Teams playing in semi-finals and Under 8 games this weekend should be aware of the following information:

Under 8 Presentations

We have a large number of games and teams to get through on the day, so we will be trying to keep the presentations nice and sharp to allow all teams and players a chance to be recognised in front of the crowd. To this end, we would ask that teams be considerate of other members on the day in regards to:

-         -  Moving promptly to the Club Room at the conclusion of games to allow for a quick start to the presentations.

-          - Having players sit with their teams at the front of the room, with coaches not too far away, and parents/spectators at the back.

-         -  Making speeches positive and fun but also a reasonable length. In depth speeches that recognise the efforts of each player are great but probably best left to individual team functions. It is appropriate to quickly thank your players, families, team managers, assistant coaches etc. then invite players up on stage to receive their participation award and for parents to get photos of the team.

-         -  Remaining seated/standing quietly until all teams have had a chance to be recognised and congratulated. It is always disappointing for teams to try and have their presentations while other teams are leaving the room. The presentations won’t go for too long so if teams could remain for the duration, it would be greatly appreciated.

Under 8 Timing Rules

On account of our big program on Saturday, and recognising that the Under 8 games are ‘exhibition games’ only, we will be playing these games with a running clock. This is being done in an effort to ensure that games are run to schedule and referees are always available to begin the next games on time. An added bonus is that it means all teams should be ready to go with the presentations on time. Given the clock won’t be stopping, teams will not be allowed to call time-outs in the final three minutes of the second half. The timing rules for these games will be clearly displayed on the score benches on Saturday.

Semi-Final Timing Rules

Semi-Final games will operate with the same timing rules as during the season. Should the game be a draw at the end of regulation, an extra five minutes will be played. Timing rules, including overtime, will be prominently displayed around the stadium and on score benches. Sunday games are operating on 50 minute timeslots but will still use standard timing rules.

Smooth Running of Games

It’s no secret that Saturday is a big program, the biggest we have ever had on Semi-Final Day. We need the help of teams to ensure the day runs as smoothly as possible, mostly just by exhibiting common courtesy, such as:

-          - Clearing the bench and court area quickly at the end of games so the next team has a chance to put their gear down and warm up.

-          - Having teams ready to start games once the count-down timer has expired so as not to delay the start of games.

-          - Providing capable scorers to minimise delays caused by scoring and timing errors

Sportsmanship and Conduct

Since the return to basketball in the new year, we have experienced a near-weekly reporting of incidents taking place in junior games. Finals games can provide for an exciting atmosphere, but on that can also cause tension and stress. Coaches, parents and referees all have a part to play in exhibiting good sportsmanship and conduct at our junior games and setting an example for our young players to follow. Displays of unsportsmanlike behaviour and poor conduct will not be tolerated at finals games. We all have a responsibility to ensure young players have a positive and enjoyable experience at basketball, especially during finals games when there can be more energy  and emotion involved in games.

If there are any issues in games that cannot be solved amicably between coaches, referees and scorers, please make the Referee Supervisor aware of the situation as soon as possible.