There are many
misconceptions about competitive sports, so I will try to answer some of the
most frequently asked questions about our program:
Q: How do I find information about your teams and
clinics?
A: Our clinics
are posted on our website and are open to everyone, not just those participating
on Elite teams. Tryouts for our Spring/Summer teams will be held in
February. Details will also be posted here on the website.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Our
teaching clinics are usually free of charge. The Spring/Summer
participation fees for our teams range from $350 for ages 9-12 to $400 for ages
13 and up. This fee includes your uniform which is yours to keep after the
season and may possibly be used in future years. We have payment plans for
those wishing to break the amount into 3 payments. Some teams will choose
to do fundraisers to raise these funds instead of collecting them from the
families. The important thing to remember about our organization is that
100% of the funds collected from our teams go directly to that individual
team�s expenses. None of the money collected goes to administrative costs.
To the contrary, our organization raises additional funds to contribute to our
teams, above and beyond what is collected from the participation fee.
Q: Is there any financial assistance available?
A: The Elite
organization is committed to insuring that no child who is interested in our
program is denied the opportunity because of financial need. In 2004 we
were the first girls� basketball organization in Memphis to introduce a
comprehensive financial aid program. Through corporate donations, grants, and
generous sponsors, we have funds in place to assist those families in need.
Applications may be requested from the coaches or our Board members. A 3
person board reviews these applications, and all information and decisions are
kept in confidence. Coaches and other team members do not know if a family
is receiving financial aid.
Q: How much travel is involved?
A: This
normally depends on the individual team and the goals for that team.
Extremely competitive teams may choose to travel more to find the best
competition. As a general rule, most teams will travel to 3-4 out of town
tournaments. The Elite organization is hosting several tournaments this
year, which should reduce the need for excessive travel and will assist in
raising funds for our teams� expenses.
Q: What is the time commitment to play on an Elite
team?
A: Most teams
will practice 2-3 times during the week for approximately 2 hours each practice.
In addition, on weekends when the teams are not playing in tournaments they will
usually practice on Saturdays. The typical AAU season lasts from early
March until late June or July depending on the dates of the national
tournaments.
Q: I notice on your website some of your teams are
referred to as Division 2 teams. What does this mean and how do they
differ from the other teams?
A: AAU has 2
levels of National Tournaments. Teams attempting to qualify for Division 1
Nationals must qualify through their state tournaments or events referred to as
super-regional tournaments. The teams that compete at Division 1 are
considered the best of the best from across the country. These teams tend
to travel and practice more, which may not be what some families are looking
for. Division 2 nationals, while being one notch below Division 1,
provides excellent competition and teams do not have to qualify. Our
Division 2 teams do not travel as much, and focus more intently on skills
development. These teams are an excellent way for girls to make the
transition from recreational, church, or school teams to competitive teams and
are ideal for those wanting to play competitive basketball but not interested in
extensive travel.
Q: What makes Team Memphis Elite special?
A: The people
in our organization make us who we are. From our dedicated coaches and
board members, to our hard-working and supportive players and parents, there is
an overall commitment to do things the right way. Our organization has had
tremendous success on the court at the local, state, and national levels, but
these accomplishments are not our ultimate goal, but a by-product of the efforts
of these coaches, players, parents, and officers. We truly care about our
girls and their families, and the relationships formed through these teams go
far beyond the basketball court. The experience of playing on an Elite
team is not only very rewarding but a lot of fun.
If I can provide any further information, please
don�t hesitate to contact me at (901) 324-3858 ext. 424 or by email at
dwilliams@teammemphiselite.org.
I hope to meet you during one of our upcoming tryouts or clinics.
Gordon Summerfield
President