Basketball was created in Springfield, MA in 1891 by James Naismith. He wanted to create a new game that could be played inside at the YMCA Training School. Since then basketball has grown into one of the most popular sports in the world. Due to its popularity there are several youth programs offered for a variety of ages and skill levels here in Des Moines.
Wins
Basketball is a team sport that provides a high energy work out with non-stop movement on the court. Parents often think that tall kids are a slam dunk for basketball, but smaller kids may be quicker, more agile and more coordinated. The sport also offers opportunities for both boys and girls to be stand-out athletes.
Losses
Just like any other high impact sport, basketball players have their fair share of sprains and strains. Because only five players can be on the court at once, kids might spend a fair amount of time warming the bench if the coach is lax about rotating.
Best For
Basketball is great for kids with high energy and endurance. If you child is always bouncing a ball, tossing their trash into the bin from several feet away and is happy to be part of a team then basketball may be for them.
Time Commitment
Recreation League: Generally practice once or twice a week for an hour or so and have one game per week.
Competitive League: May practice several times a week and sometimes will occasionally participate in weekend long tournaments you may need to travel to.
Gear
- Basketball
- Practice Clothes
- Basketball Shoes
- T-Shirt, Jersey or Uniform
Cost
- Basketball: $15+
- Practice Clothes: 10+
- Basketball Shoes: $25+
- T-Shirt, Jersey or Uniform: $10+ (may be included with registration)
- Registration: All ages – start at $50.00
Competitive:
- Club Fees: $50+/year
- Tournament Entrance Fees: $500 per team
- Travel Expenses: $100-$500 average per event
Fees vary according to what is provided by the organizing entity. Please keep in mind some registration fees are one time, others are monthly. All costs are approximate. As with any activity, as your child progresses, only your family can choose what you will spend in relation to your child’s specific goals within the sport whether competitively or recreationally.
Leagues
There are several basketball leagues scattered across the metro. A handful are listed below. Schools and Parks and Recreation Departments also offer opportunities to play basketball.
Altoona Campus Youth Basketball Program – Altoona
Ankeny Centennial Basketball Club – Ankeny
Boys & Girls Basketball Leagues Clive Parks & Rec – Clive
Kingdom Hoops – Des Moines
Grimes Basketball League – Grimes
Indianola Basketball Association – Indianola
Johnston Basketball Club – Johnston
Team J-Hawk Basketball – Urbandale
Sportsplex West – Waukee
Upward Sports – West Des Moines
What do you think, is basketball a fit for your kid?
