2021-2022 Season Changes

Throughout the past year, BNB has had an opportunity to reflect upon the current structure of our age-class system and also evaluate the status of our player and coach development within New Brunswick. We've landed on a number of areas that need to be addressed and have shared a document detailing changes (age-class structure) and member benefits (age specific curriculum and organizational resources) for the upcoming season with our members.

We want to collaborate with our member groups throughout this process. We will be hosting a virtual "town hall" (date TBA) and have also sent out a survey to our members. 
 

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The following information was sent to our Minor Associations/Clubs via email on May 7th.

Summary of Changes to the 2021-2022 Season
May 7, 2021

Throughout the past year, BNB has had an opportunity to reflect upon the current structure of our age-class system and also evaluate the status of our player and coach development within New Brunswick. The details below are a brief summary of what’s to come and we welcome feedback from our members on these topics.

Observations

• Fundamental movement and basketball specific skill deficiencies identified, particularly at the U12 and U14 levels.
• Inconsistency between rules, modifications and program delivery between age groups. 
• Inconsistency in level of coaching qualifications, education and ability to deliver the necessary skills, at the appropriate age in order for athletes to competently continue successful and fun participation in the sport.

 
Areas of Focus

• Improve the competency level of both coaches and athletes across the province.
• Increase capacity to offer coaching education in order to train and certify more coaches. (The focus is not only to be certified but to actually utilize the skills learned)
• Increased resources and support for our member groups.
• Offer a consistent and age appropriate environment for participants to compete within.

 
Changes for 2021-2022 Season

• Provide age specific curriculum to all member groups.
• Provide best practices and program delivery template for all member groups.
• Re-evaluate coaching requirements.
• Age-class realignment
  • U11 – players in grade 4-5 (Will use current U12 rules/modifications)
  • U13 – players in grade 6-7
  • U14 – players in grade 7-8 (Exceptions to grade/birth years dealt with case by case)

 
Additional Comments

• While there are still several operation details to iron out, it’s important to understand the spirit of the changes – increased player development, coach development and system alignment.
• We recognize one size doesn’t fit all for our rural-urban province and are open to feedback from all of our member groups on how these changes will impact your organization.

Missed the email? Contact us at info@basketball.nb.ca