As with each year, representative tryouts can be extremely difficult, particularly this year with a record number of athletes attending tryouts. At a young age, our feedback is broad as the opportunities/areas for players to improve are so wide and varied at this level of physical maturation. With that being said, we encourage each athlete to continue to focus and work on the FAB FIVE (Passing, Shooting, Dribbling, Footwork, Defence).

We have a detailed style of play that helps with our selection along with our player development guide covering 1vs1 Defence, 1vs1 Offence, Shooting Ability, Competitiveness, Decision Making, and Physical Literacy. Some areas may be out of their control currently but continuing to improve in these areas will help any athlete wanting to take their basketball further. If appropriate, even becoming elite at one can go a long way.

Below are three general suggestions for those who may not have made a rep team currently and are looking to develop:

1st – Play more basketball. Ask to join a school team, play up an age group or join another domestic team elsewhere. It sometimes sounds simple, but the more you play, the better you can become. For example, we recommend athletes get around in U12 get around 250 deliberate shots per week while U16 and above are closer to 500+ per week. A previous or current representative athlete may spend 8+ hours per week playing basketball, so we would suggest they get close to that number. The number 1 long-term factor in a player’s development is a passion for the game.

2nd  - To play in the highest standard domestic division where possible. You will need to speak with your domestic club as this may not always be possible nor recommended, but should help with the competitiveness and provide a development environment each week like representative basketball.

3rd - We would suggest finding a private coach who has a track record of developing players and understands what is required to make a rep team.
We do offer a domestic academy program at McKinnon that can assist otherwise there are several businesses within the local area that may be able to assist.

While doing the above will assist, it does not guarantee placement the following year as places are limited each year. With some extra work and a continued love of the game, they will continue to be in a better position each year.

If a player has been selected and is seeking feedback on the development, please follow the steps below:

1. Be patient - while teams are selected in October, further player movement may be required. Ultimately the TEAM number your child has fallen is irrelevant in the big picture as teams may grade in the same divisions, particularly in the early years. It is more important that each player finds a passion for the game, and continues to develop important life skills.

2. Speak with your team’s Head Coach on establishing a plan for development. Don’t do this immediately after tryouts but within the first couple of months of training/games as coaches learn more about individual players. Set a plan for individual development and work towards achieving both the individual and team goals. This may involve signing up for additional programs like ADP or externally.
   
   When appropriate, arrange a time to speak with your respective VJBL Head Coach who can assist with further advice, should you require extra assistance.