Junior Varsity Basketball at Shenley: What You Need to Know
Are you or your kid looking for a place to play competitive yet fun basketball? Shenley’s junior varsity (JV) program is built for kids who want to step up from beginner leagues without the pressure of senior teams. Here’s a quick rundown of what the JV side offers, how to get involved, and some everyday tips to improve on the court.
Game Schedule and How to Stay Updated
Our JV season runs from early September to late April. Games are typically held on Thursday evenings at the Shenley Sports Centre, with a few weekend fixtures for cup tournaments. You’ll get an email calendar when you sign up, but we also post updates on the club’s website and social feeds every week. Missed a game? No worries – we upload scores and highlights within 24 hours so you can catch up.
Training Sessions That Actually Help
Practices happen twice a week: Monday evenings focus on fundamentals (dribbling, shooting form, defensive footwork), while Wednesday nights are all about team concepts and scrimmages. Coaches keep drills short and purposeful – we spend 15 minutes on a skill, then a quick game‑like situation to apply it. If you’re new to the program, expect a short skills assessment so the coach can tailor drills to your level.
Parents often wonder how much extra work is needed. A solid routine is 20‑minute ball‑handling drills at home a few times a week, plus a quick cardio burst (like jumping rope) before school. Consistency beats occasional marathon sessions, and the club provides printable drill sheets you can download.
Want to know what makes a JV player stand out? It’s not just raw talent – coaches love players who communicate, hustle back on defense, and show a willingness to learn. Showing up on time, listening during the brief tactical talks, and giving your teammates a high‑five after a good play goes a long way.
When it comes to equipment, you don’t need a fancy shoe. A good pair of indoor basketball shoes with ankle support is enough. Make sure your shirt has the club’s logo (we provide a free jersey for season‑long members) and that you have a water bottle – hydration is key during those Friday night games.
Signing up is straightforward. Head to the “Join” section on our website, fill out the junior varsity form, and pay the modest season fee. The fee covers court hire, match officials, a club‑branded jersey, and access to all training sessions. If cost is a concern, we offer a few scholarship spots each year – just ask the club secretary.
Got questions about eligibility? Players must be aged 13‑16 at the start of the season and have a basic level of basketball experience (typically one year in a beginner league). If your child is turning 13 halfway through the season, they can still join, but they’ll need to attend a brief orientation with the coach.
Beyond the court, being part of Shenley’s JV team builds friendships, discipline, and confidence. Many of our senior players started in JV, so you’re basically on the club’s talent pipeline. Coaches keep an eye on standout performers for future promotion to the senior squad.
Finally, remember that basketball is a team sport – enjoy the wins, learn from the losses, and keep a positive attitude. Whether you’re shooting your first three‑pointer or mastering a pick‑and‑roll, Shenley’s junior varsity program is here to help you grow.
Ready to lace up and join the fun? Check the schedule, sign up online, and see you on the court this season!
So, you're keen to shoot some hoops and join the freshman or junior varsity basketball team? Buckle up, buddy! First, you gotta eat, sleep and breathe basketball. The more you practice, the better you get. Second, think of Michael Jordan, not just for his cool sneakers, but his undying spirit. Never let failure discourage you, keep bouncing back! Third, fitness is key. No one wants a player gasping for breath halfway through the game. Lastly, be a team player. Remember, there's no 'I' in 'team', but there is in 'win'! Now, get out there and slam dunk your way into the team!
