Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS THE SOCAL BASKETBALL PROGRAM?

We’re a community driven youth basketball organization for kids from kindergarten through 12th grade in Los Angeles and Orange County. Players get 1–2 real games per week with no monthly fees, and we’re expanding throughout Southern California.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO JOIN?

The games are free. The only costs to start are:
- $35 reversible jersey (one-time, yours to keep)
- $100 attendance commitment fee (ensures that players stay committed to the games)
- Spectators pay a $15 door fee to help cover gym rental, referees, scorekeepers, advertising, and admin.

WHAT IS THE $100 ATTENDANCE COMMITMENT FEE?

Because the program is free, we need to ensure players who sign up actually show up. The fee encourages consistent attendance so teams can form properly. You get the full $100 back when your child participates for the season.

WHAT IF MY CHILD MISSES A GAME?

Missing a game is fine as long as you let us know ahead of time. Communication is the key.

WHAT IF WE DON’T SHOW UP WITHOUT NOTICE?

Unannounced no-shows hurt the experience for other players. We just ask for basic communication and respect for the other kids. Imagine your child is excited, they show up Saturday ready to play, and only 3 kids are there. We have to cancel the game. Your child doesn’t get to play. That’s not fair to the families who showed up.

WHAT ARE ALL THE COSTS?

• $35 jersey
• $100 attendance commitment fee (get back at the end of the season)
• $15 spectator door fee
• $0 monthly fees — the games themselves are free.

WHY IS THERE A DOOR FEE FOR SPECTATORS?

The $15 spectator fee covers gym rental, referees, scorekeepers, advertising, and admin. It allows us to keep the games free for the kids.

WHAT DOES THE FREE PROGRAM INCLUDE?

Players get 1–2 games per week, each one hour long. Games are supervised by trained coaches and referees in a pool-style format, which builds skills and helps kids meet new teammates.

WHERE ARE GAMES HELD?

At gyms throughout Orange County. We’re expanding into additional areas around Southern California.

DO YOU HAVE OTHER PROGRAMS?

Yes. We offer an upgraded competitive program for families seeking more training and structure. Most families start with the free games first.

HOW DO I REGISTER MY CHILD?

Register online or by phone. You’ll complete a short form, submit waivers, and pay the jersey fee and attendance commitment fee. After that, your player is assigned to an age group and receives a schedule.

ARE SPOTS LIMITED?

Yes. To maintain quality and safety, enrollment is capped. Registration is first-come, first-served.

CAN MY CHILD JOIN MID-SEASON?

If space is available, yes. Pool-style basketball makes it easy to place new players at any time.

WHAT IF MY CHILD WANTS MORE BASKETBALL?

Once they’re playing and enjoying the game, we can introduce the upgraded competitive program.

WHAT IS THE GAME SCHEDULE?

Players get 1–2 games per week for about one hour each. Days and times depend on age group and gym availability.

HOW LONG IS THE SEASON?

Season length varies by gym availability. Typical seasons run 10–12 weeks.

CAN PARENTS WATCH GAMES?

Absolutely. Families are welcome. Spectators pay the $15 door fee; players always enter free.

WHAT SHOULD MY CHILD BRING?

Basketball shoes (or athletic shoes), the program jersey, water, and a positive attitude.

HOW CAN YOU OFFER FREE GAMES?

We’re funded through community donations. Spectator fees cover gym rental, referees, scorekeepers, advertising, and administrative costs.

IS THE PROGRAM SUSTAINABLE?

Yes. Our model is based on 15 years of successful programs operating in the Bay Area.

CAN I DONATE TO SUPPORT THE PROGRAM?

Yes. Donations help us expand and serve more kids.

WHY POOL-STYLE INSTEAD OF FIXED TEAMS?

Pool-style play helps kids learn different positions, adapt to new teammates, and build skills. It’s ideal for beginners and casual players. Families wanting a fixed team can explore the upgraded program.

WHO SUPERVISES THE GAMES?

Trained coaches and referees who have passed background checks. We maintain a ratio of about 1 staff member for every 10–15 players.

CAN I VOLUNTEER?

Yes. We need volunteer coaches and referees. A background check and training are required.

WHAT IF I HAVE OTHER VOLUNTEER SKILLS?

We’re always open to additional help. Let us know your area of interest.

WHAT SAFETY MEASURES DO YOU HAVE?

Background-checked staff, first aid trained personnel, liability insurance, and established youth safety protocols.

WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?

Since games are indoors, cancellations are rare. If a facility issue occurs, families will be notified at least 2 hours before game time.

WHAT IF MY CHILD HAS NEVER PLAYED BEFORE?

Perfect. Complete beginners are welcome. Pool-style play creates a low-pressure learning environment.