Frequently asked Questions

Is PYBA Travel Basketball open to all students?

PYBA Travel Basketball is designed for more advanced players who are ready for competitive play. Because of this, not all players will make a travel team.

We hold formal tryouts for grades 4–8, and teams are formed based on:

• Skill level

• Coachability & attitude

• Hustle & effort

• Basketball IQ

• Team fit and overall roster needs

Players who do not make a travel team are still encouraged to:

• Participate in Community Ed basketball

• Join PYBA skills clinics

• Attend off-season development sessions

• Try out again next year — many players make huge improvements!

• Practices & Schedules

  • How often do teams practice?
  Typically 1–2 practices per week, depending on grade level and gym availability.

  • Where are practices held?
  Practices are held in the Pillager school gyms unless otherwise noted.

  • How do I find my team’s schedule?
  Schedules will be posted on your team’s Coaching Hub page and updated as gym times change. Coaches also share updates via Heja.

  Games & Tournaments

  • How many tournaments do teams play?
  Most teams play 3–5 tournaments, depending on grade level and coach choice.

  • Are tournaments included in registration fees?
  Each team receives 1 tournament covered by PYBA. Additional tournaments must be approved and are paid by the team (using fundraising or pooled funds).

  • Who chooses which tournaments the team attends?
  Coaches submit a tournament request form, and PYBA approves based on availability, cost, and competitiveness.

  Volunteering & Fundraising

  • Does PYBA require volunteering?
  Yes—PYBA is a volunteer-run nonprofit, and parent support helps keep fees low. Volunteer opportunities include:
  – Score table
  – Concessions
  – Fundraisers
  – Team events
  – Tournament hosting

  • How does PYBA fundraise?
  We do a mix of local fundraisers (like grocery bagging), Adopt-A-Huskie sponsorships, and business partnerships.

  Coaching & Background Checks

  • How do I apply to coach?
  All coaching applications are submitted through the Coaching Hub. Applicants go through:
  – Application
  – Review Committee evaluation
  – Background check
  – Coaching expectations agreement

  • Do coaches receive training?
  Yes. Coaches get access to sample practice plans, drills, rules, expectations, and ongoing support.

  Fees & Financial Assistance

  • What is the cost to participate?
  Fees vary by grade level and program. Full pricing is posted on the Registration page.

  • Is financial assistance available?
  Yes! PYBA offers assistance for families who need support. Apply confidentially through the Assistance Request Form.

  Uniforms & Equipment

  • What equipment does my child need?
  Players should bring:
  – Basketball shoes
  – Water bottle
  – Appropriate size basketball (coaches will specify)

  Communication

  • How does PYBA communicate with families?
  Primary communication happens through:
  – Email
  – Website updates
  – Heja (team app)
  – PYBA Facebook Page

  • Who do I contact with questions?
  Use our Contact Form anytime! Board members reply as quickly as possible.

  Refunds & Cancellations

  • What is the refund policy?
  Refunds vary depending on the stage of the season. See our Refund Policy section for full details. Generally no refunds after uniforms are ordered.

  General Program Questions

  • Is PYBA part of the school?
  PYBA is not run by the school district. We are a community-based nonprofit that uses school gyms through a facility agreement.

  • What’s the difference between Community Ed basketball and PYBA travel basketball?
  Community Ed is recreational and local.
  PYBA is competitive travel with higher-level training and tournaments.