Grades 7-8

Our FOCUS continues to be on the value of teamwork, skill development, cooperation, sportsmanship and respect for others. At the traveling level, more emphasis is placed on team development and equal playing time is not guaranteed. Winning is not the primary focus, however, more emphasis is placed on competing and striving to win. Recognizing that individuals will have different skills and needs, a positive environment will be created to foster contribution, accomplishment, confidence and a feeling of self-worth in all players. Each participant will be treated fairly and know they are an important part of the team. All contributions are valued.

For those players interested in a more competitive level of play, a traveling league is offered with weekend tournaments. The WMYBA reserves the right to choose between league play, tournaments, or both for their 7th and 8th grade teams. Traveling basketball requires a greater commitment, in that each participant is expected to attend all practices, league games and weekend tournaments. This traveling team program is formed of our best players to compete with the best players from other communities in the metro area. Traveling programs are formed according to age guidelines set by the MYAS. Tryouts, if necessary, are conducted by the boys and girls varsity coaches or their designees.

The season runs from November through mid March. Typically we have one game and one practice a week (space permitting). Practices are typically held once a week on Saturdays at the middle or high school gyms. Games & tournaments are held on Saturdays. Once school ball begins, teams will no longer have weekly practices. Schedules will be available either before or at the first practice.

Program Coordinators:

Coordinator: Al Barfknecht 952-955-3836

Our GOALS are to:

Provide effective, high quality training for players and coaches at all levels.
Provide programs that are cooperative with, and respected by, other community programs.
Strive to create a fun and entertaining environment for the players, families, coaches and community.
Seek to maximize the potential of every player in the program.
Foster the importance of teamwork and the understanding that all team members play an integral part in the success of the team.
Promote skill development and create a positive self-esteem for every player.
Encourage and foster player participation for the full length of a player’s youth sports career.
Develop players and teams that are able to compete at a top level.

Policy Manual & League Rules