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Joining AAU Basketball could be the best decision for young players.
It opens up a world of thrilling competitions and really helps athletes sharpen their skills.
Imagine the excitement of stepping onto the court against some of the country’s top talent!
If you want to jump in, the first step is to register for an AAU membership and, if you’re not an athlete, you’ll need to complete a background check.
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AAU Basketball is your chance to compete with the best of the best! It’s not just about the game; it’s a fantastic way for kids to make friends while testing their abilities.
The AAU Boys Basketball program, in particular, is famous for its top-notch tournaments and events.
Diving into AAU Basketball can lead to amazing chances—players might impress college scouts or even snag a spot on a national team.
It all starts with an easy sign-up process!
Key Takeaways
- To join AAU Basketball, registering for membership is your first step
- AAU provides high-level competition and skill-building for young players
- Getting involved in AAU events can open doors to college recruitment
How to Sign Up for an AAU Membership
Getting an AAU membership is super important to join AAU basketball.
The whole process is pretty straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Let’s break down what the membership involves, how to apply, and the different membership types.
Understanding AAU Membership
When you become an AAU member, you can join teams and participate in AAU events.
Plus, it provides insurance coverage for practices and games—which is a relief for both players and parents.
Membership types vary.
Youth and adult athletes have different options, and coaches need non-athlete memberships.
Your AAU membership will last for a year, starting on September 1st and wrapping up on August 31st.
Just remember to renew each year to stay in the game!
The Application Process
Ready to get your AAU membership? First, you’ll need to create an online account.
You’ll pick your own username and password—it’s like your AAU home base!
Once your account is set up, you fill out the membership form with your personal details and select your sport—just choose between “Boys Basketball” or “Girls Basketball.” After you fill in everything, review the terms and hit submit.
Some folks even check out extra perks, like signing up for Siege Marketplace for exclusive gear and events.
After you hit that submit button, keep an eye on your inbox for a confirmation email with more details.
When you apply, you’re agreeing to the AAU rules.
If you’re under 18, your parents will need to sign off too.
After paying, you’ll get your very own AAU number right away!
Membership Types and Fees
Here’s a quick rundown of AAU memberships and what they cost:
- Youth Athlete: $20 or $22
- Adult Athlete: $20 to $35
- Non-Athlete: Varies
Youth memberships are priced at $20 or $22, depending on the coverage level you choose.
Adult fees vary based on the sport and coverage selected.
Non-athlete members, like coaches, do pay a bit more and will need to undergo a background check.
That comes with an additional cost, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind it brings.
If you want extra coverage, it’s available for a higher fee.
It provides even more insurance protection for all those sports activities.
Getting Involved in AAU Events
AAU basketball opens the door to a ton of tournaments and leagues.
Players can scout out events and join teams to start competing!
Finding AAU Licensed Events
There’s no shortage of basketball events organized by the AAU across the nation.
Just hop online, and you can find tournaments and leagues near you.
Their website has a handy list of upcoming events sorted by age group and location.
Local AAU districts also share information about their events.
Plus, don’t underestimate social media and basketball forums—they’re fantastic for keeping an eye on tournaments!
Make sure to check all the event details.
You’ll want to confirm that you meet all the age and membership criteria.
Most events expect participants to be registered with AAU.
Connecting with Clubs and Teams
Joining an AAU club or team is crucial for participating in events.
The AAU clubs allow players to practice and compete together.
Search online for clubs in your area—the AAU website has a tool for finding nearby teams.
Local gyms and coaches usually have a good sense of what’s out there, too.
When it comes to joining clubs, don’t be surprised by tryouts—they’re pretty common! This is where you can show off your skills to make the team.
Many clubs have different levels based on skill and experience.
And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, new players can create their own AAU team! All you need is a coach and enough players to sign up.
Then, you can enter AAU events together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parents and players often have questions when it comes to joining AAU basketball.
The whole process can seem a bit overwhelming at first.
Let’s clear up some of the most common misunderstandings about tryouts, costs, age groups, and team formation.
Where can I find AAU basketball tryouts near me?
To find local AAU basketball tryouts, check the AAU website for listings in your area.
Social media and local sports forums are also great resources.
Many AAU clubs share their tryout details on Facebook or Instagram.
Ask school coaches if they know of any upcoming tryouts.
Local gyms or recreation centers may also have flyers or information about AAU teams nearby.
How much does it usually cost to join an AAU basketball team?
Costs can vary quite a bit depending on the team and location.
Basic AAU membership runs around $20-35 a year.
Team fees typically range from $400 up to $2000 or more per season.
This usually covers uniforms, practice facilities, and tournament entry fees.
Just keep in mind that travel costs for out-of-town tournaments are usually extra.
Some teams even offer payment plans or financial aid if you need it.
What’s the best age for kids to start playing AAU basketball?
Many kids jump into AAU basketball between the ages of 8-10.
This gives them a solid grip on the basics first.
Some programs even have teams for kids as young as 7!
If you’re older and just starting out, don’t sweat it—many clubs have novice teams for teens new to competitive play.
It’s all about finding the right fit for your skill level and goals.
Is playing AAU basketball worth the investment?
If you’re serious about basketball, AAU can really provide valuable experience and exposure.
Playing more games against tough competition helps kids improve quicker.
Plus, college scouts often have an eye on AAU tournaments to find talent.
But remember, you don’t need AAU to get into college basketball.
The costs and time commitment aren’t for every family.
Why does AAU basketball have high fees?
AAU fees cover a lot of ground.
Court rentals for practices and games can be pricey.
You’ve also got expenses for uniforms, equipment, and tournament fees that can add up fast.
Traveling for out-of-town events adds another layer of cost.
Sometimes coaches receive small stipends, and there are administrative costs involved in running the program as well.
What’s the process for making an AAU basketball team?
Most AAU teams hold open tryouts.
This is your chance to show your skills in drills and scrimmages, while coaches look for talent, athleticism, and teamwork.
Some teams have invite-only tryouts for standout prospects.
After tryouts, coaches select their rosters, and players who make the cut need to register with AAU and pay team fees.
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This rewrite aims for a friendly and engaging tone while covering the essential points about joining AAU Basketball and its processes.