Frequently Asked Questions…
What is AAU? The Amateur Athletic Union is a national organization dedicated to amateur sports and physical fitness programs. Please see our links page for websites that can provide additional information re the national and local associations.
How are players selected for Panther teams? The Panthers hold open tryouts in the fall and winter depending on the team. Tryout information can be found on our website. Players are encouraged to attend each tryout so that the coaches can evaluate them fairly.
What happens when tryouts conflict with other commitments? If unavoidable conflicts arise, please make them known to Donnie Forster (Boys teams) or John Griff (Girls teams).
How many teams are there? There are normally 1-2 teams in each age group. Teams are assembled according to ability and commitment level.
How are age groups determined? Age groupings are determined by the AAU. Boys teams use Sep 1; Girls teams use Jul 1. Examples: Boys 10U are those born after Sep 1, 1996 Girls 10U are those born after Jul 1, 1996
What is involved in the commitment to a Panther team? A complete effort. Additionally, it is expected that players will attend all practices and be available for all games. There will always be conflicts, and all Panther coaches are sensitive to player and family commitments outside basketball. However, absences are disruptive to teams and impact a player’s teammates. Communication with coaches is an essential ingredient to managing conflicts successfully.
How often do the teams practice, and how many games do they play? Teams typically have two practices per week mid March through June. Some teams practice through July and during the fall. Teams will play in 6 to 12 tournaments, mostly on weekends. Tournaments typically include four to eight games depending on format and how well a team does. What are the fees? Are there additional expanses? The fee for the spring and summer season is $650. The fee for the fall season (certain teams only) is $150. The fees do not cover the cost of travel. However, a portion of travel expenses is defrayed through the Club’s fund raising efforts.
What are the Panther’s fund raising efforts? The Club conducts various fund raising efforts throughout the year including: soliciting corporate and personal donations, “grocery store” sessions, and raffles. Additionally, the Panthers host the Adidas Junior Phenom Camps in New Jersey. Individual teams may conduct discreet fund raising efforts depending on the expense of their travel schedule.
Are any Panther representatives paid? All Panther officers and coaches are volunteers – there are no paid positions.
What are the qualifications to be a Panther Coach? There are few professions or even roles in which an individual is addressed by his or her title. “Coach” is one of them, and we are aware of the enormous responsibility the title implies. The Panthers seek and select coaches who have a passion for teaching and for the game. Our coaches must prioritize player development above all else, including the life lessons available through the game. We take great pains to select coaches who share the values described in our Mission Statement. Typically, our coaches have had significant experience as coaches and as players. The respective age groups require varying teaching and leadership skills, issues that the Club explores when interviewing prospective coaches
What about team communications? Team communication disciplines are defined at the team level and are reviewed in the Parent Meeting after teams are selected.
What are the goals of the Panthers program? The Panthers goals are clearly outlined in our Mission statement. Please see tab on our Home page.