Ages 8- 10 (Girls) | 2025 Winter Youth Basketball League Winter 25 - 26

Information

Channel Islands YMCA

YMCA Youth Basketball Rules.

Ages 8-10

 General:

1. There will be four 8-minute running quarters. The game clock will only stop for

timeouts and injuries. Stop-clock in the last two minutes of the 4th quarter with a

less than 10-point margin.

2. There will be a 3-minute half time and a 30-second break between quarters for

substitutions.

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. 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.

6. Each player shall play a minimum of two quarters per game (16 minutes) and sit for

at least a half of a quarter (4 minutes). No player shall play the entire game.

Exception: Injury or limited number of players (5).

7. Playing time is recorded at the score table during all games.
8. Team fouls shall be recorded, but no player shall foul out. However, AFTER the 6th

team foul, any subsequent foul will result in one point (see shooting foul rule below).

Team fouls reset at the half.

9. Each team is required to have one volunteer report to the referees 10 minutes prior

to game time to assist in scorekeeping or timing.

10.Coaches must stay on their designated half of the court.

11. For the game to be played; a team must field a minimum of 3 players, max of 5

players.

12. Baskets will be 9’ and an intermediate size ball (28.5”) will be used.
13. Jump ball or visitors with the ball will start the game. Possession will alternate with

every jump ball

14. 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 a 5-second lane violation.
3. Backcourt violations will be called (over and back—second blue line).
4. The ball must be inbounded within 5 seconds or inbounding team will lose

possession.

5. If a player stops his/her dribble and does not pass within 5 seconds a jump ball will

be called.

6. Shooting Fouls – Shooting fouls will result in 1 point. In an effort to promote game[1]flow and maximize playing time. 1 point will be awarded on a shooting foul OR Free

throws will result in the case of a shooting foul. All players may enter the key once

the ball has made contact with the rim. If no contact is made, the play is dead and

ball turned over to the opposing team.

7. AFTER the 6th team foul in a half 1 point will be awarded on a foul or a one-one free

throw.

7a. If a violation is committed (i.e. double-dribble) the referee shall pause the game and

explain the call. Possession will be transferred to the opposition.

Defense:

1. Defense shall begin at the half-court line (ie no full court press).
2. Steals are permitted.
3. 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.

Games: Games will be played on Saturdays, at the Santa Barbara YMCA

Important Dates:

Picture Day – January 31^st 2026

Season Ends – Saturday, March 7, 2026

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?

Practices are scheduled at the Santa Barbara YMCA.

When are games played?

Games will be played at the Santa Barbara YMCA

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. We will send out an email once the schedules are posted. Sign-up for YGAMETIME to access league schedules.

Are there practices? Yes, coaches will schedule one practice between Monday – Friday 3-8pm.

Please note any days you cannot practice on the registration form. We can’t guarantee to accommodate your requests, but we will try. Practice is scheduled based on the coach’s availability.

Can I coach a team?

Yes, to make this league possible, we need parents and volunteers to dedicate their time to create 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. (No crocs, sandals, or boots)

Is there financial assistance?

Yes, applications must be turned in no later than December 1.

For more information

For Santa Barbara YMCA, please contact [email protected]

For Montecito YMCA, please contact [email protected]

THANK YOU!