1. When do they play? The season runs from late November through the beginning of March. There is a break in play during most of the Lucia Mar Christmas break. Teams play roughly once a week, either on week nights or Saturdays. Schedules will be available before the start of games.

2. Where do they play? The league uses the gyms at Paulding, Judkins, St. Patrick’s, Mesa, Arroyo Grande High School and First Assembly of God/Pacific Coast Christian.

3. When and where are practices? Practices are scheduled by the coach. The league does not have gym time available for practices. Most coaches use the outdoor courts at the local schools and will practice once (or twice) a week.

4. What team will my son/daughter be on? There is no guarantee your child will be placed on a team from their school; however, most often players are grouped loosely by the school they attend to allow for ease of practice. Many schools will have more than one team and the league’s Board of Directors balances the player pool for each school.

5. Who will be my son’s/daughter’s coach? All of the league’s coaches participate on a volunteer basis. Most are parents of players. We do have other volunteers who coach on an as needed basis.

6. Will my son/daughter have the same coach as last year? Possibly, but not necessarily. The list of coaches changes each season. There is no carry-over of previous years’ rosters. The rosters are made from scratch each season and coaches do not have input as to their roster before receiving it.

7. Is there a uniform required? The league supplies a team shirt for each player, which is his/hers to keep. The preferred uniform is the team shirt, white or black shorts, non-marking basketball shoes and socks. Shoes, socks and shorts are the player’s responsibility.

8. What does my registration fee cover? The school district charges us for the use of their gyms. Private gyms cost much more. We also pay for secondary insurance. Jerseys, basketballs, first aid kits, referee shirts and whistles, trophies/awards, clerical supplies, administrative costs and gym supervision expenses are included in our costs. A photo package is also included in your registration fee.

9. Will we have to sell candy or do any other fundraising? No.

10. What else is required of the parents? Although we have coupled with the City of Arroyo Grande and the San Luis Obispo County YMCA, the Five Cities Youth Basketball league continues to rely on volunteers. Your help in coaching, refereeing, scorekeeping, running the clock, team parenting and helping us with school coordination is essential in keeping the fees down and is greatly appreciated.