Youth Winter Basketball League

Youth Winter Basketball League

Registration for the 2027 YMCA Youth Winter Basketball League is officially OPEN. Players of all skill levels can join a team to improve their skills and have fun in a supportive and structured league environment. If you're looking for your child's first organized team experience, these leagues are the perfect place to start.

Register @ Berkeley Register @ Oakland
Basketball on court in foreground with teammates circled up in the background

Leagues & Schedules

We offer 3 Leagues that are COED. Winter League practices and games are held weekly beginning Jan 4 through Mar 13, 2027.

Register @ Berkeley Register @ Oakland
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Developmental- Ages 4-5 (COED)
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Developmental- Ages 4-5 (COED)

The Developmental League is a perfect introduction to basketball for our youngest players. This league combines fun with fundamental skill-building in a supportive environment. Each Saturday, players will engage in a 30-minute practice session followed by a 30-minute game, designed to help them learn the basics like dribbling, passing, and shooting, all while experiencing the excitement of team play. With a focus on fun and encouragement, the Developmental League allows young athletes to build confidence, make friends, and discover a love for the game.

Schedule: Saturdays with a 30-minute practice followed by a 30-minute game. No games / practice on 2/13

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Junior Varsity- Ages 6-7 (COED) 

The Beginner League offers young players an opportunity to advance their skills in a beginner-friendly setting. Coaches focus on fundamentals like dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive basics, while fostering teamwork and sportsmanship. Players will participate in one weeknight practice to hone their skills, and then put those skills to the test in a Saturday game with referees guiding them through the rules. This league is ideal for kids who are new to organized basketball but eager to learn and play.

Schedule: One weeknight practice (Tues, Wed, Thurs, or Fri) 4pm or 5pm, and a Saturday game between 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. No games 2/13.

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Varsity- Ages 8-9 (COED) 

The Varsity League is designed for young athletes who have a bit of experience and are ready to deepen their understanding of the game. With one weeknight practice each week, players will work on key skills like dribbling, shooting form, and team strategy, while learning how to apply these skills in real-game situations. Saturday games provide an officiated, beginner-friendly environment where players can further develop their skills and understanding of basketball rules. Our goal is for each player to grow in skill, confidence, and teamwork.

Schedule: One weeknight practice (Tues, Wed, Thurs, or Fri) at 5pm or 6pm, and a Saturday game between 1:00-3:00 p.m. No games 2/13.

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Select - Ages 10-11 (COED)

The Select League is designed for 4th-5th grade players who are ready to take their basketball skills, confidence, and understanding of the game to the next level. 

Each week, players will participate in one weekday practice focused on developing and refining skills such as ball handling, passing, shooting, defense, footwork, and decision-making. Practices will also introduce more advanced game concepts, helping players understand spacing, offensive movement, defensive positioning, and how to make smart decisions during gameplay. Players will then put these skills into action during Saturday games, giving them the opportunity to compete, gain valuable game experience, and continue developing as well-rounded basketball players.

This league offers a more competitive team environment while continuing to emphasize skill development, teamwork, sportsmanship, and having fun.

Schedule: One weeknight practice (Tues, Wed, Thurs, or Fri) at 5pm or 6pm, and a Saturday game between 3:00-5:00 p.m. No games 2/13.

Note: This league and age group is only offered at the Berkeley Y.

What to Expect

Teams: After tryouts (Ages 6+ only), players are assigned to teams by the League Commissioner (YMCA Staff). During registration you will be asked to provide your child’s school, preferred practice day, and for the names of any friends you’d like to play with. The Commissioner forms teams of no more than 10 players based on the information you provide during registration, and Coach feedback received during tryouts. Our goal is to create balanced teams to ensure a fun, engaging league for all players. 

Coaches: All teams are coached by volunteer coaches who receive training and support from YMCA staff to ensure a safe, positive, and skill-focused experience for every player. All Coaches and staff complete a background check and are mandated reporters.

What's Included: Besides games, practices, and a healthy dose of fun, all players will receive a reversible youth YMCA Jersey, plus an end-of-season team party to celebrate our players and coaches!

Key Dates:

  • Thurs Oct. 1 - Registration Opens
  • Sat Dec. 12 - Coaches Training & League Tryouts (Ages 6+)
  • Fri Dec. 18 - Registration Closes
  • Mon Jan. 4 - First week of practice
  • Sat Jan. 9 - First games 
  • Sat Feb. 13 - Bye Week for Presidents Day Weekend
Questions?

Reach out to Angelo Petrilli

 

Volunteer to Coach!

We’re always looking for enthusiastic volunteer coaches & referees to join our Leagues. As a thank-you, volunteer coaches receive a free YMCA gift and can enjoy priority scheduling, meaning you get to select your child’s practice day to fit your schedule. No previous coaching experience is necessary—just a love for working with kids and supporting their growth!

Let's Go