What is the ALTBA? The ALTBA was created to formally organize a Travel Basketball program in Avon Lake. Its purpose is to develop Avon Lake boys and girls in the advanced fundamentals and skills required to excel, compete and enjoy the game of basketball. ALTBA provides the opportunity to increase the quality of play through competitive up-tempo games.
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What League does the ALTBA participate? ALTBA participates in the Lake Erie Basketball League (LEBL) and is associated with other Northeast Ohio leagues. The LEBL is a developmental travel basketball league for community based 4th-6th grade boys and 5th-6th grade girls. The LEBL formed in 1996 to provide competitive travel basketball for community teams that did not have organized leagues such as the CYO league. The LEBL boasts over 100 teams. All players must be from the same community. The LEBL accepts a maximum of two teams (2) per grade with ten (10) kids per team. The LEBL follows standard basketball rules. You can find out more about the LEBL by visiting http://eteamz.active.com/lebl |
Is the ALTBA part of the Recreation Department or Avon Lake City Schools? No. The ALTBA fully supports the Recreation Department and cooperates with Avon Lake Administration; however, the ALTBA is an independent organization similar to the travel soccer organization (ALSO). The ALTBA is self-funded and directed by a board of directors. |
What type of time & financial commitment is required to join a travel team? Practices generally are twice a week lasting 2 hours per practice. In addition to practice, most teams scrimmage 2-3 times per month at various locations. The LEBL has 10 regular season games usually Saturday or Sunday from Thanksgiving through February. A LEBL tournament concludes the end of the year. Most ALTBA teams participate in 3-4 post-season and in-season tournaments. The season typically runs from September thru March (7 months). The players are expected to attend all practices and games. You can expect to invest between $250-$350 consisting of league fees, uniforms and post-season tournament fees. Fees may vary depending on tournaments. |
What type of game playing time is expected? The ALTBA is a competitive basketball program. Each player will play in every game; however, playing time is solely determined by the coaches and is not open for debate or discussion. Generally, game playing time is equal throughout the regular season and a more aggressive approach is taken in the end-of-season tournaments. Significant learning takes place during the “college style” practices as the boys/girls are exposed to a wide variety of advanced drills focused on all aspects of the game; team and individual. Practices are not optional; boys/girls are expected to make practices. |
Can I choose/request a specific coach if applicable? No. Team rosters are solely determined by the ALTBA and the assigned Coaches. |
What can I expect during the try-out clinic? Participants will be exposed to a wide variety of drills that are designed to evaluate the following categories: o Listening Skills: Following instructions, paying attention, execution o Offense: Lay-ups, Shooting Form, Ball Handling (Dribbling), Passing o Defense: Footwork, Court Awareness o Athleticism: Movement, Control, Agility, Speed/Quickness Proper explanation and instruction will be given to all boys/girls in order to ensure each participant understands what is expected. Your son/daughter will learn many new drills and skills that they can utilize at home to improve their game. |
How are the teams determined? All Players are ranked numerically by the above mentioned categories. Rankings are determined by the coaches and independent 3rd party raters. In addition to the rankings, teams also consider certain intangibles such as team position requirements and experience. The ALTBA consults with the Coaches to determine the final team rosters. All team roster decisions are final. |
How will we be notified after tryouts? You will be notified by phone shortly following the try-out clinic. Due to vacations etc. there may be a make-up date established. If this is the case, official notifications will take place following the make up date. You will be expected to confirm your son/daughter’s participation over the phone. If you are undecided, the coach will proceed to the next individual. |
If my son/daughter is not selected what other options do I have? Unfortunately, as much as we would like, we are unable to select every participant. The LEBL specifies that they will accept two (2) teams of no more than 10 players per team, per grade. However, there are travel alternatives available should you wish to pursue additional options: • Avon Lake Recreation League • AAU Basketball Try-outs (SMAC or TNBA) • CYO Basketball (if applicable) • Western Reserve Basketball League (Twinsburg) • Year-end Rec Basketball Community Tournament Team |