Q.   What programs does HYBL offer and to whom?

A.   HYBL offers an In-Town program that is open to all Hopedale children (residents and school-choice in) from Grade 2 through Grade 6. This is a co-ed program focused on having an enjoyable experience, building basketball skills, learning teamwork, and gaining knowledge of the game.

    HYBL also offers a travel program as part of the South Central Youth Basketball League. The teams offered depend on whether South Central offers a league for that age group and whether there is enough interest from the Hopedale youth of that age group to form a team. Selection to the travel teams is determined through try-outs.

Q. How do I sign up?

A. Registration forms will be sent home through the school and will also be posted on this website under the "Handouts" link. It is VERY important that you meet the sign up deadlines so that HYBL can plan the In-Town team size appropriately and maximize playing time for each child. Late sign-ups may be turned away.

Q.   My son/daughter will be trying out for the travel team. Can they also play in the In-Town program?

A.   Definitely! HYBL encourages all travel players to play both Travel AND In-Town. We feel that participation by travel kids in the In-Town program is beneficial to all the kids. That child can work on improving skills and building confidence in a less competitive situation and can bring that back to the travel games. In addition, the children that don't play on the travel team benefit from playing against children who will challenge them to do their best and improve their skills.

Q.   How are children selected for the travel teams?

A.   In late October, the HYBL will hold try-outs for one week for all the travel teams. Each team's tryout will occur on two nights during the week. A child should be present on both nights to be considered for the team. The HYBL board evaluates the children and selects the teams based on these evaluations. Coaches for the teams are selected after the children are selected and unless the coach is also a board member, they do not participate in the selection process.

Q.   When are tryouts for the travel program?

A.   HYBL will be sending flyers out through the school. Be looking for these in October. Tryouts are normally on or around the last full week of October. As the dates get firmed up, we will update the website.

Q.   What if I cannot afford the HYBL fees?

A.   Contact the HYBL board. The board may waive the fee in certain hardship situations. We are committed to get every child who wants to play out there on the court.

- Jason Beard