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Welcome to the January 28, 2011; 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 sport services and events at the lowest possible cost and partially fund this newsletter, and certain sponsors will be featured.
Dan's Notes - from Executive Director Dan Klinkhammer
MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL BASKETBALL COALITION UPDATE
If you recall, last August we distributed our plan to create Minneapolis and St. Paul Youth Basketball Coalitions. That same information was published in our September MYAS Update and it was recently mailed again to every known youth basketball group in our database. The last mailing included an invitation to attend an informational meeting on January 24. That meeting was held last Monday and I don't mind telling you that it wasn't a very fun meeting.
Not surprisingly, the bona fide organizations in Minneapolis and St. Paul like the concept of creating a youth basketball coalition for their respective communities. They see the value of a better infrastructure. They see the value in a united effort to deliver a better, more inclusive program. They are grateful that the MYAS is willing to assist with the creation of two separate organizations that will one day stand on their own. They see the value of the MYAS's assistance with fund raising efforts and advertising. They can see that the status quo isn't working and that the number of kids playing traveling basketball is steadily dwindling. They realize that the gap between the suburban and rural associations is widening. They understand that "united they stand and divided they fall." They also realize that this program is just like the State High School League rules in that
it only affects the regular winter basketball season - November through March - and it does not eliminate all-star teams during the rest of the year.
The negative responses are coming from the individuals who have coordinated "independent" teams. It is understandable that some of them don't want to affiliate with one of the established organizations in their respective communities. After all, they have always been able to do whatever they wanted to do, without having to answer to anyone but themselves. They haven't had to do coaches' background checks. They haven't had to attend any type of coaches' education programs. They haven't had to comply with any boundaries. They have been able to charge whatever participation fees they wanted. In a nutshell, some of those youth basketball coordinators think that we are trying to take something away from them when, in reality, we are trying to give them something.
And I don't mind telling you that it gets pretty frustrating trying to discuss all of these issues when the loudest and most disruptive attendees have admittedly NOT read any of the information that has been previously distributed and discussed. In my opinion, they are doing a disservice to the kids of Minneapolis and St. Paul when they attempt to form an opinion when they don't have all the facts.
One of the attendees was overheard in the hallway after the meeting stating, "This is all about the MYAS trying to make us conform." My response to the comment is, "Yes, that is exactly what this is all about." We are trying to help Minneapolis and St. Paul build a similar infrastructure that currently exists in all of the suburban communities.
We fully realize that some of the suburban associations have their problems, but for the most part those associations are thriving and a large number of kids are getting the chance to play traveling basketball. Each suburban community has ONE governing body for youth basketball and everyone is held to the same standards. Everyone knows what's going on.
Minneapolis and St. Paul have a dozen bona fide organizations that are competing with each other, and they have dozens of independent teams that also compete against each other for players, coaches, dollars, gym time and a host of other necessities for running a successful program. And very few of the Minneapolis or St. Paul residents know what's going on because there is no central location where a parent or child can research their options for playing traveling basketball. The status quo is not working.
The fact is that with a combined population of approximately 1/2 million residents, Minneapolis and St. Paul have the smallest ratio of travel teams per capita in the entire state. Even when economic status and culture are factored in, the dwindling numbers of inner city children playing basketball are extremely distressing.
I could go on and on with my point of view on this topic, but I don't want to bore you with more facts. However, I do need to make one last comment about basketball in the inner cities. In my opinion, the resistance to our coalition plan is rooted in a difference in philosophy of youth sports. We believe that youth sports should be about child development, and most of the naysayers believe that winning and building super teams is the answer to success.
Here are two excerpts from an e-mail that we received on the Wednesday following our informational meeting:
1. "I don't quite even understand why there is not only 1 State Champion in High School Basketball."
2. "The goal should be to develop the young boys and girls into quality ballplayers that can compete at a national level. Wouldn't you rather play with a team for nine months before going to a National Tournament?"
The comments above don't address anything about child development. They are all about winning, and that is not what the MYAS is about. We are about providing opportunities for everyone, not just the best players that will bring home the most hardware. We are about developing the child as a whole and we firmly believe that the rest will take care of itself.
When my two sons were in their formative years, I repeatedly told them the same thing: "I don't care if you turn out to be a stud ballplayer. What I care about is raising two decent human beings." And that philosophy hasn't changed since the day they were born.
Lastly, we are all about reasonable compromise. We try to administer our programs with a democratic, "keep everybody involved" mentality. If we were dictators, there wouldn't have been a meeting on January 24.
I have said it before and I'll say it again - if you don't like our idea, tell us yours. So far, there has been nothing but silence on an alternative plan. But we are optimistic that we can help the Minneapolis and St. Paul youth basketball communities develop a better future for young inner city girls and boys.
Upcoming MYAS Event Registration Deadlines
The following is a list of upcoming registration deadlines for MYAS events. Please click on the applicable link to access detailed event and entry information.
Gopher State Winter Basketball Invitational
Event Date(s): February 12-13
Deadline: January 31
MYAS Gopher State Wrestling Nationals
Event Date(s): February 12-13
Deadline: February 2 @ 3:00pm
MYAS Girls' Grade State Basketball Championships
Event Date(s): March 5-6
Deadline: February 4
MYAS Day with the Gophers Women's Basketball Team
Event Date(s): February 13
Deadline: February 4
Gopher State Winter Basketball Invitational
Event Date(s): February 19-20
Deadline: February 7
MYAS Boys' Grade State Basketball Championships
Event Date(s): March 12-13
Deadline: February 11
Gopher State Winter Basketball Invitational
Event Date(s): February 26-27
Deadline: February 14
MYAS Gopher State Wrestling K-6 Team Tournament
Event Date(s): February 27
Deadline: February 18 @ 3:00pm
Gopher State Winter Basketball Boys' Invitational
Event Date(s): March 5-6
Deadline: February 21
MYAS Rec State Basketball Championships
Event Date(s): March 19-20
Deadline: February 25
Midwest Regional Swim Meet
Event Date(s): April 2-3
Deadline: February 28 (or until full)
Visit the MYAS on Facebook!
We are excited about our new social media opportunity - Facebook! Check it out and "Like" our page to gain access to pictures, program updates and other exciting news.
You must have a Facebook profile to connect with our page. To get started, go to www.facebook.com and sign up for a free account. If you already have an account, simply log in and search for the "MYAS" page.
As our fan base grows, discussion topics can also be added. We look forward to connecting with our participants and families in this new venture! If you have questions about the MYAS Facebook page, please contact Jessica Christopherson at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
Borton's Bench Notes
As I was thinking of a topic for this issue of the newsletter, I came up with these themes: growing pains, patience is a virtue, staying the course, and having faith. I am not sure if I can eliminate any of them because they are all very pertinent to what our team and coaching staff are experiencing at the start of Big Ten play.
We are definitely experiencing growing pains, which comes from having an inexperienced team. A majority of our players have not played in Big Ten games, nor have they had the expectations that come with performing at this level. We have grown and gotten better though, but I know that we all wish that growth and improvement would happen sooner rather than later!
Being patient with the progress and development of this team has been challenging, and patience is not usually a strength of a competitive head coach :). This year has been one that we felt we were starting from the very beginning with the basics. From developing our players' skills and fundamentals, ingraining the basic foundation in each player, teaching the game, coaching the mental part of the game, to then finally putting this group together to compete in the Big Ten, it has been a slow process. It is a process, however, that has progressed throughout the season and this group has been fun and one-of-a-kind...in a good way!
Staying the course can be difficult if you are not getting the results you want, but we know how to get to where we want to be and what it takes to get there. I am reminded each and every day to stay the course with this team. They are learning and improving as the season goes on, but it is just going to take some time. We need to have patience with them and believe in what we are doing as coaches.
Thank you to our fans for being patient and having faith in this team. We trust that if we continue to work hard, compete and become mentally tougher, we will see the results we are looking for. It was great to see all of you who followed us to Wisconsin and those who traveled with the team to Penn State. You are the best!
Go Gophers!
MYAS Day with the Gopher Women's Basketball Team
Join the MYAS in cheering on the University of Minnesota Women's Basketball Team as they take on the Ohio State Buckeyes on Sunday, February 13, 2011 at 2:00pm!
Your discount priced ticket includes post-game snacks, a meet & greet with Gophers players/coaches and a giveaway item from the U of M.
Please click here for more information and to download the ticket order form, or contact Jessica Christopherson at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
Sports Medicine Tip
When to Use Heat vs. Cold Therapy for Injuries
Athletic injuries are often classified into two basic categories: acute or chronic. Acute injuries have a rapid onset and are often short-lived. Often the result of impact or trauma, these injuries usually have immediate signs and symptoms such as pain, tenderness, redness and swelling. Chronic injuries usually develop slowly over time and are longer lasting. These injuries are often the result of overuse but can be the consequence of poorly managed acute injuries. The guidelines below can be used for treating acute and chronic injuries appropriately with hot and cold therapy.
Cold Therapy: (ice is a vaso-constrictor which causes the blood vessels to narrow, limiting internal bleeding)
- Immediate treatment for acute injuries to reduce pain and swelling
- Apply for 15-20 minutes, several times a day for up to three days
- Ice any chronic or overuse injury after activity to avoid inflammation
Heat Therapy: (heat is a vaso-dilator which opens blood vessels, promoting blood flow)
- Use for chronic injuries with no inflammation or swelling
- Heat is ideal for stiff and sore muscles or joint pain
- Apply heat (moist heat is the best) before exercise to increase the elasticity of joint connective tissues and to stimulate blood flow
- Heat can also help relax tight muscles or muscle spasms
- Treatment time: 15-20 minutes
Tips:
- Athletes should not apply ice to a muscle before activity.
- Acute injuries that show signs of inflammation should not be treated with heat; this may cause an increase in swelling.
- Don't apply heat after exercise. After a workout ice is the better choice, even for a chronic injury.
Because some injuries can be serious, you should see your doctor if your injury does not improve (or gets worse) within 48 hours.
At Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care we specialize in muscles, bones and joints. Convenient locations. One number to call: 612-672-7100. Visit us at www.fairview.org/ortho.
Then And Now - by Larry Gallagher
THREE COMMONLY MISUNDERSTOOD BASKETBALL RULES
When I was a first-year basketball official, I was very confused regarding many rules. Having played and coached the game as part of the Columbia Heights recreation programs, I had of course learned the rules somewhat vicariously and also learned some rules by just listening to others. So some of my knowledge was not exactly factual and some of the rules I learned were actually not rules at all but were hearsay and through the grapevine and "old wives' tales!"
I would like to help everyone understand some of the most commonly misunderstood rules of the game. This month's issue will isolate three of them: the traveling rule, the dribbling rule and the closely-guarded rule. In future issues, we will look at some of the other rules such as block/charge, basket interference/goaltending, etc.
TRAVELING
I have often seen the following play called traveling: A long pass to an offensive player breaking to their basket hits them on the left hand, bounces off the left hand and goes off their head into their right hand before the player successfully shoots the ball through the hoop. The official says it's no basket because they have called traveling on the player. Is this the correct call or not? According to many this is traveling, but by rule it is not - it is in fact a legal play.
Why is this not traveling? Because to have traveling called, a player must be in possession of the ball. In the example above, the receiver of the long pass never established control of the ball until it was in their right hand. All the bouncing off the left hand or the head never established possession. So this is a legal play.
The original traveling rule stated, "A player cannot run with the ball. The player must throw it from the spot in which they catch it, allowance to be made for a player running at good speed."
Today's traveling rule is much more complicated but let's suffice it to say, "Traveling is called when a player slides, lifts or changes their pivot foot or takes more than two steps after picking up their dribble." It is actually more complicated but this is as detailed as I will get here.
A second example of traveling is when a player picks up their pivot foot prior to beginning a dribble. However, when the pivot foot is lifted the player may pass or shoot before the pivot foot returns to the floor.
Another one that many very good players get away with is when they begin their move, they quickly shift both feet before they start. It is actually part of a feint to get the defensive player off balance. Those that are really quick sometimes fool not only their opponent but also the official that is responsible for that area of the court.
Yet another example of traveling is when a player, after receiving a pass, takes two steps or even a jump stop prior to shooting or passing. However, if they are stepping into the reception of the pass as they are moving one or both feet, they have not traveled. Some players take a little two-foot hop just before taking a jump shot. This is traveling. It is not traveling if they come to a jump stop just after they finish their dribble or quick post-up move.
Finally, traveling by a post player can occur when they have the ball with their back to the basket and they turn and square up to face the basket. If they keep their pivot foot planted they are legal, but if they completely turn around and move both feet as they square up, they have traveled.
The key elements for an official to get a traveling call correct are to know when the player established possession of the ball and which foot is the pivot foot.
DOUBLE-DRIBBLE
Basically, you can't dribble with two hands. Once you start your dribble and that second hand makes contact with the ball, whether it's to pick up the dribble or it's an accident, your dribble is legally over. This is called a double-dribble and is a violation with the penalty being loss of the ball to your opponent for a throw-in at the nearest spot.
In the early days of basketball there was no such thing as dribbling. There was only passing the ball between teammates and shooting the ball toward the basket. Then there was a method of "dribbling" where a player rolled the ball on the floor to a teammate. Later, we began the dribble and it has evolved into a very important part of the game (sometimes to the chagrin of many coaches who would like to see more passing than dribbling). There was an old rule that allowed an air-dribble to yourself, but that was eliminated from the game in the early 1980s.
In women's basketball there was also a limited-dribble rule that allowed for only two or three dribbles before the player had to pass or shoot. What this meant was that if the dribbler made the third or fourth dribble, it would be called a dribbling violation. In other words, they couldn't go full court. At one time, the women's game also prohibited half of the players from crossing the center line of the court. The game was basically a half-court game for each of three players in their half of the court. Iowa was one of the last states to continue playing this type of game. It was extremely popular in Iowa and they held out longer than anyone once Title IX came into effect with the new format.
Let's look at some examples of double-dribbling that will help clarify the rule.
As with traveling, in dribbling there can be no double-dribble if the player does not have control of the ball. So if you attempt to catch a pass and drop it without ever gaining control, you have not started your dribble. You may ask why that isn't a double-dribble. The answer is that you must have possession of the ball to be able to begin a dribble. However, if you direct the ball forward to the floor intentionally, you have controlled the ball and therefore you can continue to dribble or catch the ball. Once you have stopped your dribble you are limited to only passing or shooting. If the ball is knocked away from you by a defensive player - or even a teammate - you have lost control of the ball and may dribble again.
Here is a case book play that underscores what I have stated above: A1's throw-in pass is beyond A2. (a) A2 reaches out and slaps the ball toward A's basket; or (b) A2 muffs the pass. In both instances, A2 then gains control and dribbles to the basket and scores. Ruling: No violation in either (a) or (b) and the basket would count in both situations.
Now let's look at the closely-guarded rule to see how that has changed over the years and how to avoid being called for it in the most obvious ways.
CLOSELY-GUARDED
First of all, in the original basketball rules there was no closely-guarded rule. Later, when it became a rule, it wasn't a turnover as it is today. It was a held ball and play moved to the nearest circle for a jump ball. Now it is a turnover at the nearest spot. Most often it is called on a player who is dribbling near the sideline or out on top of the key area. It is seldom called in the post area even though it could occur there, but usually a three-second lane violation would occur first. In the NBA and college basketball there is no need for the closely-guarded rule because they have a shot clock, so there cannot be any real delays in those games.
An interesting story about how the shot clock originated in the NBA is from a game played back in the late 1940s in Fort Wayne, Indiana, when the Pistons of Ft. Wayne (now the Detroit Pistons) played the Minneapolis Lakers in a 19-17 game. I listened to this game on the radio. I was quite young and Dick Enroth was the play-by-play announcer. The Pistons just stood with the ball near center court for most of the game because they knew they could not combat the Lakers in the front court because the Lakers had George Mikan, Jim Pollard and Vern Mikkelson. The Pistons devised this delay of game strategy to keep the score low by just holding the ball for much of the game, and the Lakers did the same. I can remember Enroth speaking about Slater Martin holding the ball and then later passing to Bob Harrison, who then held the ball. It truly ended up being a boring game.
When I was a player at Columbia Heights, Hastings tried that against our team for much of the game. Most teams never tried it because it was not any fun to just tease the other team. Once in awhile, in the later stages of a high school game, you will see the team that is in the lead go into their delay offense (called four-corners) just to keep the clock running or tempt the defense to commit fouls.
The rule book definition of closely-guarded says: "A closely-guarded situation occurs when a player in control in his/her team's front court is continuously guarded by any opponent who is within six feet of the player who is holding or dribbling the ball. The distance shall be measured from the forward foot/feet of the defender to the forward foot/feet of the ball handler. A closely-guarded count shall be terminated when the offensive player in control of the ball gets his/her head and shoulders past the defensive player."
Another part of the rule allows the player with the ball to hold it for four seconds, dribble the ball for four seconds and then hold it for four seconds or a total of 12 seconds and not have the official call closely-guarded. However, once the ball handler holds or dribbles the ball and the defender meets all the criteria for closely-guarding, the official will blow the whistle and signal five seconds with one open hand showing. This means the offensive player is guilty of being closely-guarded and it becomes a turnover for the defensive team and they have earned a throw-in from the spot nearest to the violation.
Remember, this can only happen in the front court in high school basketball as there is no closely-guarded in the back court because there is the 10-second rule that the offensive team has to get the ball into the front court. In women's NCAA basketball there is no 10-second rule so they can be closely-guarded in the back court and earn a turnover. International basketball also has no 10-second back court rule for men or women.
I hope this helps everyone to better understand these three commonly misunderstood rules. Next month we will look at block/charge, basket interference/goal tending, etc.
Midwest Regional Swim Meet
Registration is open for the 2011 Midwest Regional Swim Meet that will be held on the weekend of April 2-3 at the University of Minnesota Aquatic Center. Entry information and qualifying times are available on the Midwest Regional web page.
We have some exciting changes for 2011, including a family event at the Mall of America and potentially a webcast of the meet!
The 2010 meet was one of the best in our program history and we are looking forward to carrying that over to the 2011 Midwest Regional Swim Meet.
For more information, please visit the MRSM web page or contact Jessica Christopherson at jessica@myas.org.
MYAS Gopher State Wrestling
The entry deadline for the 2011 MYAS Gopher State Wrestling Nationals is fast approaching. The deadline is set for 3:00pm on Wednesday, February 2. Please click here to access the registration information.
The Gopher State Wrestling Nationals have earned the reputation of being the toughest and best run tournament in Minnesota. In 2010 we had 988 registered wrestlers. The tournament has drawn wrestlers from Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Missouri, Louisiana, Michigan and California. Wrestlers from all states are eligible to participate in all Gopher State wrestling events.
The 2011 Nationals are scheduled for February 12-13. The tournament will once again be held at Monticello High School, which is quite possibly the best wrestling facility in the state.
We have some exciting announcements for the upcoming tournament. Some of them include full mats for grades 3-8, bigger brackets and bigger awards. Click here to view all of the changes.
The Gopher State Wrestling program has seen tremendous growth since its inception in 2002. We thank you for your participation and look forward to another great season. To access more information, please click on the appropriate link below. You may also contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org.
Gopher State Wrestling Nationals
Gopher State K-6 Team Tournament
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. On third and 10 from Team A's 40-yard line, all Team A players are set. While quarterback A1 is calling signals, defensive back B1, starting from a position eight yards behind his line of scrimmage, runs toward the neutral zone. B1 stops directly in front of tackle A4 but does not enter the neutral zone. In response to B1's charge, A4: (a) does not move; or (b) flinches. What is the ruling in each case?
2. Quarterback A1 is in position for a direct hand-to-hand snap. (a) A1 muffs the snap, but is able to take the ball from the ground and spike it forward; or (b) A1 receives the snap, but his spike attempt hits snapper A2's leg and ricochets into the air. A1 catches the ball and immediately spikes it forward. What is the ruling in each case?
3. Player B1 leaps in the air over his 2-yard line and has Player A1's pass in his grasp. He returns to the ground in his end zone inbounds. What is the ruling?
MYAS Grade State Basketball Championships
The MYAS is looking forward with great anticipation to the 2011 Grade State Basketball Championships. The 2010 event was a record setting one in terms of numbers of teams, and we hope that many of you will be able to participate next March.
The deadlines for the 2011 Championships are coming up fast (girls on February 4; boys on February 11) and we are gearing up for another phenomenal state tournament. This spring's tournament will take place on March 5-6 (girls) and March 12-13 (boys). All of the pertinent information is available on the Grade State web page. We hope to see you in March for another exciting wrap-up of your winter basketball season!
Note to Coaches: Once your Grade State team is determined, please go to the MYAS website and complete your online roster via the Coaches Control Center (link is on the home page). Once your roster is complete, you will see which players still need age and/or grade verification. By doing so, you will save a lot of time and unnecessary paperwork in the long run because you ONLY need to provide proof of age and/or grade for the players who are not yet verified (i.e. online roster says "Age [or] Grade Verified: No").
All teams that submit a complete tournament application and their entry fee prior to the appropriate deadline are invited to attend the seeding meeting for their grade. Over 1,000 girls' and boys' coaches assisted with the seeding process last year and we encourage your attendance at the 2011 seeding meeting. To insure balanced representation, each team is entitled to send only ONE representative.
The classification your team initially registers for (A, B or C) does NOT guarantee you will be placed there. Once the seeding meetings are complete and we have all the master seeding sheets, the seeding process is final and no changes will be made.
Girls' 4th/5th/7th Grade Seeding Meetings: February 15 from 6:00-8:30pm @ Crowne Plaza Minneapolis North
Girls' 6th/8th/9th Grade Seeding Meetings: February 16 from 6:00-8:30pm @ Crowne Plaza Minneapolis North
Boys' 4th/5th/7th Grade Seeding Meetings: February 22 from 6:00-8:30pm @ Crowne Plaza Minneapolis North
Boys' 6th/8th/9th Grade Seeding Meetings: February 23 from 6:00-8:30pm @ Coon Rapids High School
If you have any questions, please contact Eric Rathke at 763-746-1730 or eric@myas.org.
MYAS Rec State Basketball Championships
Brochures for the 2011 MYAS Rec State Basketball Championships are now available! Please click here to access more information and to download the brochure and entry materials. If you would like a copy of the brochure mailed to you, contact Kevin Wilson at 763-746-1712 or kevin@myas.org.
The tournament is scheduled for March 19-20, 2011 at various metro area locations. The Rec State Championships are held for boys' and girls' teams in grades 3-12 that participate in a city park and recreation, community education or in-house program. Teams in grades 10-12 that participate in an in-house program or a high school intramural program are eligible to participate.
New for 2011! The MYAS is now offering a volume discount for the Rec State Championships. The entry fee will be reduced to just $175.00 per team for programs that register five or more teams for the tournament!
If you have further questions, please contact Kevin Wilson at 763-746-1712 or kevin@myas.org.
MYAS Winter Basketball Tournaments and Leagues
The 2010-11 MYAS winter basketball calendar once again includes the Gopher State Winter Basketball League, Gopher State Invitational Tournaments and MYAS Super Saver Tournaments. There is sure to be an event that fits every team's schedule.
For more information about MYAS winter basketball events, please click here and then scroll down to the winter section of the page. You may also contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org.
MYAS Basketball Tournament Scheduling Services
The MYAS wants to help your basketball organization. We have put together a Tournament Scheduling Service package to make coordinating your event much easier. Our educated and trained staff has experienced the ins and outs of event planning. Let our expertise help you!
For just $3.00 per team, the MYAS will complete your tournament schedules and post them online and will provide you with a copy of the schedules, brackets to post at your site(s), score sheets for every game and many other valuable services. We are also working on the possibility of providing tournament directors with remote website access so they can update scores/schedules during their tournament.
What follows is a testimonial from Layne Skoyen, director of the Hastings Spiral Classic Basketball Tournament:
"As a volunteer with our Hastings Basketball Booster organization, it is very difficult to devote the time needed to coordinate a successful annual tournament. Jeremy (Innes) at MYAS took many of the headaches away with their tournament service program which provides a website, bracketing, printing of forms, etc. This year was a breeze compared to last year - very few emails or calls. MYAS is so easy to work with and very responsive to any questions or concerns. I would highly recommend this program to any Director that feels overwhelmed by the details and pressure of hosting a successful basketball tournament."
If you would like more information about the MYAS Basketball Tournament Scheduling Services, please click here or contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org.
MYAS "Travel Lite" Basketball Program - Save Time & Money
The MYAS staff often hears from coaches and parents who are commenting on how basketball tournaments consume an entire weekend. In an effort to give back some of that time to families, we have branded some of our events as MYAS "Travel Lite."
Benefits of Travel Lite include saving time and saving money on admission fees, concessions, travel and lodging.
MYAS Travel Lite programs include the Winter Jamboree, Super Saver Tournaments and the Gopher State Winter Basketball League.
For more information on MYAS Travel Lite, you may contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org with your questions.
Gopher State Spring Basketball
As the winter basketball season comes to an end, it's time to begin planning for your team's participation in our Grade State or Rec State Championships in early to mid-March and the Gopher State Spring Basketball tournaments that begin the last weekend in March. Our 2011 schedule has expanded to include tournaments running through mid-July, the new Summer Prep Series and our first-ever 3 on 3 Summer League in August.
2011 Gopher State Spring Basketball Highlights:
- MYAS Team Appreciation Weekend on May 7-8
As we enter our third decade of providing quality youth sports programs, the MYAS wants to say "Thank You" to the teams that have participated with us over the past 20 years. Team Appreciation Weekend tournaments will cost $150 for all invitationals and $275 for the 3rd & 4th Grade Spring Championships.
- Gopher State All-Star Celebration Weekends: Girls on July 22-24; Boys on July 29-31
Throughout the Gopher State spring season, coaches will be asked to nominate the top players from their grade level to participate in this All-Star game. Four teams of boys' and girls' players in each of the 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th grade divisions will be selected to participate. A new twist for the All-Star Weekend will be the invitation of All-Star teams from across the Midwest to come and compete against our Minnesota players.
- NEW FOR 2011: Gopher State 3 on 3 Summer League
We are excited to announce that the MYAS will offer a 3 on 3 Summer League to be held Sunday evenings throughout the month of August. Watch for more information throughout the spring season.
Tryouts: Some teams are already being formed and tryouts are being set. See the Classifieds section on the home page of the MYAS website and click on "Tryouts Available" to see who has already posted theirs. If your club/team is holding tryouts for the spring basketball season and your team(s) will be playing with us, please contact the MYAS office and we will advertise your tryouts for free.
Are you new to Gopher State Spring Basketball? Come to one of our informational meetings to learn what you need to know about Gopher State Spring Basketball. We will be holding two meetings in the metro area and three to four in outstate Minnesota. Please RSVP if you plan on attending one of the outstate meetings. It is not necessary to RSVP for metro area meetings - simply show up either night. Listed below are the tentative meeting dates, times and locations.
If you want to experience great competition and play different opponents each weekend, be assured that trainers and tournament directors will be on site to oversee the games and not have to pay outrageous membership fees, then Gopher State Spring Basketball is the place to play. Don't be fooled by imitations! The first weekend of play is March 26-27, 2011.
MYAS Gopher State Fall Basketball
The MYAS is already busy planning for the 2011 Gopher State Fall Basketball League and Second Session. We are in the process of finalizing all of the league dates, registration information and other details and will post them as soon as possible. Please keep checking the Fall League portion of the MYAS web site for updates.
The 2010 Fall League went very well and we hope our Gopher State fall basketball events prepared you for your winter season and beyond. We'd like to once again thank all of the teams that participated and especially our hosts - the league wouldn't be possible without you! Game scores are still available on the Fall League web page so you can check them out.
For more information on the Gopher State Fall Basketball League and/or the Second Session, please click here. You may also contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org with your questions.
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. Player A1 blocks a pass near the end line. The ball falls to the floor inbounds but A1, who is off balance, steps off the court. A1 returns inbounds, secures control of the ball and dribbles. What is the ruling?
2. Player A1 blocks a pass near the sideline and the ball goes into A1's front court. A1's momentum carries him/her out of bounds. He/she immediately returns inbounds, secures control of the ball, dribbles, shoots and scores. What is the ruling?
3. Player A1 jumps from inbounds to retrieve an errant pass near a boundary line. A1 catches the ball while in the air and tosses it back onto the court. A1 lands out of bounds and (a) is the first to touch the ball after returning inbounds; (b) returns inbounds and immediately dribbles the ball; or (c) picks up the ball after returning to the court and then begins a dribble. What is the ruling in each case?
Gopher State Winter Baseball Camps
Gopher State Winter Camps are open to youth athletes of all skill levels and ages. Our featured camps offer top notch professional instruction, and there is a variety of camps to choose from during the baseball off-season.
Opportunities are still available with the Minnesota Twins Training Camps and the Lovdahl Pitching Academy in February and March. Listed below are dates and sites for the remaining Gopher State Winter Camps. Act fast - sign up today!
February 13 * Lovdahl Pitching Camp * Northwestern College, Roseville
February 20 * Try Out Prep Camp w/ Ron Coomer * Concordia University, St. Paul
February 21 * Twins President's Day Camp * National Sports Center, Blaine
February 26 * Overall Skills Camp * University of River Falls, WI
March 6 * Battery Mates Camp * Northwestern College, Roseville
If you have questions about the Gopher State Winter Camps, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
Gopher State Baseball League
The MYAS is looking forward to the start of the 12th season of the Gopher State Baseball League (GSBL)! Look for new teams from central Minnesota and more teams from existing member associations.
All team entry packets/enrollment forms will be available on the GSBL portion of the MYAS website and will be emailed to current Association Presidents and/or Travel Directors no later than Friday, February 18. If you need to be added to the distribution list or are new to this role on your baseball association board, please email Dawson Blanck to provide him with updated contact information. Continue to watch the GSBL web page for all up to date information as we approach the 2011 season.
NEW FOR 2011:
9u Open Leagues and "A" Level Leagues
14AAA, 14AA, 15AAA and 15AA Gopher State All-Star Series on August 5-7
14AAA and 15AAA Traveling League Championship Games vs. Metro Baseball League
Look for more information on these new events on the GSBL web page in the coming months!
Team Enrollment Deadlines
9u-15u teams: March 25, 2011
16u-17/19u teams: May 16, 2011
Scheduling Sessions
9u-15u teams: April 16, 2011
16u-17/19u teams: May 26, 2011
Please click here to access information about 2011 league fees; click here to view 2011 league dates.
If you have any questions, comments or concerns or would like more information about the Gopher State Baseball League, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
Gopher State Baseball League Team Classification Hearing
Member associations that enrolled teams in the 2010 GSBL will have the opportunity to petition a team's classification at the March 20, 2011 GSBL Board of Advisors (BOA) Team Classification Hearing.
These two regulations as set by the BOA determine if an association may petition a team's classification for the 2011 GSBL:
- Teams with history in the GSBL (participated in 2010) at the AA level and finished with a winning percentage of .750 and above may petition the BOA to remain at the AA level in 2011. The GSBL Board of Advisors reserves the right to review any team's classification prior to the beginning of the next season.
- Teams with history in the GSBL (participated in 2010) at the AAA level and finished with a winning percentage below .250 may petition the BOA to play down at the AA level in 2011. Note: All 15 & under teams may petition the BOA to play at the AA level if their association places teams in other organizations/leagues at the same age level.
A Past Performance Analysis will be emailed to each GSBL Association President and/or Travel Director by February 18, 2011. This form must be filled out and submitted by March 11, 2011 in order to be allowed to petition any team(s) that will be participating in the 2011 GSBL.
MYAS Baseball Staff Releases GSTC Qualifier Info
All AAA, AA and A Gopher State Tournament of Champions (GSTC) qualifying tournament designations are now posted on the youth baseball tournament listings on the MYAS web site. Each invitational tournament that has been awarded GSTC qualifier status is designated with a "YES" in the right-hand column of the listing.
All qualifiers will award automatic GSTC berths to the teams placing first or second at their tournament. The other teams will receive points that will be used to award at-large GSTC berths at the end of the season.
Do not hesitate to sign up today for a GSTC qualifier that provides traveling teams an opportunity to participate in our premier baseball event - the 7th annual Gopher State Tournament of Champions! For more information, please contact Tony Groff at 763-746-1728 or tony@myas.org.
Gopher State Baseball Tournament of Champions
Listed below for your information are the dates for the 2011 Gopher State Baseball Tournament of Champions.
July 8-10, 2011: 10AA, 11AA, 12AA, 13AA, 15AA
July 15-17, 2011: 10AAA, 11AAA, 12AAA, 13AAA, 14AAA, 14AA, 15AAA
July 22-24, 2011: 10A, 11A, 12A, 13A, 14/15A
Please keep checking the GSTC web page for any news for 2011! In the meantime, please contact Tony Groff at 763-746-1728 or tony@myas.org with your questions.
USSSA / Gopher State Baseball Mid-Summer Classic
Minnesota USSSA Baseball is proud to announce its 2011 schedule. We look forward to the Gopher State Mid-Summer Classic tournaments that will combine great teams, venues and host organizations to offer an outstanding tournament experience for everyone involved. This is a tremendous event to participate in regardless of whether you intend to advance to a USSSA World Series or National Tournament, or if you simply want to earn a berth to the Gopher State Tournament of Champions (GSTC) in July.
The Gopher State Mid-Summer Classic has been designated a "Double Points" tournament for the GSTC. For example, if 12 teams participate in a particular Mid-Summer Classic, each team will receive six points just for participating in the tournament. The "Double Points" tournament could propel a team with enough points late in the season to receive one of the at-large berths that are awarded for the GSTC in July. Please click on the link to view the GSTC Double Points Tournament Breakdown.
Register early to secure your spot in this premier event. An updated list of Mid-Summer Classic dates and sites (with the exception of the 14/15A division) are available on the Minnesota USSSA Baseball page of the MYAS website. The page also contains hard copy and online application forms.
If you would like more information on USSSA baseball and/or the Gopher State Mid-Summer Classic, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
Gopher State Baseball All-Star Training Series
In conjunction with the 2011 Gopher State Baseball League (GSBL), the All-Star Training Series on August 5-7 will showcase the top players from each team that participates in the 14AAA, 14AA, 15AAA and 15AA leagues. Each GSBL 14u and 15u head coach will have the opportunity to nominate two players and one alternate from their respective teams (nominations must be completed by July 8).
The MYAS baseball staff and the GSBL Board of Advisors will place individuals on 4-6 teams (based on the overall number of GSBL teams at a particular age/level). The nominated players will be categorized on teams based upon their preferred position.
The coaching staff of each All-Star team will be selected based upon the final GSBL regular season standings in each division of play. Coaches of teams placing first and/or second in a 14u or 15u GSBL division may be given the opportunity to coach a designated All-Star team. The coaching staff for each All-Star team will be selected no later than July 15.
An opening ceremony will be held on August 5 and competition will take place on August 6-7, with each All-Star team playing four games. More information about this showcase event will be available on the GSBL portion of the MYAS website.
Gopher State Baseball August Competitive League
NEW FOR 2011! The Gopher State August Competitive League will be offered on August 14, 21 and 28, 2011. This league is open to all 10-15 year old AAA and AA traveling teams and any 16u and 17-19u team. Teams will be able to play in competitive match-ups even after the spring/summer season is over.
This league will bridge the gap between the spring/summer season and the Gopher State Fall Baseball League. It features a six-game guarantee, with teams playing doubleheaders each Sunday.
More information will be available on the August Competitive League portion of the MYAS website by early to mid-February. In the meantime, if you would like more information about this new league please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
MYAS Latest News (as of 1/27/11)
Basketball Tournament Openings Feb. 5 & 6
Join Us For Gopher Day with the U of M Women's Basketball Team!
2011 Rec State Basketball Championships Brochure Available; New Volume Discount on Entry Fees
New Baseball Bat Standards for 2011
Diamond Baseballs for Sale
Basketballs for Sale
Gopher State Winter Baseball Training Camps
2011 Youth Baseball Tournament Listings
Gopher State Wrestling - New for 2011
Visit us on Facebook!
Basketball Invitational Tournament Books Available
Are you looking for a basketball team to play on?
Let the MYAS Schedule Your Basketball Tournament - Just $3 Per Team
MYAS Introduces Travel Lite Basketball Events
MYAS Guidelines for Winter Basketball
Insurance - USSSA Basketball
MYAS Calendar (as of 1/27/11)
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Gopher State Invitational Basketball Tournament; various grades/divisions; St. Paul Humboldt HS
Monday, January 31, 2011
Gopher State Invitational Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Feb. 12-13 event)
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
MYAS Gopher State Wrestling Nationals entry deadline (Feb. 12-13 event)
Friday, February 4, 2011
MYAS Girls' Grade State Basketball Championships entry deadline (Mar. 5-6 event)
Friday, February 4, 2011
MYAS Day with the Gophers Women's Basketball Team registration deadline (Feb. 13 event)
Saturday, February 5, 2011
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament; various grades/divisions; Osseo HS
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Gopher State Winter Basketball League play date; various grades/divisions & sites
Sunday, February 6, 2011
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament; various grades/divisions; Colin Powell Center, Mpls.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Gopher State Invitational Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Feb. 19-20 event)
Thursday, February 10, 2011
MYAS Basketball Officials Video Clinic; Murzyn Hall, Columbia Heights
Friday, February 11, 2011
MYAS Boys' Grade State Basketball Championships entry deadline (Mar. 12-13 event)
Saturday-Sunday, February 12-13, 2011
MYAS Gopher State Wrestling Nationals; various grades; Monticello HS
Saturday-Sunday, February 12-13, 2011
Gopher State Invitational Basketball Tournament; various grades/divisions; North St. Paul HS
Sunday, February 13, 2011
MYAS Day with the Gophers Women's Basketball Team; Williams Arena, University of Minnesota
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Gopher State Baseball Winter Training Camp - Lovdahl Pitching Camp; Northwestern College, Roseville
Monday, February 14, 2011
Gopher State Invitational Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Feb. 26-27 event)
Friday, February 18, 2011
MYAS Gopher State Wrestling K-6 Team Tournament entry deadline (Feb. 27 event)
Saturday-Sunday, February 19-20, 2011
Gopher State Invitational Basketball Tournament; various grades/divisions & sites
Saturday-Sunday, February 19-20, 2011
Gopher State Winter Basketball League tournament; various grades/divisions & sites
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Gopher State Baseball Winter Training Camp - Tryout Prep Camp; Concordia University, St. Paul
Monday, February 21, 2011
Gopher State Boys' Invitational Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Mar. 5-6 event)
Monday, February 21, 2011
Gopher State Baseball Winter Training Camp - Twins President's Day Camp; National Sports Center, Blaine
Friday, February 25, 2011
MYAS Rec State Basketball Championships entry deadline (Mar. 19-20 event)
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Gopher State Baseball Winter Training Camp - Overall Skills Camp; University of River Falls, WI
Saturday-Sunday, February 26-27, 2011
Gopher State Invitational Basketball Tournament; various grades/divisions; St. Louis Park HS
Sunday, February 27, 2011
MYAS Gopher State Wrestling K-6 Team Tournament; Anoka HS
Monday, February 28, 2011
Midwest Regional Swim Meet entry deadline (Apr. 2-3 event)
Answers to Football Rules of the Month
The answers below are derived from the most recent edition of the National Federation of State High School Associations Football Rules Book and/or Football Case Book.
1. No foul in (a). In (b), A4 is guilty of a dead-ball foul for a false start. If, in the official's judgment, the action by B1 was for the purpose of disconcerting or hindering Team A, it is an unsportsmanlike conduct foul. In this case, the official should sound the whistle before the snap (Case Book 7.1.7 Situation C, page 49; Rule Book 7-1-7, page 57 and 9-5-1d, page 71).
2. An illegal forward pass in both (a) and (b). Once the ball touches the ground, a player or spike attempt is unsuccessful, it may not be grounded legally thereafter using this exception. In order to be a "direct snap" and therefore meet the allowance within the exception, the ball must go immediately from the snapper to the person in position to take the hand-to-hand snap without being muffed, fumbled or otherwise mishandled (Case Book 7.5.2 Situation B, page 53).
3. B1's interception was not completed until he returned to the ground inbounds. He now possesses a live ball in his end zone and may attempt to run it out or down it in the end zone for a touchback. Momentum is not involved (Case Book 7.5.2 Situation H, page 54).
Answers to Basketball Rules of the Month
The answers below are derived from the most recent edition of the National Federation of State High School Associations Basketball Rules Book, Basketball Case Book and/or Rules by Topic publication.
1. Legal. A1 did not leave the court voluntarily and did not have control of the ball when he/she did. This situation is similar to one in which A1 makes a try from under the basket and momentum carries A1 off the court. If the try is unsuccessful, A1 may come back onto the court and regain control since he/she did not leave the court voluntarily and did not have control of the ball when he/she did (Case Book 7.1.1 Situation B, page 57).
2. Legal (Case Book 7.1.1 Situation C, page 57 and Rule Book 4-35-1a, page 35; 7-1-2, page 47 and 9-3, page 55).
3. Legal in (a) and (b). Illegal in (c) as the controlled toss of the ball to the court by A1 constitutes the start of a dribble; dribbling a second time after picking up the ball is an illegal dribble violation (Case Book 7.1.1 Situation D, page 57 and Rule Book 4-15-5, page 29; 4-15-6d, page 29; 4-35, page 35 and 9-5, page 55).
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 763-746-1716 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 763-746-1716 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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