be the center of attention.
9. Parents and players place a lot of trust and confidence in the coach. The coach has an
important role in molding the athletic experience of the child.
10. A coach can measure success by the respect he or she gets from the players, regardless of
victories or defeats. Children who mature socially and physically while participating in
sports are the best indication of good coaching.
11. A coach must always be early, be prepared and make it fun! It is your leadership as a coach
that children will remember over the games themselves.
12. All coaches will be required to wear Gainesville Parks and Recreation photo I.D.’s at all
practices and games.
B. Section 11:9 – Risk/Safety Management/Child Abuse
A. The Board has adopted a Risk Management Policy which is contained in the Risk
Management Manual incorporated into this policy manual by reference.
B. Emergency Procedures have also been adopted and are in the Appendix of this manual.
(Appendix No. 24)
C. Suspected Child Abuse Reporting:
1. Purpose: To provide guidance to employees and volunteers regarding the reporting of
suspected child abuse as mandated by Georgia State Law.
2. Introduction: Employees and volunteers in a public organization providing
recreational programs to children who have reasonable cause to believe that a child has
been abused are required by Georgia State Law to report or cause reports of that abuse to
be made to the proper authorities.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 193. How to Report Child Abuse:
A. If the child is in immediate danger:
1. Call 911 immediately
2. Once the police have been contacted, notify your immediate supervisor.
3. The immediate supervisor will notify the GPRA Director or, in the absence of
the Director, the Deputy Director.
4. The employee or volunteer who made the initial observation will complete a
written Report of Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect and submit to DFCS with a
copy to the GPRA administrative office within 24 hours (Appendix No. 25).
B. If the abuse is not actively on-going and the child is not in immediate danger:
1. Notify your immediate supervisor.
2. The immediate supervisor will notify the GPRA Director or in the absence of the
Director, the Deputy Director.
3. The employee or volunteer who made the initial observation will contact the
Hall County Department of Family & Children Services.
i. On Monday – Friday between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM,
contact the Hall County Department of Family and Children Services
office at 770-532-5298.
ii. At all other times, contact 911.
4. The employee or volunteer who made the initial observation will complete a
written Report of Suspected Child Abuse and submit to DFCS with a copy to the
GPRA administrative office within 24 hours (Appendix 24).
4. Written Report of Suspected Child Abuse: Employees and volunteers who have
reasonable cause to believe that a child has been abused shall complete the Report of
Suspected Child Abuse (Appendix 24) for submittal to the Department of Family and
Children Services within 24 hours of filing an oral report.
5. Training: All employees and volunteers who interact closely with children through their
work, including but not limited to, camp counselors, class instructors and youth sports
coaches will receive training, as a part of their orientation, on the signs of abuse and how
to report it.
Such training will include:
A. An overview of the Georgia state law on Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse.
B. Definitions and indicators of child abuse according to the Georgia Department of
Human Resources.
C. Procedures as outlined in this policy for reporting suspected child abuse.
D. Directions on how to complete and submit the written Report of Suspected Child
Abuse.
E. All employees and volunteers who interact closely with children through their work
are never to be alone with a child for any reason.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 20C. Darkness to Light - Stewards of Children
Whether you work for an educational institution, worship center, recreation facility, day care
operation, or one of myriad other youth serving organizations, the odds are, you’re prepared.
You know the nearest exits so that you can get children out of the building quickly and safely, if
necessary. You know where the First Aid kits are located, and you may even have procedures for
documenting injuries when they occur. But do you know how to react if sexual abuse
occurs to a child in your care?
Child sexual abuse is likely the most prevalent health problem children face, with
the most serious array of consequences. In fact, 1 in 10 children will experience
sexual abuse before their 18th birthday.
Across the United States, across the world, we hear or read reports of child sexual abuse on a
daily basis. Child sexual abuse crosses all socio-economic boundaries, cultures, races, and
religions. One of the few commonalities is that predators are often drawn to places where they
can easily gain access to children and develop trusting relationships with families and
communities. This means that every single youth serving organization is potentially at risk –
unless you choose to do something about it.
a. Darkness to Light Training
i. A proactive answer to child sexual abuse prevention.
ii. A training program that incorporates a combination of survivor
stories, expert advice, and practical guidance.
iii. An evidence-informed prevention solution that shows
organization administers, staff, and volunteers how to implement
effective prevention policies, recognize the signs of sexual abuse in
children, and react responsibly if abuse occurs.
D. Coaches Code of Ethics Pledge
I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my players ahead of a personal
desire to win.
I will treat each player as an individual remembering the large range of emotional and
physical development for the same age group.
I will do my best to provide a safe playing situation for my players.
I will promise to review and practice the basic first aid principles needed to
treat injuries of my players.
I will do my best to organize practices that are fun and challenging for all my
players.
I will lead by example in demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship to all my players.
I will provide a sports environment for my team that is free of drugs, tobacco, and
alcohol, and I will refrain from their use at all youth sports events.
Gainesville Parks & Recreation Youth Basketball Handbook Page 21You can also read
