Choosing the right program

Finding the right AAU or youth program for your student-athlete can be difficult process. There are so many AAU program and youth league options that exist. Navigating through these options can be confusing, overwhelming, and frustrating for parents.  Kids and parents are drawn to teams with winning records, corporate sponsors, brand names, friends or the team that can get them the most “exposure”.  Whatever reason you use to choose your program - make sure that reason aligns with your goals for your student-athlete.  Here are five things that players and parents can consider when selecting the "right" program.  💯

1. What is the program or team’s mission statement? 

Every team or program has a catchy motto or slogan, but how many programs have a true mission statement, and actually adhere to it?  When looking for a team, it is highly recommended that you ask the director of the program what their mission statement is, and how are they going to fulfill this promise.  Are wins and losses the focus? What is the director's goal for each student-athlete when they are done with their program?   

2.  Is your child developing and growing as a player and a person?

Youth sports have one true purpose, “Development.” The coaches, trainers are there to help develop young players through the game of sport, both mentally and physically.  Yet, some programs get too caught up with "winning" and forget that they also have the responsibility to prepare young men and women for life.  The value in a good program comes from teaching responsibility, accountability, communication, leadership, hard work, discipline and respect.  These lessons are not only limited to how they translate on the field or court, but also how they are applicable in life.  

3.  Is he/she getting any play time?

We all want the best for our kids, but riding the bench on a good team does not translate to your child getting better.  In most cases, if your child is just sitting on the bench, then most likely your child still needs development on some level, whether it be situational skills, or mental preparation.  A lot of this development only comes with playing time.  In this case, sitting on the bench for an elite team "just because" is actually hurting the player's development.  Ask questions - Does the coaching staff take the time to explain why your child is not playing, or what they need to do to improve in difficult areas?

4.  Are you able to give feedback or ask questions on your child’s development?

Some coaches can be very intimidating, but remember you are paying for a service and you have the right to ask questions.  Now understand, with that right, you may also get a response that you may not like.  As a parent, you can ask about your child’s development, but try to steer away from questioning the coach about his coaching strategy, such as substitution strategy and play calling, to name a few.  Also remember, you have the right to remove your child from the program if your are not pleased.

5.  Tournament Selection

Tournaments present great opportunities for teams and players to get exposure on a bigger platform.  Many teams and players get ranked after performing well at a well-attended tournament that has a good amount of media coverage.  Inquire about some of the tournaments that programs are attending, and do your research on how well-attended the tournaments are.  Your time and money are valuable. We suggest that you do not waste them on tournaments that you don’t find valuable. Their are great applications such as Exposure Events to let you know additional information on any upcoming tournament.  

Remember the goal is to find the best fit possible for your student-athlete.  There is a place for every child in youth sports, but the reality is that not every athlete will get the opportunity to make his/her high school team, or even play at the collegiate level.  Every parent will need to find that balance between following a dream, and competing at a level that is compatible with your child’s ability.  We hope that you find the program that fits you and your child best.  Good luck!