
PRogram Placement FAQ
Welcome to The PREP PROGRAM! Designed especially for aspiring young athletes hungry for the thrill of competition and sports excellence, Flight Basketball proudly presents its competitive arm – The Prep Program, focused on elevating athletes to the next level. With two exhilarating tiers, Junior Varsity and Varsity, here's what sets us apart:
Junior Varsity Prep (Grades 4 to 8): Get ready for a journey of growth and achievement as athletes compete locally from September to February. Our expert coaches provide top-notch training, nurturing skills and teamwork while instilling invaluable sportsmanship qualities.
Varsity Prep (Grades 9 to 12): Leap into an exciting realm of local and mainland competitions from September to November. Our experienced coaches continue to mentor and guide your athlete with a shorter season designed to harmonize with high school programs without overwhelming their athletic schedule.
Both tiers prioritize regular, high-quality training to foster talent development. But the true exhilaration comes from the opportunity to compete against the best in the field, giving your athlete the chance to shine and flourish.
Join us in sculpting the future of your young athlete by enrolling them in our Prep Program, where dedication meets competition and champions emerge. Don't miss this extraordinary chance to set your child on an unwavering pursuit of excellence!
The journey begins with our Program Placement Camp! For more information and answers, visit the Flight Prep FAQ page. This camp is your athlete's gateway to the Fall/Winter season (September to February). Our Flight Academy coaches will evaluate participants and direct them toward the appropriate path. Selected athletes will receive invitations to join the elite Flight Prep Program, while others will be guided to the Skills Academy. We encourage everyone to attend the program placement camps, a unique opportunity to train with the best. Flight Prep teams will train 2 to 3 times a week, competing in local leagues and tournaments. They'll also host and attend competitive events in BC and the USA (when possible). The placement camp spans two days, and after the sessions, our Program Director will extend invitations to join the Prep Program. Your athlete's journey to greatness begins here!
Placement Camp Schedule - Saturday and Sunday, September 9th and 10th
Saturday, Sep 9
1 pm-2:30 pm Girls Grades 4/5 and 6/7
2:30-4:00 pm Girls Grades 8 and 9
4:00-5:30 pm Girls Grades 10 and 11/12
5:30-7:00 pm Boys Grades 4/5 and 6/7
7:00-8:30 pm Boys Grades 8 and 9
8:30-10:00 pm Boys Grades 10 and 11/12
Sunday, Sept 10
9 am-10:30 am Girls Grades 4/5 and 6/7
10:30-12:00 pm Girls Grades 8 and 9
12:00-1:30 pm Girls Grades 10 and 11/12
1:30-3:00 pm Boys Grades 4/5 and 6/7
3:00-4:30 pm Boys Grades 8 and 9
4:30-6:00 pm Boys Grades 10 and 11/12
Disclaimer
Families must discuss before Program Placement Camp regarding commitment to the prep program. Athletes and their families who have tried out and accepted an offer to the Flight Prep Program are advised against tryouts for other clubs as we seek committed athletes and will not be permitted to play for other clubs while on a Flight Team.
Season Duration
Grade 4 to 8- September to February
Grade 9 to 12- September to December
*Please note that athletes are committing for the entire program duration. Due to gyms/tournaments needing to be booked beforehand, fees are associated with full-season participation.
When Are the Practices/GAMES?
The practices are not set in stone yet, but traditionally, the girls' teams will practice/play on Monday/Wednesday/Friday while the boys' team traditionally practices Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. These may change
How much does it cost?
The program's cost this upcoming season will be different from most. Since we cannot project the price, we will have a base amount (gym rentals, uniforms, insurance, coaching fees), and then we will add any amount associated with what each team does. The cost per team will differ since different Teams will be playing different schedules.
How many tournaments?
The fall season does not currently consist of tournaments as teams will be competing in their respective leagues and playoffs.
I am already in the prep program. Does that mean I am automatically in?
No. Not even close. Everyone has to try out again for spots for the upcoming season.
How many teams?
The number of teams depends on the number of athletes that attend the tryouts and the level of play. We are aiming for :
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1 team for U/11
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1 team for U/12
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1 team for U/13
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1 team for U/14
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1 team for U/15
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1 team for U/16
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1 team for U/17
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1 Team for U/18
The teams are offered for both girls and boys (e.g., One U/11 boys' team and one U/11 Girls' team). The number of teams may change due to the level of skills and experience that come to participate.
We will not run that team if we feel that we cannot field a COMPETITIVE TEAM at any level. The Prep schedule is intense and is made for the competitive athlete.
How many athletes per team?
The maximum is 12 athletes per team, and the minimum is 10. Team numbers are based on coaches'/director's decisions.
What if I do not make the team?
That is okay. The teams are based on each athlete's current level of playing skills. This changes over time, which is why we have our prep team tryouts every four months. If you do not make the team, we highly recommend the Skills Academy and Flight League offered on Saturdays. Prep team players are also highly encouraged to sign up for the Skills Academy and Leagues.
What if I cannot attend the placement camp but am highly interested in joining?
Please notify us that you cannot attend but still sign up for the placement camp, as it is a way for us to know that you want to be included in the selection. The camp is two days long. We urge athletes to attend both days if they cannot contact us immediately.
Should everyone come to the program placement camp?
We encourage everyone within the correct age bracket to attend the program placement camp. We say this because it is still a solid three hours of basketball split into two days, regardless of skill. It is a beautiful learning experience and a chance to learn and grow in a pressure setting.
Are there programs in place to subsidize costs?
Yes, they are. Flight is a Family, and as a family, we want to ensure that each member can play. We have worked with families before and devised solutions that allow their athletes to continue playing. We do this through sponsorships, subsidies, fee waivers etc. We want to help each family as much as we can.
Sponsorship?
We have had many sponsors throughout the years. There are multiple sponsorship packages available. If you are a business owner and would like to discuss sponsorship opportunities with Flight, please email us at Info@Flightbasketball.ca. Our partnerships ensure the success of the athlete's training and competition. Currently, Nike (yes, NIKE) is our primary sponsor.
I am interested in COaching/helping out.
We are always looking for fresh new coaches. Please do not hesitate to contact us to express your interest in coaching and helping with the program. Info@Flightbasketball.ca.
If you have more questions, please do not hesitate to email us at Info@Flightbasketball.ca.