About URA Basketball

URA Basketball is a recreational program open to all boys and girls in grades K-12. Our focus is on fun, skill development, and teamwork—everyone makes a team, and no one gets cut!

Season & Schedule
Registration typically opens in August, with the season kicking off in late November, right after Thanksgiving. Games begin the first weekend after Thanksgiving and run through mid-March, weather permitting. We observe all school holidays and breaks.

Teams are organized by school grade in the fall, with a commitment of one game per week and one practice per week.

Divisions & Game Structure
Dependent on registration numbers, we typically have the following divisions.

• Co-Ed K, Pre-1st, 1st – Games on Saturdays only, no weekday commitment
• Boys 2-3 & Girls 2-3 – Games on Saturdays, 1 practice per week
• Boys 4-5 & Girls 4-5 – Games on Saturdays, 1 practice per week
• Boys 6-7 & Girls 6-7 – Games on Saturdays, 1 practice per week
• Boys 8-9 – Games on Sundays, 1 practice per week
• Girls 8-12 – Games on Sundays, no practices
• Boys 10-12 – Games on Sundays, no practices
  

Referees & Game Development
Our youngest divisions (Co-Ed and 2nd-3rd grade) are officiated by trained youth referees who focus on both calling the game and helping players understand the rules. Older divisions are officiated by PIAA-certified referees—the same officials who oversee high school and college games.

Important Rule: Zone Defense Not Permitted – Player-to-Player Defense Only

Teaching strong fundamentals is our top priority—starting with how we play defense. As such, zone defense is not permitted in any division. All teams are required to play player-to-player defense (also known as man-to-man defense).

This is a league rule, not a coaching preference or suggestion.

Why player-to-player defense?

• Builds strong defensive habits: Learning to guard a player—rather than an area—teaches accountability, movement, and on-ball pressure. These are the core building blocks of good defense.
• Improves overall basketball IQ: Defending one-on-one helps players develop better court awareness, communication, and positioning—skills that translate across every aspect of the game.
• Prepares athletes for the next level: Middle school and high school teams use player-to-player defense, so learning it now helps kids build the right skills from the start.
• Promotes individual growth: Every player has the opportunity to engage defensively, rather than “hiding” in a zone. This encourages effort, focus, and confidence on both ends of the court.

We appreciate the commitment of our coaches, players, and families to upholding this rule. It ensures every child is developing the skills they need to grow as athletes and teammates.

Playing Time

At URA Basketball, we are committed to ensuring equal playing time for all players. To support this, each division follows specific substitution guidelines to promote fairness and player development.

Substitution Rules

1. Minimum Playing Time – Each player must play at least two (2) full quarters (or the time equivalent).
2. Required Rest – Each player must sit out at least one (1) full quarter (unless the team has six or fewer players).
3. No Full-Game Players – No player should play all four quarters (in part or in whole) until everyone has played at least three full quarters—unless injuries require otherwise.
4. Time Equivalents – If a quarter is 10 minutes long, each player must play at least 20 total minutes.
   

Playing Time Scenarios

To clarify how playing time is distributed, here’s a guide based on the number of players available for a game:

• 6 players → All players must play at least 3 full quarters, with only one player sitting out per quarter.
• 7 players → 6 players will play 3 quarters, and 1 player will play 2 quarters.
• 8 players → 5 players will play 3 quarters, and 3 players will play 2 quarters.
• 9 players → 4 players will play 3 quarters, and 5 players will play 2 quarters.
• 10 players → Every player will play exactly 2 quarters.

Important Note: Teams are limited to a maximum of 10 players per game. We strive to create rosters that ensure ample substitutes while maximizing playing time for everyone.

By enforcing these guidelines, we ensure that all players gain valuable experience, grow their skills, and enjoy their time on the court.

If you need to cancel your registration, the URA Basketball refund policy is as follows:

• During the Registration Period: Refunds requested during this period will be subject to a $20 processing fee per player. The $3 service charge is non-refundable. Refund requests made after registration closes, will NOT be honored.

• Medical Exceptions: A full refund will be provided if a child is medically unable to participate, provided the request is made before THE FIRST PRACTICE, and is accompanied by a doctor’s note. The $3 service charge remains non-refundable. No refunds will be processed after this date, as games will have begun.

• High School Players: If you make the high school team and are unable to participate in URA, a full refund will be honored. The $3 service charge remains non-refundable.