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Welcome to the January 8, 2010; edition of the MYAS Update
In this Issue
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MYAS Update Info
Our newsletter is designed to provide timely youth sports information to coaches, athletes, parents and administrators. It includes notes from the Executive Director, sport program information, calendar reminders, new service announcements and special events information. Contributions from sponsors assist us in delivering high quality youth sports services at the lowest possible cost and partially fund this newsletter, and certain sponsors will be featured.
Gingerbread Home Champions!
The Radisson Hotel Bloomington hosted the first-ever "Extreme Makeover - Gingerbread Home Edition" contest over the recent holiday season. The rules were simple: Each participating company could have a building staff of up to 10 people, and the only supplies teams were given were the makings for a "starter" gingerbread house. Each company was supposed to design their house in a theme that represented their business.
In the end, the Radisson received a total of seven entries - including corporate giants like Toro, Carlson Wagonlit and Nash Finch. The houses were on display at the hotel from December 17, 2009, through January 6, 2010.
The MYAS team of Jessica Christopherson, Dara Northfield, Siri Forde, Joanne Powell and Deb Dahl won in a landslide, collecting 438 votes (nearly half of the total cast) for best overall house. Congratulations!
Pictured L-R: Jessica Christopherson, Siri Forde, Dara Northfield, Joanne Powell; not pictured: Deb Dahl
Dan's Notes - from Executive Director Dan Klinkhammer
"GIVE ME THE BALL!" MENTALITY
I played my first competitive basketball game when I was in fifth grade at St. Mary's Grade School in Bloomington, WI. Frankly, I didn't know the first thing about basketball when the season started. All I knew was that I was expected to go out for the team. Prior to that winter all I ever did was throw, catch and hit baseballs in the summer and toss, catch and kick a football on the school playground. I had never played competitively against anyone other than my classmates and neighbors. Playing grade school basketball was going to be my first experience playing against kids I didn't know from other schools in the area.
I'll never forget my first basketball game. We destroyed our opponent with a resounding 6-4 victory. That's right, that score isn't a typo. We won 6-4...in overtime. Yours truly made two free throws with about a minute and a half left in overtime and that was good enough to clinch our first win.
As I look back at that day, all that really comes to mind is how awful it must have been for my coaches and parents to watch that dreadful display of youth basketball. Think about it: a total of 10 points was scored in four 6-minute quarters and a complete 3-minute overtime. It was quite the game, but the weird stuff came later in the locker room and at our practice sessions to follow.
Apparently anytime someone makes a couple free throws to win a game, it makes them some sort of "go-to guy" for the rest of their life. I overheard the coaches talking about how they had to get me more involved in the game plan. The other kids were still slapping my back and congratulating me well into the next week. At practice all I heard was, "Get it to Klink! Get it to Klink!" The nuns even got into the act with, "We heard you won the game for us last weekend." As my chest puffed out and my head swelled up, all I could think of was how glad I was that I closed my eyes on both of those shots!
Yes, that was the beginning of many last minute heroics to follow. For whatever reason, it just seemed like the baseball, basketball or football would end up in my hands when the game was on the line. I don't know if the coaches wanted it that way or if it was destiny calling or if it was just confidence, but it seemed to happen most of the time. In fact, it happened so often that I became pretty comfortable with the idea of having the added pressure of taking the last shot, flinging the final pass or diving for a ground ball in the hole to end the game. By the time I was a junior in high school the whole concept of last minute drives, last second shots and remarkable catches became rather normal and expected. In fact, I used to spend my pre-game "meditation time" visualizing making those great plays at the end of the game. I am a huge proponent of the power of visualization
because it makes sense to me that if you can see yourself doing it, you can do it. (I'll have more on that in a future article.)
Now before I go any further with my "give me the ball" philosophy, let's take a quick look at the other end of the spectrum. I am referring to the kids who are basically scared to succeed and too scared to fail. In my book, an athlete needs to be willing to shoulder the credit or the blame for the result of that final shot, pitch or touchdown. In other words, I want someone who will at least try to make the last second basket or touchdown or get the big hit. I have always been amazed at how many players "choke" when the game is on the line. For whatever reason, they do not have the confidence to take the last shot. They want someone else to win it or lose it, but they aren't willing to take the chance of being the hero or the goat. In my opinion, that's a sad way to live your life. I'd rather go down swinging. Win or lose, I want to know that I gave it my best shot
and didn't rely on someone else to win me the blue ribbon.
In my world, I want a kid who will throw caution to the wind and make the effort to win the game. In my huddle, I want everyone begging for the ball when it counts the most. I want them all to be screaming, "Give me the ball!" This brings me to the point of this article. Coaches, you need to teach your players to have that "give me the ball" mentality.
So here's my tip for the New Year: Teach all of your players to take the last shot. Practice different plays with different kids taking that last shot. It will be lots of fun for everyone. Make sure that everyone gets a fair chance to get comfortable with the idea that they may be called upon to take that last shot. By doing so, you show confidence in ALL of your players and you'll end up having more options when the time comes for that final play of the game. Some kids are naturals at handling pressure-packed situations and others need to learn how to cope with those win or lose final plays. A good coach will make sure that everyone on the team is prepared to contribute when called upon.
Now that I've had some time to think about it, I don't ever remember telling the coach to give me the ball. I didn't have to - they knew I wanted it and they also knew who didn't. Players: what message are you sending to your coach?
Borton's Bench Notes
Brrrrrrrrr! People often wonder if we ever leave our homes or step outside in this winter weather here in Minnesota! I smile and say everyone enjoys the outdoors during this time of the year or they are in a gym working on their basketball skills. My staff and I have been out to see many games and practices and have spoken to some of you - and girls' basketball is becoming bigger and better each year in Minnesota. Keep up the good work!
During this time of the year, it's easy to forget how much we have and how little so many people around the world have. The holidays and the beginning of a New Year often make each one of us stop and evaluate 2009 and how we can make 2010 better for ourselves and those around us! Just take a moment to yourself, close the door, take some time alone in the car before you get to work or before you get home and reflect for a few moments.
First, think back to what 2009 meant to you personally. Yes, just you! Second, what did the year mean to you professionally at work? Are you making a difference in peoples' lives and are you enjoying what you do? Third, what happened within your family that you can be proud of or learn from to continue strengthening those relationships? I hope you have some time to reflect upon what this past year meant to you and that you are able to write these things down. We're all going in many directions on a daily basis, trying to multi-task; there aren't enough hours in the day. I'm sure you feel this way some days, but please take the time to reflect. I know you will find this healthy and helpful to focus on how to get more out of 2010 and to make it an even better year in all aspects of your life.
It is easy to forget how much we are blessed with. Don't take your abilities and all you have in your life for granted. There are many people who would love to be in your shoes! I am thankful that I am a Golden Gopher and have the opportunity to work with motivated and bright student/athletes each day. I have a fun and committed staff that I enjoy being around each day and, most importantly, I treasure my family and friends - the most important people in my life. I hope you feel the same way!
In closing, I enjoy the four seasons in Minnesota...not so sure if winter is my favorite though! I would like to hear from you on how your year is going in the youth basketball programs. Please take advantage of us as a resource. That is what we are here for.
Sports Medicine Tip
Concussion Update - Not Just a Bell Ringer
By Sarah Lehnert, M.D., CAQ
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). It occurs from a direct blow to the head or elsewhere on the body with an impulsive force transmitted to the head. This type of injury causes a disturbance of brain function and information processing. Someone with a concussion may experience a wide array of symptoms. Functions that control coordination, learning, memory and emotions are most commonly affected. Health care providers determine whether a concussion has occurred by assessing signs and symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
These may include but are not limited to:
- Altered mental status including confusion, inappropriate emotions, agitation or abrupt change in personality
- Blurred vision/double vision/seeing stars or black spots
- Dizziness, poor balance or unsteadiness
- Excessive or persistent headache
- Excessive fatigue/feeling slowed down
- Feeling "in a fog"
- Loss of consciousness
- Amnesia/memory problems
- Loss of orientation
- Vomiting
- Nervousness
- Poor balance/coordination
- Ringing in ears
- Excessive sensitivity to light or loud noise
- Vacant stare/glassy-eyed
Concussion - So What?
It is true that most concussions heal without issues or complications if handled properly. However, like any other injury, a brain injury should be given time to heal. Time to heal includes mental rest (free from mental straining and visual stimuli like video gaming and texting) and physical rest.
One of the most severe complications of brain trauma is intracranial bleeding or the development of a hematoma. The skull has no ability to expand to allow for brain swelling. If bleeding or swelling of the brain occurs, pressure in the skull rises and can cause brain injury. Hematomas develop immediately after an injury or hours later, so monitoring symptoms is crucial. Bleeding from a brain injury is life threatening.
Although it is difficult to predict, there are certain groups who appear to be more susceptible to prolonged or lasting symptoms after a concussion. Certain genetics, the female gender and the developing brain of adolescents are all risk factors for prolonged, more severe symptoms after a concussion.
When should I seek additional medical attention?
Worsening symptoms, prolonged loss of consciousness at time of injury, seizure and symptoms that won't go away are all red flags and reason to seek medical attention. X-rays do not show brain function and are not helpful in determining severity. Other special medical tests are not routinely ordered in determining a plan of care. At your physician's discretion, a CT scan of the brain may be necessary to determine uncommon complications related to concussion.
When am I safe to return to play?
The athlete should be free of symptoms and have the ability to concentrate inside and outside the classroom and to sleep and eat as normal prior to injury. Once the athlete has returned to normal and no longer exhibits any symptoms at rest, they are ready to try some activities that increase their heart rate. Increase activity over time as long as symptoms do not return. Progressive or graded return to participation will allow the opportunity to assess whether the brain has healed properly.
Under no circumstances should an athlete return to play while still experiencing signs or symptoms. There should be no return the same day once it is determined that symptoms exist that could be a concussion.
About the author
Dr. Lehnert, M.D., CAQ, is a non-surgical orthopedic and sports medicine physician who sees patients of all ages at Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care in Burnsville. She provides care for a broad spectrum of muscle, bone and joint conditions with the goal to maximize performance, prevent injury and return individuals to sport and daily life activities as quickly as possible. Dr. Lehnert is team physician for the University of St. Thomas and Burnsville High School. She also provides medical coverage for Minnesota State High School League tournaments, the Twin Cities Marathon and the USA Cup soccer tournament. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lehnert, please call 952-460-4900.
Then And Now - by Larry Gallagher
Role Models and Ethics
Have you ever wondered why you look up to professional athletes as role models for your life? I am sure that all of us as young people looked at someone who was famous and attached qualities to them that they both deserved and did not deserve.
As a young boy, I listened to and watched all of the very talented athletes and wanted to be just like them. As I began to grow up and learned that I was not going to reach the skill levels that some of those heroes of mine had, I realized that I was not going to become the next great Paul Giel, Bronko Nagurski, George Mikan, Willie Mays, Roy Campanella or Yogi Berra. I had learned an important lesson, that having heroes is a good thing but we cannot all be as skilled as they are even if we received good coaching and had all the desire in the world. They had more innate talent in their sports endeavors than I did. However, learning that did not prevent me from becoming the best I could be in whatever endeavor that I did have a talent.
When I look back on life, I believe that all young people need to have heroes because we need to look into other people's lives to discover the talents we do have. Sometimes our heroes are not the celebrity type but are parents, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts or even grandparents. Sometimes our heroes are other people we meet along the journey such as teachers, coaches, or someone who helps us learn a skill or trade. This is a good thing.
Why do I bring these ideas up today in regards to ethics in sport? I do it to point out that we need to develop our own sense of worth as an ethical human being. What I mean by this is that we cannot let the poor choices that some of our heroes have made in their lives affect how we should lead our lives. When we see professional athletes or entertainers choose to be deceitful on or off the field, court or stage, we must realize that they are no better or worse than anyone else but that they made a bad choice.
There is much talk about Tiger Woods' personal life and how high on the pedestal he was placed by everyone in the world of golf and beyond, but he also made some bad choices in regards to his personal life that have now made his life a mess. Is he any different from you and me? Of course he is because of his fame and the skills he has in golf. However, he is the same as you and me in that we could have made poor choices like he made in his personal life. When I see all of this blown up in the media, I feel sorry for anyone who has to go through having their personal life splashed all over the media. I feel sorry not only for Tiger and anyone who is in a similar position, but also for those who have placed him on that pedestal because it affects their lives as well. We all need to look at this situation and many others to help us learn how to (or how not to) lead our own lives.
I became a teacher and coach because of some of the teachers and coaches I had when I was younger. Many of them gave me so much time and energy that I wanted to be like them. I also learned what people I did not want to be like because they were either lazy or really did not show they cared about me as a person or player.
My point is that we should learn from everyone we encounter. They can teach us a lot about how to live or how not to live our lives. We have all done some things in our lives that we are not proud of and therefore we are no better than some of the Tiger Woods, Kobie Bryants or other professionals who have committed indiscretions.
How about the poor sportsmanship that we see almost daily in games around the world? A player who gets into their opponent's face after dunking a basketball or scoring a touchdown or making a tackle is unsportsmanlike. It carries a penalty if discovered by the official. This creates a dilemma for an official who is trying to decipher what is legal and illegal regarding sportsmanship.
How has this type of behavior surfaced? Has it always been in sports and in real life? I am suggesting it has but in previous generations it was more subtle. Today it is more out in the open. Unsportsmanlike behavior has been there since the inception of any game. That is why rules have been written to prevent this type of behavior but like any rule that is written, the entire community involved with that game - all the people that are involved - must buy into preventing poor sportsmanship.
This starts in the home and works its way into the community, school or sponsoring organization. It involves the coaches, officials and administrators of programs to make it their dominating goal to make sure all the games are played with the ethics and sportsmanship they deserve.
I was watching the December 31, 2009, 60 Minutes segment on Tim Donaghy, the NBA referee who gambled on NBA games and had a 75-80% winning percentage based upon inside information he had about the officials working the games. Some of them would penalize certain players in the league because they thought these players were getting too big for their britches, so to speak.
This attitude by Donaghy and, if it exists with any official in any sport, is not what any official should ever do. There are some things that no official should ever do and one is to carry his personal prejudices about any player or coach on the court with him. There are good guys playing in every sport and there are some not so good guys playing also. No official should allow his personal bias to affect his making any call. Not only is that unprofessional, it is out and out cheating. All officials are trained to officiate the play and not the players. When an official officiates the play, they are not officiating the personalities. All players must be penalized when they break the rules and all players need to be rewarded when they make the great play. Officials must keep personal bias out of officiating.
Once all people buy into making the game fair for everyone, we will truly have excellent and fair competition. This goes back to parents, coaches, administrators, officials, players, etc. involved in our sport programs. There are many great life lessons that can be learned by being involved in sports.
Everyone involved needs to emerge from sports having learned to compete on a level playing field and that means illegal drugs, cheating, gambling, deceit and all other negative influences must be eradicated from all games.
If I were a young boy growing up today, I hope I would still be able to find a hero that I could look up to as not only a good player but also as someone who respects his opponent and the game they are playing.
Everything I have talked about here comes down to the simple Golden Rule of treating all people as you would like to be treated. Respect the players on the other team, your coaches and theirs, the officials and everyone involved with the game. Learn to play the game right and respect the game.
Midwest Regional Swim Meet
The 2010 Midwest Regional Swim Meet will take place on March 27-28 at the University of Minnesota Aquatic Center. Last year 1,384 athletes representing nine states competed and we expect the competition will only get tougher.
Registration for the 2010 meet is now open! We are very excited about the buzz surrounding this meet and fully expect to reach our capacity of 1,200 athletes prior to the entry deadline on February 22, 2010.
All registration information, including the event list, qualifying times and hotel information can be found on the Midwest Regional Swim Meet web page. You may also contact Jessica Christopherson at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
Don't miss out on your opportunity to compete against the best in the Midwest!
Gopher State Volleyball
The Gopher State Volleyball program is gearing up for the 2010 schedule of events! Listed below are the GSV events currently on our calendar:
February 27, 2010 * Block Party Tournament
March 20, 2010 * Future Stars Tournament
March 20, 2010 * MN Showcase
May 8-9, 2010 * USSSA State Tournament
TBD * Gopher State Summer League
If you would like more information on these events or are interested in hosting Gopher State Volleyball, please visit the MYAS Volleyball web page or contact Jessica Christopherson at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
Gopher State Wrestling
The entry packet for the 2010 MYAS Gopher State Wrestling Championships is posted!
The Championship has earned the reputation of being the toughest and best run tournament in Minnesota. In 2009 we had 900 registered wrestlers. The tournament has drawn athletes from Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Missouri, Michigan and California. Wrestlers from all states are eligible to participate in all Gopher State wrestling events.
The 2010 Gopher State Championship is scheduled for February 13-14. The tournament will once again be held at Monticello High School, which is quite possibly the best wrestling facility in the state.
The MYAS and the MYAS Wrestling Advisory Committee (Jeremy Innes, MYAS; Jeremy Barbe, MYAS; Chris Bahl, Stillwater; Tricia Charbonneau, Prior Lake; Chris Douglas, Byron; Josh Florell, Forest Lake; Kelly Loosbrock, Chaska; Nina McKee, Becker; Ben Moody, Blaine; Brian Schnappauf, Monticello; Chad Shilson, Osseo; Matt Sullivan, Lakeville) are proud to announce the following changes to the tournament for 2010:
- Identify top wrestlers in each weight class and position them so they don't meet until the later rounds
- Bigger brackets; modified some weight classes
- 1.5-minute periods for grades 5 & 6 and 7 & 8
- Offer a girls' division
- Increased effort to recruit wrestlers from other states
- Qualifier for the Ohio Tournament of Champions
The changes listed above are in addition to the current features of the Gopher State Wrestling Championships:
- Wrestlers from 7-8 different states each year
- Ability to view registered wrestlers on website
- High school certified officials
- Full-size mats for grades 7 & 8
- 32-person brackets
- Match-by-match results posted on website day after tournament
- Round-by-round results printed on-site during the tournament
- Great facility with ample seating
- Very well-run event; smooth tournament flow
- Tournament starts on time and is completed in a reasonable time
To access more information about the Gopher State Wrestling programs, please click on the appropriate link below. You may also contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org.
Gopher State Wrestling Championships
Gopher State K-6 Team Tournament
Youth Day with the Gophers
Football Rules of the Month
In our ongoing education mission, we would like to highlight three basic high school football rules. The answers appear later in the newsletter (see "In this Issue" for the link).
1. Player A1 throws a forward pass from his own 40-yard line. Player B1 intercepts on his 2-yard line and circles back into his end zone. While B1 is in the end zone, an official inadvertently sounds his whistle. What is the ruling?
2. It is fourth down and the line to gain is Team B's 45-yard line. Player A1, running near the sideline, is blocked by Player B1 on the 46 and he: (a) travels several feet in the air, landing out of bounds opposite B's 44 1/2-yard line; or (b) lands inbounds on B's 44 and slides out of bounds. What is the ruling in each case?
3. Team A has third down and seven yards to gain on Team B's 30. Player A1 leaps near the sideline to catch a pass near B's 30-yard line. A1 is driven out of bounds backwards by Player B2 while making the catch and lands outside the sideline at B's 32. What is the ruling?
MYAS Day with the Gopher Women's Basketball Team
Join us on January 24, 2010, in cheering on the University of Minnesota women's basketball team as they take on the Michigan State Spartans! There will be a special event exclusively for MYAS guests in the Williams Arena Club Room following the game. Coach Pam Borton and several of the Gopher women's basketball players will join us for autographs and pictures!
The MYAS would also like to recognize the STMA 4th grade girls' basketball team, coached by Tony Mosley, and the Maple Grove 4th grade girls' basketball team, coached by Dave Moline. These two teams will square off in a mini-game during halftime of the Gophers/Spartans game. Be there to help us cheer them on!
For ticket information, please click here to access the MYAS Day with the Gophers flyer. You may also contact Jessica Christopherson at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournaments
There are plenty of Super Saver Tournaments scheduled for this winter. The tournaments are offered on Saturdays and Sundays through early March for boys' and girls' teams in grades 4-12. Super Savers provide teams with three games in just one day! You will save money on gas and admission fees since you only have to travel to the tournament site once. The schedule is very easy and convenient.
Please click here to access the MYAS Winter Basketball web page where you can find more Super Saver information and the tournament registration form.
MYAS Gopher State Winter Basketball Tournaments
Gopher State Winter Basketball Invitationals are two-day events scheduled to bring you more basketball and more games. The goal of these tournaments is to feature bigger brackets and a wider variety of teams.
If you enjoy our MYAS Gopher State Invitational Tournaments in the spring, you will certainly like these winter invitational tournaments! Please click here to access more information on our winter basketball tournaments.
MYAS Gopher State Winter Basketball League
The 2009-10 MYAS Gopher State Winter Basketball League (formerly the BTBL and GMBL) is at the halfway point. We have seen a lot of great basketball already! The league playoffs will be held the weekend of February 20-21.
The Winter League provides opportunities for all levels of play. "A" (advanced), "B" (intermediate), "C" (beginning) and "Rec" (in-house) teams can all receive a quality 12-game schedule.
Additional league information, including schedules and results, is available on the Winter League web page. If you have further questions, please contact Kevin Wilson (boys) at 763-746-1712 or kevin@myas.org or Jessica Christopherson (girls) at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
MYAS Grade State Basketball Championships
The MYAS is looking forward to the 2010 Grade State Basketball Championships, and we hope that you will be able to participate in our version of March Madness. The 2010 event will take place on March 6-7 (girls) and March 13-14 (boys).
All of the tournament information is now available on the Grade State page of the MYAS website. If you have questions about the Grade State Championships, please contact Eric Rathke at 763-746-1730 or eric@myas.org.
We hope to see you this spring for March Madness - Minnesota Style!
Note to Coaches: Once your team is determined, please go to the Coaches Control Center on the MYAS website and enter your online roster. Once your roster is completed you will be able to determine which players will need grade verification. By finishing this step early, you will save yourself a lot of time and unnecessary paperwork.
MYAS Rec State Basketball Championship
Mark your calendars now for the 2010 MYAS Rec State Basketball Championship! The tournament will be held on March 20-21, 2010 at various locations in the metro area. The registration deadline is Friday, February 26.
The Rec State Championship is the premier state tournament for in-house and park & recreation teams. The tournament is held for boys' and girls' teams in grades 4-12 and features Division I (highest), II and III levels of play to accommodate all skill levels.
Don't miss out on the opportunity for your team to play in a big tournament with a championship environment! Registration materials are available on the Rec State Basketball portion of the MYAS website. If you have questions, please contact Kevin Wilson at 763-746-1712 or kevin@myas.org. GO REC STATE!
Gopher State Spring Basketball
Winter basketball is in full swing and we wish all the players and coaches a successful season. The 2010 Gopher State Spring Basketball season is not far away and we are working hard on some exciting additions to our spring tournament offerings.
In 2010, we will be co-hosting several "Elite" level tournaments with a few of our larger spring clubs. The Midwest Elite Shootout will be held on April 16-18 in St. Cloud and will be co-hosted by the MN Comets. The Midwest Elite Challenge (boys' teams only) will be co-hosted by the MN Magic in Bloomington on May 14-16. The Midwest Border Battle will be held in Hopkins on June 18-20 and co-hosted by 43 Hoops and MN Thunder. We are excited to partner with these clubs to bring in great competition from around the country.
Our final "Elite" event for 2010 will be the 10th Annual Gopher State Prep Showcase on July 17-18. This event will once again be held at Lakeville South High School. We are excited to announce that we have two teams from Australia coming to compete in the Prep Showcase this summer. Don't miss your chance to compete against or watch our new friends from Down Under!
If your organization is holding tryouts for your spring season and your teams will be playing with us, please contact us and we will advertise your tryouts on our website.
New to Gopher State Spring Basketball? Come to one of our free informational spring basketball meetings to find out everything you need to know regarding the Gopher State spring season. Meeting dates and locations will be posted on the spring basketball portion of our website once they are finalized.
Fundraising opportunities: We still have a couple of openings on our spring calendar. If you are interested in hosting a Gopher State spring basketball tournament, please contact Rich Penick at 763-746-1724 or rich@myas.org for more information.
If you want to play great competition and different opponents each weekend, be assured that trainers and tournament directors will be on site to oversee the games, and if you don't want to pay outrageous membership fees, then Gopher State is the place for you. The first weekend of play is March 27-28, 2010. Quality events are what we strive for - don't be fooled by imitations!
Basketball Rules of the Month
In our ongoing education mission, we would like to highlight three basic high school basketball rules. The answers appear later in the newsletter (see "In this Issue" for the link).
1. Team A is awarded an alternating-possession throw-in. Player A1 lobs the throw-in pass toward Player A2 who is breaking to the basket. The throw-in pass is too high and lodges between the ring and the backboard. What is the ruling?
2. Player A1 ends a dribble and then jumps and releases the ball on a try for a goal. Player B1 partially blocks the shot, but A1 secures control again while still in the air. A1 returns to the floor and dribbles to the basket and scores. What is the ruling?
3. Player A1 is dribbling in the backcourt and ends the dribble, but defensive pressure prevents a pass to Player A2. A1 then passes the ball so it touches Player B1. A1 recovers the loose ball in the backcourt and dribbles again. What is the ruling?
MYAS/Gopher State Baseball Tournament Listings
Gopher State Tournament of Champions (GSTC) qualifying tournament designations will be posted on the MYAS tournament listings web page on January 15. They will be designated with a "YES" in the right-hand column of the listing. All tournaments that would like to be considered for GSTC qualifier status must be added to the site by January 8, 2010.
Please check out the Youth Baseball Tournament listings on the MYAS website today!
Add your association tournament to the MYAS/Gopher State Tournament listings by clicking here.
For more information, please contact Tony Groff at 763-746-1728 or tony@myas.org.
MYAS Baseball Staff to Hold Annual Meeting
The MYAS baseball staff will hold the MYAS/Gopher State Baseball annual meeting on January 11, 2010 at 7:00pm at the Ramada Mpls. NW/Grand Rios in Brooklyn Park.
We will be discussing all 2010 MYAS baseball tournaments and any changes to GSTC procedures and qualification. We will also highlight some new programs and any other changes made to our programs for the upcoming year.
The meeting is scheduled to last no more than one hour and we will be available to answer any of your questions after the meeting has finished. We hope to see at least one representative from every Minnesota and western Wisconsin baseball association in attendance. The meeting will allow association directors and coaches an opportunity to get firsthand information and an understanding of all our programs. It is also a great way to kick off the 2010 youth baseball season. We hope to see you on January 11!
If you have any questions, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
Gopher State Winter Baseball Camps
Gopher State Winter Baseball Camp dates for 2009-10 are now posted on the Winter Camp section of the MYAS website. We are looking forward to the Martin Luther King Jr. Camps in January. First up is our MLK Hitting Camp with the Minnesota Baseball Academy in Rogers on Sunday, January 17, followed by our MLK Twins Training Camp on January 18 at the National Sports Center in Blaine.
Registration is also open for the Presidents Day Winter Camps in Rogers and Blaine. Take a look at the Winter Camp web page for more details and registration forms.
If you have questions please contact Jeremy Barbe at 763-746-1731 or jbarbe@myas.org.
All camps are filling up fast, so don't delay - sign up today!
MYAS Baseball Staff to Set Up Informational Meetings
We are currently setting up MYAS/Gopher State Baseball informational meetings for associations that would like to hear additional reasons why they should participate in the MYAS comprehensive baseball program. If you would like to schedule an informational meeting between the MYAS/Gopher State Baseball staff and your baseball association board of directors, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
Gopher State Baseball League
All 2010 Gopher State Baseball League team entry packets/enrollment forms will be available on the GSBL portion of the MYAS website and will be emailed to current Association Presidents/Travel Directors no later than Friday, February 19.
If you need to be added to the distribution list or are new to this role on your association baseball board, please email Dawson Blanck to provide him with updated contact information for your association.
GSBL News for 2010:
9U Open League & "A" Level Leagues added
Advisory Committee Results (changes for 2010)
Note on Bats for 2010
League Entry Deadline is March 26, 2010
9-15U League Scheduling Session is April 17, 2010
Continue to watch the Gopher State Baseball League web page for up to date information as we get closer to the 2010 baseball season.
Gopher State Spring Training Series Baseball Tournaments
NEW FOR 2010! The Gopher State Spring Training Series is a spring league that will be held on April 11, 18 and 25. The league will act as an early season tune-up or spring training for all 10-15 year old AAA and AA traveling teams. It allows teams an opportunity to play live games against other teams that will help prepare them for the start of the regular season.
The league has a six-game guarantee (doubleheaders each Sunday) with berths to the 2010 Gopher State Tournament of Champions awarded based on team records at the end of league play.
More information will be available on the Gopher State Spring Training Series web page by mid- to late January. If you have questions about this NEW league, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
Minnesota USSSA Baseball
The MYAS is proud to announce the 2010 Minnesota USSSA Baseball schedule. We had another fantastic year in 2009 with more than 1,000 registered teams. We look forward to the 2010 USSSA State Tournaments that combine great teams, venues and host organizations to offer an outstanding tournament experience for everyone involved. This is a tremendous event to participate in whether you intend to advance to a USSSA World Series or whether your intent is to earn a berth to the Gopher State Tournament of Champions in July.
Register early to secure your spot in this premier event. Applications are available on the USSSA State Baseball Tournament page of the MYAS website.
10AAA USSSA State Tournament * June 4-6 * Roseville, MN
10AA USSSA State Tournament * June 11-13 * Andover, MN
10A USSSA State Tournament * June 18-20 * site TBD
11AAA USSSA State Tournament * June 4-6 * Roseville, MN
11AA USSSA State Tournament * June 11-13 * Andover, MN
11A USSSA State Tournament * June 18-20 * site TBD
12AAA USSSA State Tournament * June 11-13 * Brooklyn Park, MN
12AA USSSA State Tournament * June 11-13 * Brooklyn Park, MN
12A USSSA State Tournament * June 18-20 * Mendota Heights, MN
13AAA USSSA State Tournament * June 25-27 * Mahtomedi, MN
13AA USSSA State Tournament * June 11-13 * Mendota Heights, MN
13A USSSA State Tournament * June 18-20 * Mendota Heights, MN
14AAA USSSA State Tournament * June 25-27 * Forest Lake, MN
14AA USSSA State Tournament * June 4-6 * Coon Rapids, MN
15AAA USSSA State Tournament * June 25-27 * Blaine, MN
15AA USSSA State Tournament * June 4-6 * Champlin, MN
14/15A USSSA State Tournament * June 25-27 * Robbinsdale/Plymouth, MN
16U Open USSSA State Tournament * June 25-27 * Fridley, MN
17/19U Open USSSA State Tournament * June 25-27 * site TBD
Keep checking the USSSA Baseball State Tournament web page for updates to this schedule or for more information on USSSA baseball in Minnesota.
MYAS Latest News (as of 1/7/10)
Basketball Tournament Openings
Gopher State Wrestling - New for 2010
2010 Youth Baseball Tournaments
2010 Rec State Basketball Championships
Annual Baseball Meeting - January 11th, 2010
Spring Basketball Tryout Promotion
Baseball Winter Camp Dates Are Set!
MYAS Day with the Gopher Women's Basketball Team
Are you looking for a basketball team to play on?
Insurance - USSSA Basketball
MYAS Calendar (as of 1/7/10)
Friday, January 8, 2010
Deadline to add tournaments to MYAS/Gopher State Baseball Tournament Listings
Saturday, January 9, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament - Spring Lake Park
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Gopher State Winter Basketball League play date
Sunday, January 10, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament - Eastview
Monday, January 11, 2010
Gopher State / Fridley Invitational Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Jan. 23-24 event)
Monday, January 11, 2010
MYAS/Gopher State Baseball Annual Meeting - Ramada Mpls. NW/Grand Rios
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Gopher State Winter Basketball League play date
Saturday, January 16, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament - Park Center
Sunday, January 17, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament - Colin Powell Center, Mpls.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Martin Luther King Jr. Winter Baseball Camp - Rogers
Monday, January 18, 2010
MYAS / MN Twins MLK Jr. Baseball Training Camp - Blaine
Monday, January 18, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Jan. 30 & 31 events)
Saturday-Sunday, January 23-24, 2010
Gopher State / Fridley Invitational Basketball Tournament
Sunday, January 24, 2010
MYAS Day with the Gopher Women's Basketball Team - Williams Arena
Monday, January 25, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Feb. 6 & 7 events)
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Gopher State Winter Basketball League play date
Saturday, January 30, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament - Burnsville
Sunday, January 31, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament - Spring Lake Park
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Gopher State Baseball Pitching Training Camp
Monday, February 1, 2010
Gopher State / North St. Paul Invitational Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Feb. 13-14 event)
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Gopher State Wrestling Championship entry deadline (Feb. 13-14 event)
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
MYAS Basketball Officials' Video Clinic - Columbia Heights
Friday, February 5, 2010
MYAS Girls' Grade State Basketball Championship entry deadline (Mar. 6-7 event)
Answers to Football Rules of the Month
The answers below are derived from the National Federation of State High School Associations Football Rules Book and/or Football Case Book.
1. Since Player B1 is in possession, Team B has the option of accepting the results of the play at the time of the whistle or asking for a replay of the down. Since the result of the play would be a safety, B would normally choose to replay the down (Rule Book 4-2-3c page 46 and 8-5-2a page 65; Case Book 4.2.3 Situation D page 33).
2. In (a), the official must locate the spot where the ball crossed the sideline and then determine whether the foremost point of the ball was behind or beyond the line to gain when Player A1 crossed the plane of the sideline. In (b), it is a first down and 10 for Team A from Team B's 44-yard line (Case Book 4.3.3 Situation A page 34).
3. The covering official must make the following decisions: Did Player B2's actions cause Player A1 to land out of bounds? If the official determines that B2 caused A1 to land out of bounds, then the official must determine forward progress in the field of play and should not stop the clock. If, however, the clock is stopped, it should start on the ready because forward progress was stopped in the field of play. If A1 would have landed out of bounds of his own accord, it is an incomplete pass and the clock should be stopped. COMMENT: When any receiver is close to the sideline and is contacted by an opponent, the covering official must make a decision about where he would have landed without the contact (Rule Book 4-3-2 page 47; Case Book 4.3.3 Situation B page 34).
Answers to Basketball Rules of the Month
The answers below are derived from the National Federation of State High School Associations Basketball Rule Book, Basketball Case Book and/or Rules by Topic publication.
1. Violation by Player A1 for lodging the untouched throw-in pass. Team B's ball at the throw-in spot. Since A1 violated during an alternating-possession throw-in, Team A has lost the arrow. Team B will have the arrow for the next alternating-possession throw-in (Rule Book 6-4-5 page 46; Case Book 9.2.8 Situation page 71).
2. Legal maneuver. Both player control and team control ended when Player A1 released the ball. When A1 recovered, he/she could dribble again similar to dribbling after catching a pass or rebound (Case Book 9.5.1 Situation page 73).
3. No violation. When Player A1's pass was touched by, or touched, another player, he/she may start a new dribble. The 10-second backcourt count continues (Case Book 9.5.3 Situation page 73).
If you have questions about these or other basketball playing rules, please contact Buddy Hemric at 763-746-1717 or buddy@myas.org.
Important Association Services That Work!
The Minnesota Youth Athletic Services offers three important services:
1. Association and Player Sports Accident Insurance Coverage
Association liability and player accident insurance are always concerns for youth sports organizations in our increasingly litigious society. Some associations spend a lot of money and others go into denial and “run naked” without even minimal liability coverage for their members. Yet if insurance is not obtained, the personal assets of the individuals running the association may be at risk. Many sports facility managers, especially municipalities and schools, will not permit the use of their property or facilities unless it can be demonstrated that youth sports associations are covered under an insurance policy. Without insurance, the opportunity for young athletes to compete in organized sports programs may be substantially limited.
The MYAS has partnered with J.A. Price Agency, an insurance company which has access to dozens of other insurance companies and can handle any type of business or personal insurance needs that your association/board of directors may require. The insurance provides options for all types of needs within your association/community. This coverage is an advantage no amateur sports organization should be without!
Examples of coverage include but are not limited to:
- General Liability
- Sexual Misconduct
- Participant Accident
- Directors & Officers Liability
- Crime/Embezzlement
- Automobile
- Umbrella
- Workers' Compensation
General insurance questions should be directed to Bob Blomster at 952-253-4311 or bob.blomster@japrice.com.
2. Criminal Background Checks
How do we protect our children? Reports of sexual predators and child abuse involving the clergy, day care workers and youth volunteers are all too familiar. Unfortunately, this includes a disturbing number of youth sport coaches who have a history of incidents of sexual misconduct and/or violence. This is a complex issue and many youth sports organizations are unclear about what to do or how to approach this threat, yet they must take proactive steps to prevent their children from becoming innocent victims. Don’t put your children at risk!
In addition, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that $50 billion is lost annually due to employee theft and fraud. Youth sports associations must protect themselves from this threat as well. Don’t put your association at risk!
Fortunately, youth sports associations now have a simple and inexpensive tool to avoid some of society’s worst fears. The MYAS, with its partner Trusted Employees, has designed a criminal background check system that offers three affordable options to youth sports associations. Trusted Employees, a local Twin Cities company, incorporates a “user-friendly” process combined with flexible information delivery to make this system easy and inexpensive for your organization. For more information, please contact Mike DeWane at 952-393-1929 or mike@myas.org.
3. Coaching Education Program
The MYAS has partnered with the American Sport Education Program (ASEP) to offer youth sport associations and their coaches the Coaching Youth Sport education program designed specifically for youth coaches. It provides coaches with a solid foundation in coaching principles, sport first aid and sport-specific techniques and tactics. These courses are available for baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball and wrestling and can be delivered in the classroom or online. For more information, please contact Mike DeWane at 952-393-1929 or mike@myas.org.
MYAS Sponsors
MYAS Membership Meetings
MYAS membership meetings are held at our offices (4111 Central Avenue NE; Columbia Heights, MN 55421) on the last Tuesday of each month at 9:00am (unless notified otherwise). All MYAS members are welcome to attend.
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