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Welcome to the August 27, 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 sport services at the lowest possible cost and partially fund this newsletter, and certain sponsors will be featured.
Dan's Notes - from Executive Director Dan Klinkhammer
BACKGROUND:
Since Day One (January 1, 1991), the MYAS philosophy for the winter basketball season has restricted all of our leagues, tournaments and events to teams originating from community or school sponsored basketball organizations. However, Minneapolis and St. Paul do not have bona fide community youth basketball associations, so we have been accepting "independent" teams from the two communities. That situation has created a lot of stress and a feeling of unfairness between those two communities and many of the surrounding suburban and rural area youth basketball associations. Far too many kids and coaches transfer from Minneapolis and/or St. Paul to the suburbs and far too many kids go from the suburbs to some of the Minneapolis and/or St. Paul teams.
Frankly, the MYAS gets caught in the middle of these disputes and we find ourselves in a no-win situation most of the time. We enjoy working with most of the legitimate youth basketball organizations in St. Paul and Minneapolis, but when we find ourselves dealing with a lot of individuals rather than organizations, the waters get murky very fast and we have difficulty holding those individuals to the same standards that we can easily apply to bona fide organizations.
It has become a nightmare for everyone concerned and the MYAS has developed a plan that will ease much of the tension, minimize the transfer of athletes and create a level playing field.
THE NEW POLICY (beginning with the 2011-12 season):
The MYAS will no longer recognize independent teams from Minneapolis or St. Paul for the regular winter basketball season, beginning with the 2011-12 season. We are delaying the implementation of this new policy to allow people to make the necessary adjustments to their past practices. (Similar issues do exist in some rural areas of Minnesota and will be dealt with in a similar but unique manner.)
THE PLAN:
The MYAS intends to create a Minneapolis Youth Basketball Coalition and a St. Paul Youth Basketball Coalition. We hope to recruit three to five (maybe less, maybe more) organizations in each community that will be designated as recognized, legitimate youth basketball associations. Once we have established the members of the Minneapolis and St. Paul Coalitions, we will accept teams originating from those recognized organizations. We will refuse entry to ANY Minneapolis or St. Paul teams that are not affiliated with those Coalition member organizations. The selection of recognized Coalition member organizations will be determined by the MYAS staff and the MYAS Review Committee, which is a composite representation of metro area associations.
WHAT SHOULD THE INDEPENDENTS DO NOW?
Coaches and kids that are currently participating with "independent" Minneapolis or St. Paul teams can stay together for the 2010-11 season, but they will have to affiliate with one of the Coalition member organizations prior to participation in MYAS programs for next year. Coaches can still coach, kids can still play, but they will have to do so under the umbrella of a Coalition member organization. These are the exact same standards that we currently enforce with all of the existing community and school organizations that govern youth basketball within their respective communities or schools.
COALITION MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA:
In order to be considered for Coalition membership, an organization must agree to the following "Best Practices" that are also expected of established community or school associations.
- The organization must provide an approved Education and Evaluation System for ALL of their coaches.
- The organization must conduct background checks on ALL coaches and administrative personnel.
- At the bare minimum, Coalition members must provide proof of liability insurance coverage. It is also highly recommended that Coalition members provide medical accident insurance for their coaches and athletes.
- The organization must agree to limit their recruitment and acceptance of only those athletes that live or go to school within their respective Minneapolis or St. Paul city boundaries. (The current MYAS policy on player waivers would apply to Coalition members, just as it does now for established community or school associations.)
- The organization must have an established democratic posture (i.e. must have a Board of Directors, Administrative Committees or staff) that allows for the open exchange of ideas, concerns and suggestions.
- The organization must agree to promote a comprehensive basketball program. Specifically, Coalition member organizations must attempt to provide basketball experiences for "A", "B" and "C" level basketball teams. Note: Providing a "Rec" level of participation is not necessary. Rec level athletes should be referred to the Minneapolis or St. Paul Parks and Recreation programs.
- The organization must agree to an open try-out process for players and an open application process for coaching candidates.
- The organization must abide by the rules, regulations and policies established by the majority of the Coalition member organizations.
HOW WILL THE MYAS ASSIST WITH THIS PROCESS?
The MYAS does not have deep pockets but we do have access to a lot of technology, information, expertise and buying power that can be used to assist with the success of this effort. We are willing to offer the following areas of assistance until both Coalitions are prepared to stand on their own.
- We will dedicate a specific page on our website for Coalition member organizations.
- We will assist the Coalition members with their fund raising efforts.
- We will assist the Coalition members with some of the administrative tasks related to the coordination and delivery of their services.
- We will assist with the advertising of their try-outs, coach recruitment and event advertisement.
- We will assist with equipment and uniform purchases by coordinating our group buying power.
- We will serve as a resource center for information relative to background checks, coaches' education, game officials, insurance concerns, by-laws, best practices, etc.
- We will assist with securing facilities for try-outs, practices, games and events.
- We will assist with the creation of a St. Paul/Minneapolis youth basketball league, if so desired.
- We will assist with the creation and delivery of an "Athlete/Parent Education Program."
- We will assist with the training of game officials.
WHAT CAN YOUR ASSOCIATION DO TO HELP?
Want to be a "Sister Association?" We would hope that the suburban associations will embrace what we are trying to do, as we believe that this approach is a better way to provide a quality youth sport experience for the kids of St. Paul and Minneapolis than the current status quo. We will be encouraging all of the existing youth basketball associations to welcome these Coalition teams with open arms into your tournaments. We would also hope that your teams will come to participate in Coalition sponsored events. We will be actively looking to recruit area associations that will agree to serve as "Sister Associations" to the Coalition member organizations. We need to build a bridge between the inner cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis and the rest of our Minnesota youth basketball populations. We hope that this effort is the foundation for a better basketball future.
TIMELINE NOTES:
This is the beginning of a process that may take several years to get fine tuned. We fully expect that some of our initial ideas and concepts may have to be modified to get the desired results. Our crystal ball isn't any clearer than yours, so we invite your comments and suggestions. Our goal is to do what we think is right for youth basketball.
SELECTION PROCESS:
If you are a St. Paul- or Minneapolis-based youth basketball organization and if you are interested in being considered as a Coalition member organization, please contact Dan Klinkhammer or Rich Penick at 763-781-2220. They will give you all the information necessary for you to complete your application for consideration. All written applications need to be filed prior to January 1, 2011. The selections will take place soon thereafter and we hope to have the foundation of this project well underway prior to the MYAS Grade Basketball State Championships in March of 2011.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The information and directives included above are relative to the WINTER BASKETBALL SEASON ONLY! The spring, summer and fall programs are designed to accommodate bona fide association or club teams, as well as independent teams. Therefore, we will continue to accept individual independent teams in our spring, summer and fall basketball offerings.
Your support is crucial to the success of this effort. Thank you!
MYAS Golf Tournament Update
The MYAS Golf Tournament is coming up on Saturday, October 9 at Columbia Golf Course. We hope you will join us at this fun event!
We are starting to collect some great door prizes and have already received items from the Minnesota Wild, Baltimore Orioles, Nickelodeon Universe, Water Park of America and Majestic Oaks Golf Club as well as many hotel nights at great properties. We have much more coming, including an autographed item from 2009 American League MVP Joe Mauer. Everyone will receive a goody bag as well.
We currently have eight hole sponsorship opportunities still available - each hole sells for $50. We are anticipating having 100 golfers playing in the event.
Click here for registration information. Foursomes are only $300 and include a buffet lunch. If you have any items to donate please let us know. Our goal is to have an equal number of door prizes and players. For more information contact Dan Craighead at 763-746-1727 or dc@myas.org.
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 view our page. To get started, go to www.facebook.com and sign up for a free account. If you already have an account, simply login 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.
Prepare for Basketball Try-Outs with House of Speed
The House of Speed is excited to offer an elite program to give your players a competitive edge for try-outs. This program is designed for athletes entering 5th to 8th grade traveling basketball. We can offer your players either a combination basketball skills/athletic training program, or one that focuses strictly on making your players faster, quicker and better conditioned for try-outs.
The first option combines basketball skills training with athletic training. We have two House of Speed trainers who provide excellent basketball training:
- Jaime Gaard - assistant girls' varsity coach for Edina
- Rob Lyons - extensive experience coaching in Coon Rapids basketball; former NFL player
Either of these trainers is available to develop basketball-specific skills: shooting, ball handling, passing, rebounding and defense. In addition, they can help develop an explosive first step, quicker lateral movement, increased foot speed and improved vertical leap.
The second option is for teams that already have skill sessions planned for this fall. Let us add our elite speed, agility and explosiveness training to your program. Most athletes never learn how to run, cut, change directions or jump properly. This lack of athletic training often prevents them from taking their game to the next level.
- We can travel to a location convenient for you.
- Our prices are affordable and will depend on the number of sessions and athletes enrolled.
- We need a minimum of 15 players and 5 sessions to offer this program.
I'm happy to provide you with more information about our programs. My contact information is listed below. We are excited to help your players excel during try-outs this year!
Craig Gudorf - Franchise Owner
House of Speed Minneapolis
952-236-7112
craig.gudorf@houseofspeed.com
Borton's Bench Notes
Coach Borton's column will return in the October 1 issue of the MYAS Update.
Sports Medicine Tip
Shoulder Impingement Common in Young Athletes
By Darcy Schubloom, PT
Adolescent athletes often suffer from one of two types of shoulder conditions: shoulder instability or shoulder impingement.
Young athletes who use their arms overhead for swimming, baseball and tennis are particularly vulnerable. Anyone who does repetitive lifting or overhead activities using the arm, such as with construction or painting, are also susceptible. Pain may also develop as the result of minor trauma or spontaneously with no apparent cause.
Impingement results from pressure placed on the rotator cuff in the front of the shoulder as the arm is raised.
The rotator cuff is a tendon linking four muscles which cover the "ball" of the shoulder (head of the humerus). These muscles work together to lift and rotate the shoulder.
The acromion is the front edge of the shoulder blade. It sits over and in front of the humeral head. As the arm is lifted the acromion abnormally rubs or "impinges" on the surface of the rotator cuff. This causes pain and limits movement.
Impingement often occurs from a muscular imbalance between the pecs and the muscles in front of the shoulder and the scapular or shoulder blade muscles in the back. Repetitive overhead, forward motions over-develop these front muscles.
Symptoms:
- Minor pain and stiffness in the front or top of the shoulder with activity and at rest
- Pain radiating from the front of the shoulder to the side of the arm
- Sudden pain with lifting and reaching movements
- Pain when the arm is lowered from an elevated position
- Athletes in overhead sports may have pain when throwing or swimming certain strokes
Treatment:
This condition is best treated with scapular strengthening exercises. A rehabilitation specialist such as a physical therapist (PT) or certified athletic trainer (ATC) can teach the affected individual how to strengthen the lower trapezius, middle trapezius and serratus anterior. Most of these exercises involve squeezing the shoulder blades back while avoiding elevation of the shoulder toward the ear. These are generally done with rowing-type activities. Stretching exercises to improve range of motion in a stiff shoulder will also help.
Your doctor may also suggest rest and avoiding overhead activities for a time. He or she might prescribe a course of oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication.
For more information about physical therapy and athletic training services, call the Institute for Athletic Medicine (IAM) at 612-672-7100 or the 24-hour Injury Hotline at 952-920-8850. Visit us online at www.athleticmedicine.org.
About the author
Physical therapist Darcy Schubloom cares for patients at the Institute for Athletic Medicine (IAM) - Roseville where he also serves as clinic supervisor. He is a specialty provider for the IAM Thrower's Injury Program (TIP). Darcy provides physical therapy for a broad range of conditions and has a special interest in shoulder care.
The Institute for Athletic Medicine is part of Fairview's family of orthopedic services which includes Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care, Fairview Hand Center, Fairview Orthotics and Prosthetics and Fairview Home Medical Equipment.
At Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care we specialize in muscles, bones and joints. Convenient locations. One number to call. 612-672-7100. fairview.org/fsoc
Then And Now - by Larry Gallagher
HEAD TO HEAD COMPETITION
When I read about sports and the phrase "head to head" is mentioned, I sometimes cringe because of what this could mean to the athlete. I know that most of the time we are speaking of how the teams did when they played against each other, and the phrase is sometimes used to mean placing one team ahead of another in tournament or league standings.
However, when I see it stated it often brings to mind the idea that two players have made head to head contact in a sport like football. The result of the collision oftentimes results in a concussion for one or both of the players involved.
In the early days of football, the sport was almost banned by Teddy Roosevelt because of the number of deaths that had occurred. The NCAA was formed primarily to come up with a plan to eliminate these deaths. The plan worked for awhile, but as equipment has evolved and players have increased in size and speed the collisions that occur in football and other sports (such as baseball, soccer, hockey, etc.) have brought to light the immediate danger of how concussions can lead to real problems for athletes.
Anyone connected with sports today almost needs a medical doctor's knowledge of how to treat and take care of concussions. The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has placed within reach some very sound advice if an athlete appears to have been concussed. The NCAA also has some guidelines in this regard. The NFL has put into place a program for handling concussions for teams and officials. Justin Morneau of the Minnesota Twins has missed more than a month of playing time and an appearance in the All Star Game because of a concussion he sustained while sliding into a base.
I have recently read in the news that Lou Gehrig may not have died from ALS but rather as the result of a lifetime of concussions. There is no real proof of this but they have recently spent some time looking at the symptoms of ALS and how they relate to concussions; the symptoms are very similar.
Let's look at the NFHS policy on handling concussions as of the 2010-11 school year. Again, this is for all sports and not just the most obvious.
All of the coming year's NFHS rule books state something like, "Any player who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion...shall be immediately removed from the game and shall not return to play until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional" (Football rule 3-5-10b). In the past, officials were to remove the athlete from play if "unconscious or apparently unconscious." The previous rule also allowed for return to play based solely upon written authorization by a medical doctor or osteopath.
Now, officials are required to remove the player that shows signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion based solely upon guidance from the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisor Committee (SMAC) [don't you think "SMAC" is appropriate for the topic of concussions?] and shall not return to play until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional, as defined by the state association. Since the large majority of concussions do not include loss of consciousness, but athletes show obvious evidence of concussion, the SMAC strongly believes that officials must "continue to be empowered to remove these athletes, thus protecting them from further injury," says Dr. Michael Koester, chair of the SMAC.
What this means is that the safety of the athlete is more important than winning a game or any more playing time for the athlete until he/she is cleared for participation. In my estimation this is a long overdue mandate to protect the athlete. Too many officials and coaches have not understood the process and have ignorantly downplayed the seriousness of this injury. In other words, in the past it was considered "being a man" to continue to play instead of taking the intelligent way and not letting the athlete play. "Having your bell wrung" is no longer something we should tolerate by letting the athlete continue to play. We all need to work for better protection for the athletes and minimize the opportunities for having a concussion occur.
There is no longer any written authorization necessary for the return of the athlete to play, but I think this is where they have made a mistake. I believe written authorization should be necessary once an official has removed an athlete from competition due to symptoms of a concussion. In fact, if removed, the athlete should not be allowed to play at all that day until he is seen by a health-care person. From my point of view, the next day is the earliest this athlete should be allowed to return to competition.
Here are three plays and rulings that were included in the 2010 NFHS Football Pre-Season Booklet published by Referee Enterprises, Inc., in cooperation with the NFHS.
Play 1: A1 is injured by a legal hit and is slow to get to his feet. When he does get up, he holds his head and has trouble maintaining his balance. Ruling: The officials must remove A1 from the game based on the symptoms detailed by the NFHS SMAC. As with any injured player situation, A1 must sit out at least one down. Whether or not A1 may return is left to the appropriate health-care professional who examines A1.
Play 2: With 4:37 to play in the 1st quarter, A1 exhibits signs of a possible concussion and was sent out of the game by the officials. When the 2nd quarter begins, A1 is sent back into the game. Ruling: Legal. If A1 returns, the officials are to assume an appropriate health-care professional approved, as re-entry is a coach's decision. However, if A1 again shows signs consistent with a concussion, he should be sent off again.
Play 3: A1 sustains a hard but legal hit and is slow in getting to his feet. When he does get up, he holds his head and begins to stagger some. The officials send A1 off the field. There is no appropriate health-care professional on site. A1 is sent back into the game after sitting out one down. Ruling: Responsibility for A1's return falls on the head coach. The officials are not required to determine if an appropriate health-care professional has examined and cleared A1.
So, as we continue to monitor this new rule for football and other sports this year, I am suggesting that we do need to change it a little to make sure that the health-care professional should be telling the officials that he has cleared the player to play again. Again, this is only my opinion and not that of the NFHS. Right now the only responsibility of the official is to know the symptoms and to send the player off the field for at least one play and accept his return because he has been cleared by someone who is a health-care professional.
Most of the information included in this article is from the 2010 NFHS Football Pre-Season Booklet published by Referee Enterprises, Inc., in cooperation with the NFHS.
Gopher State Volleyball Fall Championships
The fourth annual Gopher State Volleyball Fall Championships will be held on November 7, 2010 (site is TBD). This event is a great opportunity for your team to play against the "best of the best" and to finish the season with a first class tournament!
For more information, please keep checking the Fall Championship web page, which will be updated as more details become available. In the meantime, you may also contact Jessica Christopherson at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
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 screen pass behind the neutral zone. The pass is touched in or behind the neutral zone by Player B1 and continues in flight beyond the neutral zone. (a) Player A2 has gone downfield and blocks Player B2 before the pass is touched; or (b) ineligible A2 is downfield beyond the neutral zone before A1's pass is in flight. What is the ruling in each case?
2. During a forward-pass play in which the ball crosses the neutral zone, Player A1, ineligible receiver, is illegally downfield and: (a) Player B1 illegally contacts him with an elbow; or (b) A1 blocks B1. What is the ruling in each case?
3. Eligible receiver A1 blocks an opponent 10 yards downfield while the pass is in flight. The pass is completed to Player A2 who is: (a) beyond the neutral zone; or (b) behind the neutral zone when he catches the ball. When the covering official observes the block by A1 during a forward pass, he immediately drops a flag to indicate an infraction. What is the ruling in each case?
Gopher State Basketball All-Star Weekend
The inaugural Gopher State Basketball All-Star celebration weekend was a huge success. "Wow!" is all one can say after watching the talent all weekend. The skill level and speed of the games were unbelievable to witness. A total of 255 8th-11th grade players were selected to participate based upon nominations from our spring coaches.
The weekend kicked off on Friday, July 30 with the opening ceremonies and spotlight introductions of all the players and coaches. The festivities continued with the first ever All-Star Skills Contests. The boys were jumping out of the gym in their dunk contest; the girls' contest featured an 8-foot basket and the crowd erupted when a 360-degree slam was made! After the excitement of the dunk competition, we watched as players rained in shots in the 3-point shooting contest and showed their speed, agility and basketball skills in the timed skills challenge. Check out the All-Star Weekend pictures on the MYAS Facebook page.
It was truly a pleasure watching all the talented players compete in the games on Saturday and Sunday. The All-Star Weekend gave more than 20 college coaches and recruiters an opportunity to see many of the top basketball players in the state, as well as a few talented players from North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin who were selected to participate. There are so many talented players at all age levels that Minnesota should continue to be a hotbed for college recruiters for years to come.
We have already begun planning for the 2011 Gopher State All-Star Weekend. We will be adding a 13U/7th grade division and we want to have separate 16U/10th grade and 17U/11th grade divisions so we can showcase even more of Minnesota's basketball talent.
It has been a great spring and summer for Minnesota basketball. Once again, we sincerely thank you for your participation in MYAS-sponsored tournaments this past year and we wish all of you a safe and fun-filled rest of the summer. We look forward to seeing you in the gym this fall!
Gopher State Spring Basketball Girls' Champion Night with the Lynx
The MYAS held a "Champions Night with the Minnesota Lynx" event on Thursday, August 12, 2010. Seven of our Gopher State Spring Basketball girls' championship teams participated in this event.
The championship teams that took part at the Target Center were Roseville Raiders 10U, Chaska 11U, Rogers Royals 12U, Chaska Hawks 13U, Buffalo 16U, Lakes Area Stars 17U and Buffalo Bison 17U. In addition to taking in the game and being recognized on the court, the teams also got to meet Lynx star Charde Houston after the game.
Check out the MYAS Facebook page to view photos from this special night!
MYAS Gopher State Fall Basketball League - Don't Fall Behind
Information for the 2010 MYAS Gopher State Fall Basketball League is posted on the MYAS website. Last year we had more than 425 registered teams in grades 4-12. The Fall League was developed as and is intended to be a "tune-up" for winter travel/school basketball, and it is always our hope that teams will enjoy the experience the league provides.
Don't delay - the Fall League entry deadline is Friday, September 3. Make your plans to join us on September 19 & 26 and October 3 & 10. Come see why the Gopher State Fall Basketball League is the largest fall basketball league in the state!
We have also added a tournament on the weekend of October 16-17. The 2010 Gopher State Fall Classic will be open to all teams, regardless of whether or not they played in the Gopher State Fall Basketball League.
Second Session for High School Teams: In an effort to bridge the gap between the end of the Gopher State Fall Basketball League and the start of the high school season, we have created a Second Session. Now teams have the opportunity to play right up until their tryouts. Players can work on their skills and conditioning and coaches will be able to observe the players in game situations. The Second Session is not a league - your team can play on any or all five of the available dates in October and November.
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.
TESTIMONIALS
Bill Kemble, CAA Basketball President: Every fall several teams of Chanhassen Athletic Association (CAA) basketball players participate in the MYAS Gopher State Fall Basketball League. Most of our players utilize this league as a way to gear up for traveling team tryouts and the winter basketball season. Others who may not have a primary sport like the league as a bridge between summer and winter activities. The MYAS Gopher State Fall Basketball League is efficiently organized and well run, and offers an appropriate level of competition. I highly recommend it.
Jill Becken, Centennial Girls' Varsity Coach: Our teams at Centennial have always enjoyed playing in the Gopher State Fall Basketball League. It helps gear them up for the upcoming basketball season and gives them a chance to play against some good competition. It is a well run organization!
2010-11 Basketball Invitational Tournament Books
The 2010-11 MYAS girls' and boys' basketball invitational tournament books are available now!
Included in the books are flyers for more than 200 girls' and boys' invitational tournaments throughout the metro area and greater Minnesota. The books also feature the latest information on MYAS fall and winter basketball programs, as well as important information from a number of our generous sponsors.
If you would like to order one or more copies of the 2010-11 tournament books, please click here to download the order form.
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 Programs - 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.
MYAS Winter Basketball Jamboree
The MYAS Winter Basketball Jamboree was created to provide newly formed traveling basketball teams with an opportunity to play multiple scrimmage games in one day. We had a whopping 96 boys' and girls' teams participate in the inaugural event, and the 2010 Jamboree should feature another great day of youth basketball!
The Winter Jamboree is for boys' and girls' teams in grades 4-8. This year's event will be held on Saturday, October 30 at the Bloomington Jefferson HS/Activity Center, where there are seven full-sized wood courts under one roof! The entry fee is $125 per team and all teams will play three scrimmage games throughout the day.
Please click here to download the Winter Jamboree entry form. If you would like more information in the meantime, please contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org.
MYAS Winter Basketball Tournaments and Leagues
The 2010-11 MYAS winter basketball calendar is being continuously updated and is nearly complete. We will once again offer 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 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.
Even though the 2011 Championships are on the distant horizon, we are already gearing up for another phenomenal state tournament. Next spring's event will take place on March 5-6 (girls) and March 12-13 (boys). All of the pertinent information will be available on the Grade State web page by the end of September. We hope to see you in March for another exciting wrap-up to the 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.
If you have any questions, please contact Eric Rathke at 763-746-1730 or eric@myas.org.
MYAS Grade State Basketball Championships - no other experience compares!
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 has just scored a goal. The ball is bouncing close to the end line when: (a) Player A1 calls for a time-out; or (b) A1 illegally contacts Player B1. What is the ruling in each case?
2. Player A1 taps the ball and it enters the basket: (a) before time expires; or (b) after time expires. What is the ruling in each case?
3. As the hand of Player A1 contacts the ball to tap it toward Team A's basket, Player B1 fouls A1. The ball definitely is not airborne from the hand of A1 when the contact occurs, but the tapped ball goes in the basket. What is the ruling?
MYAS Rec State Baseball Championships
The 2010 MYAS Rec State Baseball Championships witnessed 124 teams in six age divisions have a blast competing for a state title. Complete tournament results are available on the Rec State Baseball page of the MYAS website.
We would like to congratulate all of the teams that helped make this one of the most competitive tournaments in the history of the event. Great job everyone!
Congratulations to the following teams for their first place finishes in the 2010 MYAS Rec State Baseball Championships:
4th Grade / 10U Champions * Midway Thunder
5th Grade / 11U Champions * Cloquet
6th Grade / 12U Champions * St. Paul Dunning
7th Grade / 13U Champions * Robbinsdale Owls
8th-9th Grade / 14-15U Blue Division Champions * Plymouth/Wayzata Blue
8th-9th Grade / 14-15U Red Division Champions * Elk River Anytime Fitness
10th-12th Grade / 16-18U Champions * North St. Paul Renegades
The MYAS would like to send a huge thank you to our 2010 Rec State hosts: Andover Baseball Association, Blaine Traveling Baseball / Soderville Athletic Association, Brooklyn Park Babe Ruth, Brooklyn Park Baseball Association, Coon Rapids Baseball, Fridley Baseball and St. Paul Dunning Boosters. Without the help of these great hosts, this tournament would not be possible.
Gopher State Fall Baseball League
The Gopher State Fall Baseball League and the Advanced Fall Baseball League are looking amazing for 2010! We are absolutely delighted with the number of players, coaches and supportive parents who are looking forward to more baseball this season. In 2009 we had our largest league representation with 264 teams, and when the numbers are final this year we will have reached nearly 300 teams. What a great way to celebrate the success of youth baseball in Minnesota - truly remarkable!
The league coaches' meeting will take place at 7:00pm on Wednesday, September 1 at the Ramada Mpls. NW/Grand Rios in Brooklyn Park. At the meeting we will be distributing the team jersey shirts, team hats, rosters, schedules, league scorebooks, game baseballs and coach information packets to all head coaches in attendance.
It is crucial that the head coach of each team be present in order to insure that they understand the different league procedures and obtain all pertinent information from the MYAS baseball staff.
The Fall Baseball League will run for five consecutive Sundays beginning on September 12. If there are any weather-related issues during the league, the designated "make-up" date is October 17.
Good luck to all the participating teams this fall - we are looking forward to a wonderful fall baseball season.
Gopher State Winter Baseball Camps
Gopher State Winter Baseball Camps are open to youth athletes of all ages and skill levels. Our featured camps offer top-notch professional instruction and there are a variety of camps to choose from during the baseball off-season.
Camps will be offered during the months of November through March. Instruction will be provided by the Minnesota Baseball Academy, Twins Training Camps, the Lovdahl Pitching Academy and other top instructors from the Minnesota baseball world.
Look for more information on the Gopher State Winter Baseball Camp web page by October 1. If you have questions in the meantime, please contact Jeremy Barbe at 763-746-1731 or jbarbe@myas.org.
MYAS Baseball Informational Meetings for 2011
The MYAS/Gopher State baseball staff is currently setting up meetings for associations that would like to receive more information and learn why their teams should participate in our comprehensive baseball program.
If you would like to set up an MYAS/Gopher State informational meeting between our baseball staff and your youth baseball association board of directors, please do not hesitate to contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
MYAS Latest News (as of 8/26/10)
Visit us on Facebook!
Fall Basketball League Entry Deadline is September 3rd
Basketball Invitational Tournament Books Now Available
MYAS Winter Basketball Jamboree Info
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
Basketball Current News
Baseball T-Shirt Sale!
Valleyfair Discount Tickets Available - save $9.99 per person!
2010 MYAS Golf Tournament - Saturday, October 9
Vikings Preseason Tickets Available - Save up to $58 per seat!
MYAS Calendar (as of 8/26/10)
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Gopher State Fall Baseball League Coaches' Meeting; 7:00pm; Ramada Mpls. NW / Grand Rios
Friday, September 3, 2010
Gopher State Fall Basketball League entry deadline (begins Sept. 19)
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Gopher State Fall Baseball League play date; various ages/grades/divisions & sites
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
MYAS Basketball Officials' Clinic; 7:00pm; Sunrise Middle School, White Bear Lake
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Gopher State Fall Basketball League play date; various grades/divisions & sites
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Gopher State Fall Baseball League play date; various ages/grades/divisions & sites
Thursday, September 23, 2010
MYAS Basketball Officials' Clinic; 7:00pm; Sunrise Middle School, White Bear Lake
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Gopher State Fall Basketball League play date; various grades/divisions & sites
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Gopher State Fall Baseball League play date; various ages/grades/divisions & sites
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. Legal in both (a) and (b) as B1 touched the pass in or behind the neutral zone. COMMENT: The key to whether the action in (a) and (b) is legal is determined by the fact that the pass was touched by B in or behind the neutral zone, even though it went beyond the neutral zone. In both (a) and (b)
A2's being downfield and blocking is not restricted because the pass was touched by B in or behind the neutral zone. Therefore, A2 is not an ineligible downfield illegally (Case Book 7.5.7 Situation A page 56).
2. In (a), the personal foul by B1 and A1's foul for being downfield combine to make a double foul and the down will be replayed. The contact by B1 is not defensive pass interference because A1 was an ineligible receiver. Defensive pass interference may occur only against eligible receivers. Had there been no contact and had ineligible A1 touched such a pass, the result would have been illegal touching. In (b), it is a multiple foul for an ineligible illegally downfield and also offensive pass interference (Case Book 7.5.10 Situation A page 57).
3. It is a foul for pass interference in (a) and a legal block in (b). It was proper for the covering official downfield in (b) to indicate a possible infraction because he had no way of knowing whether the pass was beyond the neutral zone (Case Book 7.5.10 Situation B page 57).
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 Rule Book, Basketball Case Book and/or Rules by Topic publication.
1. In order to rule correctly, it depends on whether the bouncing ball is judged to be at the thrower's disposal. If the covering official judges it is at the thrower's disposal, he/she would start the count and the ball becomes live. In this case, in (a) no time-out is granted and the foul in (b) is penalized. If the ball is not at the thrower's disposal, the time-out is granted in (a) and the contact in (b) is ignored unless it is intentional or flagrant. COMMENT:
In this situation, the covering official must give the new throw-in team a moment or two to recognize it is their ball for a throw-in and get a player into the area to pick up the ball. If the ball is near the end line, it is the throw-in team's responsibility to secure it and throw-in from anywhere out of bounds along the end line. The covering official shall start his/her throw-in count when it is determined the ball is available (Case Book 6.1.2 Situation B page 50).
2. In (a) and (b), it is a legal goal and two points are scored. In both (a) and (b), a tap ends exactly as a try (Case Book 6.7.6 Situation B page 56).
3. The foul does not cause the ball to become dead immediately. The subsequent tap of the ball results in a goal, the same as a try for a goal. The foul is penalized the same as being fouled in the act of shooting. Continuous motion does apply to a tap (Case Book 6.7.7 Situation page 56).
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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