Maryland Amateur Athletic Union

 

 

Starting a Team

Very often parents and coaches are interested in starting their own AAU teams, and want to know how it's done. It is more simple than most would believe. Keep in mind, anybody can start a team, it is becoming an AAU member that matters. It is a simple two step process. After becoming an AAU member, you must abide by the rules set forth by the AAU which are available in the AAU code book for 1997. So if you are interested in starting an AAU team, here are some instructions and some tips:

Step 1. Gather a several players interested in playing (minimum of 8, maximum of 15, per the AAU National Championships)

  • Team members must live within the Maryland Association as determined by the AAU Code Book. The geographical area includes: all counties in the state except Prince George and Montgomery Counties .
  • Tip: When organizing a team, players should by organized according to their AAU determining age division. A player's division is determined by her birthdate. A player may play up but may never play down. Therefore, when organizing a team consider the age and division of the oldest player. It is my opinion a coach should not play a team up due to one players age. Rather, It suggested that the coach find another team for the player that forces your team to play at the next level. There are plenty of other teams available for players to participate with.
  • Tip to Parents as well as Coaches: Most girls who participate in Maryland Association basketball are at a much higher level then your average local Parks and Recreation team. Therefore, although you believe your player (or team) is superior to her classmates, she will be better served playing on a team of her AAU determined age division.

Step 2. Once you have determined that you are interested in coaching and you have players interested in playing, you will want to apply for an AAU Club or Team Membership. Team membership as well as coaches memberships and player memberships are needed.

  • Tip: Make sure that each player fills out a membership form before their feet touch the floor. Memberships are effective immediately. You may want to print out the membership form and take it with you to tryouts or practice and have each kid fill it out and send it back.

 

Age Determining Date

January 1st, at 12:00 a.m., shall be the determining date for the age of the competitor and shall hold true for the Association and National Championships.

 

Age Divisions

Competition in girls basketball shall be in the following age divisions:
10-Under, 11-Under, 12-Under, 13-Under, 14-Under, 15-Under, 16-Under, 17-Under, and 18-Under at the AAU Junior Olympic Games.

And now you are an AAU Membership Team

Now that you are an official AAU team keep checking our site for AAU sanctioned tournaments, leagues or other events.

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