RAYBA TRAVEL PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Rogers Area Youth Basketball Association (RAYBA) Traveling Program focuses on the more competitive 3rd- 8th grade student athletes, who make a larger commitment of time and effort. Traveling teams are formed through an evaluation process that creates two teams (3rd grade only one team, 4th grade might have one or two teams), which are tiered to form a “A” and “B” team. If there are both a sufficient number of interested players and talent, a third tier, or “C” team, may be added. The RAYBA traveling season begins in mid October, and runs through the MYAS state tournaments in March. Traveling teams typically practice twice weekly, and will play in approximately 9 to 12 weekend tournaments over the course of the season.
TIME COMMITMENT
Inherent to the success of the RAYBA Traveling Program is the level of dedication and commitment of the participants. Participation in the RAYBA Traveling Program DOES REQUIRE A GREATER LEVEL OF COMMITMENT than RAYBA House League basketball. We strongly recommend that both parents and potential players consider their schedules and conflicts before trying out for traveling basketball. If players and parents have a clear idea of the level of obligation the Traveling Program demands, and are able to plan ahead to meet those obligations, it alleviates the stress caused to both the player and the team when a player misses practices, games or even tournaments. Please keep in mind that attendance at practice is as important as tournament games. Participation in another non-school traveling program during the season should be secondary to Travel Basketball.
| Travel Program | House Program | |
|---|---|---|
| Game Locations | Most tournaments are held within the metro area. There might be one or two out of metro tournaments. | All games held at a School District 728 school (e.g., Rogers Middle, Hassan Elementary, etc.) |
| Season Length | 5 month season (mid-October through mid-March) | 3.5 month season (Mid-November through February) |
| Games/Tournaments | 9 or more weekend tournaments (Friday thru Sunday) | 8 games per season |
| Practice Time | Practice 3 to 4 hours per week | Practice 1 to 1.5 hours per week |
| Play time | Play time may NOT be equal | Equal playing time |
| Uniforms | Uniform expense is approximately $70 to $85. | Reversible jersey and shorts included in fee. |
| Competition Level | Competitive level - play to win while continuing to develop team and player skills. | Emphasis is on skill development. |
| Parent Volunteer Requirements | Mandatory Volunteer Requirements - $300 refundable deposit. | Volunteer time requested at year-end tournament. |
| Additional Expenses | Warm-ups, tournament gate fees and one to two out of town tournaments. | Registration is all inclusive |