Commonly Asked Questions
Some call this a "feeder" program - what is a "feeder" program?
Feeder programs limit participation to players that will attend a specific high school. The Monroe Select Boys
Basketball team is for players who live in the Monroe High School attendance area. The word "feeder" outlines the intended
players of the program.
How does this differ from an "AAU" program?
The biggest difference is that AAU programs have no geographic limits on where they source their players. The
Monroe Bearcat Select program focuses on developing players who intend to play at Monroe High School. We provide a
highly competitive basketball experience and preparation for high school basketball. In addition, AAU teams typically
play in the spring/summer.
How does this differ from a recreational program like YMCA or Boys & Girls Club?
Recreational programs typically do not have tryouts, tend to offer fewer practices, trainings and games with varying
levels of coaching. Recreational programs will also tend to have a lower level of competition and typically players get equal
amounts of playing time. The great news is we partner with both of those programs to provide basketball camps, trainings and
basketball teams for all levels of players in Monroe!
Who is eligible to play?
Boys in grades 4th - 8th that attend schools in the Monroe school district.
What teams/ages/grades do you offer?
Boys’ who are in the 4th - 8th grade level.
If you have a daughter interested we do have a girls select program - you can find information at:
monroeselectgirlsbasketball.com
When are tryouts?
Tryouts for the boy’s program will be in late September.
What do I need to do to have my child be eligible for tryouts?
You need to register your child through the Monroe website when the link becomes available.
In addition, 1 guardian shall come to tryouts and sign a waiver.
Do you allow parents to coach? Who are the coaches?
Our priority is to find quality coaches that can coach the game and be positive role models. If a person fits those
qualifications and happens to be a parent, we are open to having them coach. The players will meet their grade level
coach at tryouts. We are always looking for people that are interested in coaching, and each year we send out
coaching applications that are thoroughly vetted and considered.
How many players are on each team?
Rosters typically have 8-10 players
How will the team be determined?
During assessments we fit players with the correct level of competition and team, players will have the opportunity to
demonstrate their skill with ball handling, shooting, passing, listening, teamwork, leadership, fitness, speed/agility, and
basketball game play. We also consider team makeup and player fit with the team and organization. Multiple
assessors will evaluator during tryouts and decisions will be based off a collaborative effort between all the assessors.
How much does it cost?
$700 player fee for the 2026-2027 Season.
Player fees includes up to 3 tournaments, along with the WESCO tournament and WA State Championship
Tournament (if a team qualifies). It also covers all of the program costs: gym rentals, game day rentals, league fees,
referee costs, equipment and program administrative fees along with Jerseys and a shooting shirt.
First payment (1/2) is due on October 15.
The remaining balance is due November 15.
Are players guaranteed playing time? Is playing time equal?
Playing time is earned based on each player's effort, attention, commitment, and ability displayed in practice and in
games. Players with the best ability to combine these skills will receive the greatest amount of playing time. Playing
time is at the discretion of the coach.
Can my 2nd or 3rd grader play for the 4th grade team? Do you allow players to play up?
We do not allow a 2nd grader to play for the 4th grade boys’ team and would direct that player to look at either joining
a YMCA or Boys and Girls club team. If there is a need for more players, the coach can make the decision to allow a
3rd grade player to play on the 4th grade team. Once players reach grade 4 they will play with their grade level. Since
this is a feeder program, it is important to foster the development of each grade level group of players.
When is the season? Where do you practice? How many games do you play?
The season runs from October through March. Teams will practice twice or three times a week (up to the coaches
discretion) and play in leagues and tournaments. Each team will play roughly 30 games against other feeder and AAU
teams. The season concludes with the state tournament in Spokane, for qualifying teams. Travel is a possibility and
would be an additional cost for each family.
Who do I contact if I have additional questions?
Please send an email to monroeselectbball@gmail.com for any question or concerns and the Program Director will get back to
you.
