Rise Up Basketball

Flexible Scheduling

Spring and summer are busy. Players have other sports, activities, and family plans. Missing a practice or tournament is okay. We work around real life.

Shared Costs

• No flat fees
• Court rentals split among participating families
• Tournaments paid only by those attending

Thoughtful Practices

Skill work and team concepts are blended together and adjusted as players grow. Development is individualized, not generic.

Parent-Run Group

Practices and games are led collaboratively with Oliver Almazan and Mike Bergman as main on-court coaches. This is not a profit model. Everyone shares responsibility and costs.

Season Window

Our spring/summer season generally follows the same timeframe as local basketball clubs. Most teams hold tryouts in late February or early March and begin practices mid to late March. As a rule of thumb, expect Rise Up practices to begin around that same period.

Flexible Start & End

Because we are a cooperative group and not a traditional club, we have flexibility in when practices start and when our final games occur. Our season will likely wrap around June or July, but timing ultimately depends on participation and group interest.

Practice Scheduling

Practice days, times, and locations depend on court availability and family schedules. Once availability is collected, we will coordinate times. Schedules may adjust week to week. Our goal is to identify 2–3 practice days where most players can attend at least two sessions.

Tournaments & Games

We do not set a full tournament schedule in advance. Instead, we evaluate opportunities throughout the season. Events are optional and depend on player availability, interest, and whether we can field a competitive roster.

Participation Model

Players join by invitation or referral rather than tryouts. Costs are shared only among participating players, and commitments are month-to-month. If participation drops or interest slows, we can pause activities rather than continuing unnecessary expenses.

Future Seasons

A fall season may be possible depending on interest and how the spring/summer session goes. We fully support players who also participate with school teams or other clubs, and our goal is to complement those experiences, not compete with them. (unless we meet them on the court!)

Communication & Updates

Schedules, practice plans, and event opportunities will be shared directly with families as they are confirmed. Because plans may change week to week, timely responses help us coordinate courts, teams, and logistics effectively.

Commitment Expectations

We understand players have other sports, school events, and family commitments. We simply ask that families communicate availability honestly and promptly so we can plan practices, tournaments, and costs responsibly for everyone involved.

Monthly Planning

Before each month begins, coaches will create a practice schedule, reserve courts, and pay facility fees upfront so families know the plan in advance.

How Costs Are Calculated

Monthly court costs are divided per player using an estimated 75–80% participation rate of the available roster. This keeps costs predictable while accounting for real-life scheduling conflicts.

Payment Requests

Once court costs are finalized, families will receive a message with the exact amount owed for that month based on each player’s share. We ask that families pay promptly. It will be understood that costs will not be refunded for practices a player cannot attend in a month that has already been paid in advance

Coaches Share Costs Too

Our coaches are parents, not paid staff. We pay the same shared costs as everyone else and cover any shortfall if participation falls below break-even for a given month and in most cases coaches are fronting all costs for court rentals, tournaments fees, and uniforms.

If There’s a Surplus

If participation exceeds expectations and creates extra funds, coaches will first offset any past losses. If none exist, the surplus will be returned to participating families.

Tournaments & Extras

Tournament fees are collected only from players who attend and are split evenly. Any additional expenses, such as uniforms, will always be communicated and collected in advance.

Venmo

Preferred payment method is Venmo, but we can offer other payment methods if needed. Venmo payment information will be shared in future team communication.

Transparency & Accountability

All court fees, tournament costs, and other expenses will be clearly communicated to families. Coaches keep records of payments and expenditures, and decisions about spending or refunds are shared openly to ensure fairness and trust.

Game Playing Time

Coaches make playing time decisions based on game situations, matchups, effort, attitude, and team needs. We compete to win while still making sure all players have opportunities to contribute.

Development Priority

Our goal is long-term player growth. Game minutes are one part of development, but learning the game, improving skills, and building confidence matter just as much.

Practice Inclusion

Every player participates fully in every drill and practice segment. Reps are where players improve most, and everyone receives equal access to training and instruction.

Earned Opportunity

Players get out of the program what they put into it. Effort, focus, coachability, and consistency directly influence growth and opportunities on the court.

Volunteer Coaches

Our coaches are volunteers and parents themselves. They generously give their time, energy, and resources to make this experience possible for every player. We ask that all communication reflects appreciation and respect for their role.

24-Hour Rule

If a concern arises during a game or event, please wait at least 24 hours before reaching out. This allows emotions to settle and helps ensure conversations are constructive and productive.

Appropriate Topics

Parents are always welcome to communicate about schedules, logistics, injuries, or anything that affects their child’s ability to participate. Questions about development are also welcome when approached respectfully and at appropriate times.

Player First Approach

Whenever appropriate, we encourage players to speak with coaches directly about questions or feedback. Learning to communicate respectfully with coaches is an important life skill and part of the development process.

Game Day Boundaries

Game days are for players and coaches. Please avoid discussing playing time, strategy, or coaching decisions before, during, or immediately after games.

Shared Goal

We all want the same thing: a positive experience where players grow, compete, and enjoy the game. When communication stays respectful and solution-focused, everyone benefits.

Response Expectations

Coaches volunteer their time and may not respond immediately. Allow up to 48 hours for a reply on non-urgent matters. This ensures communication remains manageable and focused.

Respectful Tone

All messages should be courteous and professional. Avoid negative assumptions or blaming language. Constructive communication helps coaches make the best decisions for all players.