7th / 8th and High School Grade Divisions Overview
The Grade 7_8 and High School Divisions will follow the same philosophy and rules. In both cases players are not permitted to “play up” into the division. Division Philosophy
The programs are built around learning, fun and community. Without the generous volunteers from the community GVBL would cease to exist. There is a large range of ability from a player who is picking up a basketball for the first time to a player who has been playing for a number of years. The goal is to teach all of the players the rules of the game and proper way to play basketball in a fun environment. At this level the only experience that our coaches need is enjoying kids, patience and the desire to see kids improve and show good sportsmanship. Ball size is 29.5 and 10 ft. baskets Division Rules
In addition to all PIAA rules the following guidelines are specific to the Grade 7_8 and High School Divisions. While refereeing you are teaching the players how to play basketball the correct way. At this level infractions should be called consistently similar to what the players will experience as they move from middle school to high school basketball. Specific rules and guidelines for the Grade 7 and 8 and High School Divisions are the following: Game times
It is important that games be kept on time. Adjustments may be required to time provided at half time to ensure games stay on track as well as ensuring substitution times are kept to a minimum The game will be played 5v5 with the game consisting of two twenty minute halves, running clock. In the final two minutes of each half the clock will be stopped on every whistle Full court presses are not permitted except during the last 2 minutes of the first half and the last 4 minutes of the second. All players who are in a uniform will play in the game. All players will be accorded equal playing time. Players should be rotated equally so that all have a chance to play and it is
as close to 50% as possible. All players, irrespective of skill level, deserve a chance to play in all types of circumstances (starting the game, ending the game, playing in overtime etc.). First and foremost this is a recreational league. Excessive amount of time accorded to the “stars” as well as lack of playing time for the less skilled will be monitored by the officials. It is also permissible for the coach who witnesses this to bring it to the attention of the opposing coach and the officials There will be a jump ball to start the game. After this point alternative possession will determine who has possession of the ball starting the second half. Half times will be 3 minutes in length. Two timeouts are provided in each half. There are no carry overs. In the event of a tie overtime will be played following these guidelines: o Three minute overtime. o Full court presses are allowed o Clock will run continually until the 2 minute mark o The clock will be stopped on each whistle during the last 2 minutes. o Jump ball will start each overtime period o Additional 1 time out will be provided during the overtime – no carryovers o If still tied after the first overtime a 3 minute sudden death overtime period will take place o Same rules as for the first overtime session (stop time, 1 additional time out, jump ball to start the session) o First point wins the game o If still tied the game will finish in a tie o During playoffs the game will be played until a winner is determined Personal and team fouls are kept Coaches are not allowed on the court during the game and must stay within their bench area Teams should hustle when substituting All players, irrespective of skill level, deserve a chance to play in all types of circumstances (starting the game, ending the game, playing in overtime etc.). First and foremost this is a recreational league.
Offenses
All offense types are permitted
Defenses
All defenses are permitted during the game. It is encourage to utilize both man to man as well as zone defenses to ensure players are learning both concepts. Individual and team fouls will be kept o Player will foul out after their 5th foul o One on one is shot on the 7th team foul o 2 shots are awarded on the 10th team foul Shooting fouls will be called. During shooting fouls the clock will continue to run (with the exception being the last two minutes of the game). It is important to line up the players quickly so as to keep the game moving. Players must begin and end their foul shots behind the line
Scoring
If there is a blowout coaches should demonstrate good sportsmanship by: o Encouraging their team to pass 5 times before scoring o No half court or full court presses o Encouraging your better players to pass to those that have not scored o Coaches of both teams can choose to agree to waive the stop clock rule during the last 2 minutes of the game Two adults will be positioned at the score table for each game (1 from each team). One will keep fouls the other will run the clock. All concerns of the individuals at the scorer’s table should be directed to the officials. 3 point shots are allowed. Both feet must be behind the line.
Officiating Tips
Refereeing consistency is difficult at this level. Blow the whistle loud and make a definitive call. Have some method by which to ensure you keep alternative possession organized (rubber band on wrist, something in your pocket etc.). Two officials on the floor at all times. Alternative positions – high and low to ensure coverage. Technical Fouls: o Technical Fouls of any sort will not be shot. o The other team will be awarded 2 points plus the ball at half court. o A second technical foul will result in the player/coach/fan having to leave the gym. o Fighting, abusive language, trash talk, taunting and other abusive activities by coaches, players or fans will not be tolerated.
o Anyone violating this rule will be removed from the game and gym. They will also receive a one game suspension (next scheduled game). o A coach can receive a technical foul for poor fan behavior. o Our GVBL Mission is for youth development, both physical and social, and we need to look to our coaches and parents to be proper role models.