Ages 6-8 (Coed) | 2025 Winter Youth Basketball League Winter 25 - 26

Information

Channel Islands YMCA

YMCA Youth Basketball Rules 

Ages 6-8

General:

1. There will be four 8-minute running quarters. The game clock will only stop for timeouts, or injuries.
2. There will be a 3-minute half time and 30 seconds for subs between quarters.
3. If at the end of regulation the score is tied, the game will end in a tie.
4. Each team will have one 1-minute timeout per half (timeouts do not carry over). Timeouts may be called by a coach or player on the court when their team has clear possession of the ball or the play is dead (whistle was blown).
5. For the game to be played; a team must field a minimum of 3 players, max of 5 players.
6. There is no free substitution. There will be a quick Referee Time Out at the mid-way mark of each quarter to allow for substitutions.
7. Each player shall play a minimum of two quarters per game (16 minutes) and sit for at least half a quarter (4 minutes). No player shall play the entire game. Exception: Injury or limited number of players (5).
8. Playing time is recorded at the score table during all games.
9. There will be no record of team or individual fouls. Players shall not foul out.

Exception: Referees may sit a player out due to un-sportsman like conduct.

1. There will be no free-throws.
2. Each team is required to have one volunteer report to the referees 10 minutes prior to game time to assist in scorekeeping or timing.
3. At any moment play becomes chaotic or unsafe the referee may instate a 3 second pause period to allow players to get set after each turnover/change of possession.
4. Only one coach standing on sideline and must stay on their designated half of the court.
5. Baskets will be 8’ and a junior size ball (27.5”) will be used.
6. If two opposing players are fighting for possession for a ball, a jump ball will be called immediately.

Offense:

1. The offensive team shall bring the ball into the front court within 10 seconds.
2. There will be no lane violations (3 seconds in the key).
3. There will be no backcourt violations (over and back).
4. The ball must be inbounded within 5 seconds or inbounding team will lose possession.
5. There are no shooting fouls. If a foul is committed during a shot, the ball will be taken out by the offense.
6. If players become bunched up in a group or no progress is made, the officials shall stop play, instruct the players to spread out, and resume play with the team in possession taking the ball out of bounds at the nearest spot.
7. If a violation is committed (i.e. double-dribble) the referee shall pause the game, explain the call and demonstrate proper form the first time. The play will resume with the offensive team taking the ball out of bounds at the nearest spot.

Defense:

1. Defense shall be played inside the 3-point line. (ie no press beyond the 3 point arc)
2. A defensive player may not break the plane of the 3-point arc.
3. Reach-in steals are permitted within the 3-point arc; if the game is within 10 points. Players may take the ball if the player clearly lost control/possession of the ball.
4. Pass interceptions are legal.
5. Defensive players must defend with arms straight up when opposing player is shooting.

General Information:

Reversible Jersey needs to be purchased separately for $13 from Apparel Ordering with Augusta Sportswear.  If you have a jersey from last season, you don’t need to purchase a new jersey.

Practices:

Coaches will determine their teams’ practice times based on their availability. (Teams will practice at the Santa Barbara Family YMCA during the week).

Games: Games will be played on Saturdays. The younger divisions will play at Santa Barbara with an occasional game at Montecito YMCA.

Important Dates:

Picture Day – January 31^st.

Season Ends –Saturday, March 7th

Make up Day – In the event of a game cancellation due to unexpected circumstances, we may hold a make-up game.

FAQ’s

Where will practices be held?

Primarily practices are scheduled at the Santa Barbara YMCA.

When are games played?

Games for younger divisions will be played at the Santa Barbara Family YMCA on Saturdays.

Do I need to be a member for my child to participate?

No, our league is open to any child; members and non-members alike. However, we will need to ensure that you have a waiver on file. Please be prepared to fill one out if you are not a member.

Does my child need prior basketball experience to play?

No, our league is for both beginners and skilled athletes.

Does my child receive a jersey for the program?

You will need to purchase a reversible jersey for $13 from Augusta Sportswear. This way you get the exact size shirt you want. If you have a basketball jersey from last season, you do not need to purchase a new jersey this season.

What time is my child’s game at?

Schedules will be posted on YGametime. Sign-up for YGAMETIME to access league schedules.

Can I coach a team?

Yes, to make this league possible, we need parents and volunteers to dedicate their time to creating a fun experience for everyone. All we ask is your willingness to coach, no prior experience is necessary. Please contact Gus rendon if interested in coaching, or volunteering in another capacity. (Fingerprinting, volunteer paperwork, concussion & child abuse prevention training required for new coaches.) All training is provided by the YMCA.

What shoes does my child need?

Any non-marking athletic shoes.

For more information

For Santa Barbra, please contact Sb.sports@cimyca

For Montecito, please contact [email protected]

THANK YOU!