Travel Basketball

Our programs are designed to provide Hastings area youth an opportunity to play organized basketball in a positive and motivational environment. We do this by providing learning and development opportunities at a competitive pace. Participants will develop basketball skills, leadership abilities, and self-confidence. They will learn how to successfully interact with others to achieve a common objective. We hope all participants develop a pure joy of the game and learn the value of basketball as a lifetime fitness activity.

** Please read through all the information below before registering. **

Who: Boys & Girls 3rd - 8th grade (2026/2027 school year)

What: Approximately 2 weekday practices per week with tournaments on the weekends.

• 3rd Grade: 5 MYBA + 2 MYAS tournaments
• 4th Grade: 5 tournaments
• 5th Grade: 7 tournaments
• 6th Grade: 7 tournaments
• 7th Grade: 9 tournaments
• 8th Grade: 9 tournaments

When: Mid-October through early-March

• Player assessments - 9/20 and 9/22
• Practice begins - week of October 19th

Practice Locations: Hastings High School, Hastings Middle School, and McAuliffe Elementary School. Practice schedules, including dates, times, and locations, will be announced closer to the start of the basketball season after teams have been finalized.

Tournament Locations: Most tournaments are held throughout the Twin Cities metro area, typically within a one-hour drive of Hastings.

Team Formation: Player assessments will be held on 9/20 and 9/22. Please plan to attend both sessions, as assessments are used to evaluate players and place them on teams with others of similar skill levels.

Cost:

3rd Grade: $250

4th Grade: $300

5th Grade: $400

6th Grade: $400

7th Grade: $500

8th Grade: $500

Financial Assistance: Families in need of financial assistance are encouraged to complete the Financial Assistance Application before registering. A limited number of scholarships are available to help offset registration fees. Financial Assistance is granted season-by-season on a case-by-case basis. Submit application by 8/16/26. Applications will be reviewed, and applicants will be notified of their eligibility status by 8/23/26.

Note: Financial assistance does not cover the following:

• DIBs hours or DIBs buyout fees
• Uniform costs
• Replacement of lost or damaged practice jersey

Volunteer Requirements: Each family is required to complete 12 DIBS hours during the season or choose the $300 DIBs buyout option. DIBs requirements are waived for one head coach per team, two assistant coaches per team, and HBB Board members. If the DIBs hours are not completed, your account will be charged $300 at the end of the season.

Game Uniforms: To help keep costs down, traveling team uniforms are typically used for 2-3 seasons. The uniform design will not change this season.

• A complete uniform set costs approximately $100.
• New players - required to purchase a game uniform.
• Returning players - purchase if need a new size or replacement.
• Uniform ordering information - posted soon.
• Uniform try-on event - Held in September
• Game uniforms are yours to keep.

Practice Jerseys: HBB will provide each player with a practice jersey for use during the season.

• Practice jerseys must be returned at the end of the season.
• A $50 replacement fee will be charged for practice jerseys that are damaged beyond normal wear or not returned.

What Does a Typical Practice Look Like?

Most team practices are 90 minutes long. Grades 3-5 typically practice from 6:00-7:30 p.m., while grades 6-8 typically practice from 7:30-9:00 p.m. Practices are designed to help players develop their skills in a positive, engaging environment and include warm-ups, skill development drills, offensive and defensive concepts, team plays, scrimmages, game situations, and plenty of opportunities to have fun while learning the game.

What Does a Typical Tournament Look Like?

Most tournaments are held within an hour driving distance of Hastings and include three games played on either Saturday or Sunday. Occasionally, tournaments may span both days. Most tournaments do not charge an admission fee for spectators. The Grade State Tournament is the exception and typically charges admission while taking place over both Saturday and Sunday.

Is My Child Ready for Travel Basketball?

Every player develops at their own pace, and readiness can look different for each child. Travel basketball may be a good fit if your child enjoys playing basketball, wants to improve, and is comfortable in a team environment, looking for a higher level of competition than recreational basketball. Many of our young players begin with little to no basketball experience. The focus is on growth, confidence, and skill development in a positive and supportive environment. If you are unsure, please reach out to a board member for guidance on placement based on skill and experience.

Questions: Hastingsbasketballboard@gmail.com

What If My Child Decides Not to Play?

Registration fees are fully refundable until teams are formed. Once team rosters have been finalized, registration fees are non-refundable.

What Should My Child Bring to Practice?

Please have your player bring:

• Shorts
• Practice jersey
• Water bottle
• Clean athletic shoes
• Basketball (correct size for their grade level)

What Size Basketball Should I Purchase?

• Grades 3-4 (Boys & Girls): 27.5"
• Grades 5-8 (Girls): 28.5"
• Grades 5-6 (Boys): 28.5"
• Grades 7-8 (Boys): 29.5"

What if I am in interested in coaching/assistant coaching or joining the Hastings Basketball Board?

We are always looking for individuals who are passionate about coaching and supporting Hastings Basketball. If you are interested in coaching or joining the Hastings Basketball Board, please complete the interest form below, and a board member will be in touch with you to discuss opportunities.