Youth Basketball League
Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District's regular youth basketball league play for youngsters ends in late February, but is followed by post-season tournament play from February 29 through March 10. More than 800boys and girls are registered for the league this season.
Over the past few months, youth teams, such as the Buckeyes, Lakers, Bruins, The Inferno, The Hot Shots, and more, have been competing on the court each week. At the end of the season, awards will be given for first and second place for league play. Awards will also be presented for post season play.
One of the most coveted awards is the Team Sportsmanship Award. This is given to all teams who qualify. Points are awarded after each game based on good sportsmanship conduct by the players, coaches and fans. Points are deducted for poor sportsmanship exhibited by the same groups. Currently, 36 teams out of 80 are still in the running for a Team Sportsmanship Award.
Co-Ed Youth League
Registrations for the Spring Co-Ed Youth Instructional Basketball League will be accepted in early March. Children ages 5-8 will be able to have their parents sign them up on Friday, March 2, from 5-7 pm, and Saturday, March 3, 9am-12 noon at the Rancho Santa Susana Community Center, 5005-C Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley.
This is a non-competitive, instructional league that begins on March 19 and ends on June 2. Participants will practice once each week and play one game on the weekend. Each child will receive a uniform shirt to wear during the course of the program and a participation award at the end. The cost to participate is $80, which includes t-shirt, photo package and award. Program director, Dale Long, encourages parents to sign their children up to play, "This is a popular program that teaches children the fundamentals of basketball in a non-competitive environment. Parents who choose to coach a team have the added bonus of spending time with their child enjoying a sports activity."
Coaches and assistant coaches are being recruited for all basketball programs. For more information on either of the basketball leagues, or for coaching information, please contact Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District (805) 584-4400.