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Basketball

Some School Districts Lack Girls' Basketball Programs This Season

2024-12-11

In recent years, a significant 6% rise in the number of children participating in team sports has been observed. This upward trend might be attributed to Caitlin Clark's success. However, not all school districts across the state are experiencing the same growth. In fact, three school districts have no girls' basketball programs, and four only have JV teams this season. Gary Ross, the Associate Director and Girls Basketball Administrator for the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union, is actively working with schools. He emphasizes the need to gather data and form a task force to identify the reasons behind the disparities and find solutions. "We're going to collect information from our schools and have a task force look at what actions can be taken at the state level and locally," Ross said. One change that has already been implemented is allowing players to play 21 games at each level instead of just six quarters a night. Ross explained, "Previously, if a girl was on the JV team, she might only play two quarters because they wanted to reserve her for the varsity game in case of foul trouble. But often, the player didn't get into foul trouble, and as a result, she didn't get enough playing time."

Impact on Player Development

Although the numbers aren't all positive, Ross pointed out that some schools have enough players for a varsity team. By fielding a JV team, players can build up their success by playing against others at their own level. Dale Emerson, the Marion YMCA Branch Executive Director, noted that the numbers for girls' youth basketball at the YMCA have been on the rise. "We hope that the consistent increase we're seeing at the youth level will translate into the high school level as well," he said. Emerson believes that getting young athletes involved at an early age helps them discover a skill set. He emphasized that it's not just about the sport; it's about creating a love for the game that can last through high school and beyond. "The younger they start, the more likely they are to find a passion for the game. It gets them active and teaches them important values," Emerson said.

The Importance of Skill Development

Ross further stressed the significance of learning these skills to keep kids engaged in team sports. "Developing a positive culture and creating an interest in younger kids to be part of their high school program is crucial. They need to feel appreciated and valued," he said. By providing opportunities for growth and success at different levels, schools can foster a love for team sports that lasts a lifetime. This not only benefits the individual players but also contributes to the overall development of the sport at the high school level. As the data shows, there is potential for growth and improvement, and with the right strategies and support, more children can be encouraged to participate in team sports and enjoy the benefits they bring.