1st/2nd Grade League Rules

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This league is designed for players in grades 1st and 2nd with a focus on learning and fun. Our goal is to introduce kids to the basics of basketball in a positive and supportive environment. We prioritize skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship over competition. All players will have equal playing time, and the focus will be on helping each child grow at their own pace. Please encourage your kids to enjoy the process, and remember that this is a learning experience for everyone!

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1. Game Length and Structure

Game Duration: 2 Halfs of 25 Minutes

Running Clock: Only stop for subsitutions, injuries, or end of quarter.

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2. Court and Equipment

Court Size: 58x42

Basket Height: 8 Feet

Ball Size: Size 5 basketball (27.5 inches)

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3. Team Composition

Team Size: 5v5, with a max of 9 players per team to ensure all kids get plenty of playing time.

Substitutions: Every 5 Minutes, Game will stop

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4. Defense

Man-to-Man Defense Only: man-to-man defense to teach kids fundamental defensive skills.

No Double Teaming: To avoid overwhelming young players, there will be no double teaming allowed.

No Full-Court Press: Only half-court defense (behind the 3 point line) is allowed to give players more time to advance the ball.

 

5. Offense

Passing Rule: Teams must make at least 1 pass before a shot to promote teamwork.

Time in the Key: No 3-second violations; instead, we'll be encouraging players to move out of the key area.

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6. Scoring

Points: Regular scoring (2 points per basket, no 3 pointers).

Focus on Fun: We'll be keeping track of score but will be de-emphasizing the importance of the score to focus more on skill-building.

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7. Free Throws

Free Throw Line: 10 feet from the basket

Shooting Technique: We will continue to focus on helping kids develop proper shooting form over making shots.

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8. Sportsmanship and Conduct

Equal Playing Time: All players will get equal playing time regardless of skill level.

Positive Coaching and Encouragement: Coaches will be on the court and will be focuing on teaching, being positive, and giving equal attention to all players.

No Fouling Out: Instead of disqualifying players after 5 fouls, we will provide a teachable moment and substitute them out for a short time before returning.

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9. Game Flow

Possession Arrow: Possession arrow for alternating possession after each quarter or tied-up ball.

Out-of-Bounds Plays: Players will have time to inbound the ball (No 5 Second Violation)

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10. Refereeing

Simplified Rules Enforcement: Referees will enforce basic rules but focus on teaching instead of calling every violation (e.g., minor traveling or double dribbles should be corrected rather than penalized).

Referee Guidance: Referees can explain calls to players to help them understand the game.

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11. Parental Involvement

Parents should cheer for all the kids and focus on positive reinforcement.

Limit sideline coaching to avoid overwhelming the players.