Frequently Asked Questions

How are teams formed?

Our goal is to place every player on the team where they will have the greatest opportunity for long-term growth. Team placement is based on much more than talent alone. Coaches evaluate basketball fundamentals, basketball IQ, athleticism, competitiveness, coachability, work ethic, attitude, leadership, positional needs, team chemistry, and family commitment. We believe players develop best when they are appropriately challenged and given meaningful opportunities to contribute.

Are teams ranked Gold, Silver, or Bronze?

No. At ProSkills, we don't define teams by Gold, Silver, or Bronze. Instead, we place each team in the tournament divisions that provide the best opportunity for development. As teams improve throughout the season, tournament divisions may change to ensure players continue to be challenged at the appropriate level.

Can my child move to a different team during the season?

Possibly, but roster changes are uncommon. Coaches continually evaluate player growth and team needs throughout the season. If a change would better support a player's development or improve the overall program, roster adjustments may be made. Our priority is always placing players in the environment where they can develop most successfully.

How often do teams change?

Teams are formed each season through the tryout process. During the season, rosters typically remain stable, although adjustments may occasionally be made when they are in the best interest of player development or the team.

What if my child doesn't make a tournament team?

Not every player's journey looks the same, and development happens at different rates. Depending on the age group, players may be offered a Practice Player position, allowing them to train with the team, receive the same coaching, and be invited to tournaments when roster spots become available. We also offer Train & Play Clinics and the ProSkills 3v3 League, which are outstanding development pathways for players preparing for future tournament opportunities.

What is a Practice Player?

Practice Players attend team practices, receive the same instruction and coaching as rostered players, and may be invited to tournaments when additional players are needed or roster openings become available. This pathway allows athletes to continue developing within the ProSkills system while working toward earning a full tournament roster spot.

How many players are on a team?

Roster sizes vary by age group, but we intentionally keep them manageable to maximize development, practice repetitions, and meaningful playing opportunities. Tournament teams typically have 8-10 fully committed players on a roster.

Will my child always play with the same teammates?

Not necessarily. As players develop, teams may be adjusted from season to season to provide the best developmental environment. Our focus is always on helping every athlete continue progressing rather than keeping the same roster together year after year.

What if my child is new to basketball?

We have a program for every stage of development. Newer players often begin in Train & Play Clinics, where they build confidence and fundamentals. As they develop, many progress to the ProSkills 3v3 League, then into our Competitive Tournament Teams when they're ready for the commitment and competition.

What should my child bring to practice?

Players should bring:

• A basketball
• A full water bottle
• Basketball shoes
• Comfortable athletic clothing
• A positive attitude and championship effort

Where are practices held?

Practice locations vary depending on your child's program and team. Most ProSkills practices are held at our South Bay partner facilities, including:

• Vistamar School – Competitive Travel Team practices
• Bay Club El Segundo – Train & Play Clinics, elementary programs, and select team practices
• Aviation Gym – Select clinics and team practices
• American Martyrs Gym- 3v3 League Games

Players will receive their assigned practice location, day, and time when team placements are announced or upon registration for a program. Any schedule or location changes will be communicated through your coach and the ProSkills communication platform.

When should my child arrive?

Players should arrive 10 minutes before practice so they have time to check in, get their shoes tied, fill water bottles, and be ready to begin on time. Being early helps players prepare mentally and shows respect for their teammates and coaches.

What if we're running late?

Please notify your coach as soon as possible. We understand that traffic and unexpected situations happen, but arriving on time is an important part of being a good teammate.

What if my child has to miss practice?

Please let your coach know as early as possible. Consistent practice attendance is one of the most important factors in player development and team success. Missing practice occasionally is understandable, but frequent absences may impact a player's development and, for tournament teams, their playing time.

Can my child practice with another team?

Probably not. Teams build chemistry by practicing together consistently. If it's a one-time scheduling conflict, we'll do our best to accommodate when appropriate, but players should regularly practice with their assigned team.

Can parents watch practice?

Yes. Parents are welcome to observe practices, but we ask that you do so quietly and allow coaches to coach. Please avoid giving instruction from the sidelines before, during, or after practice so players receive one clear message.

Can siblings practice together?

Generally, no. Players practice with their assigned age group and team so coaches can teach age-appropriate skills and team concepts. 

How are practices structured?

Every practice is planned with purpose. Players can expect a combination of skill development, basketball IQ, competitive drills, team concepts, and live play. We believe that championships are won at practice—games simply reveal the habits built throughout the week.

Who plays in tournaments?

Our Boys Competitive Tournament Teams and ProSkills Stars (Girls) Tournament Teams participate in weekend tournaments throughout the season.

Tournament basketball provides players the opportunity to apply what they've learned in practice, compete against quality opponents, and continue developing in a challenging game environment. Teams typically compete in one tournament in September, followed by approximately two tournaments per month for the remainder of the season.

Our Train & Play Clinics and ProSkills 3v3 League do not participate in weekend travel tournaments. These programs provide flexible development opportunities without the travel team commitment, making them an excellent option for newer players, multi-sport athletes, and families looking for a lighter schedule.

How many tournaments do travel teams play?

Tournament teams typically play:

• One tournament in September
• Approximately two tournaments per month from October through the end of the season (May or June, depending on the age group)

When will we receive the tournament schedule?

Tournament schedules are controlled by the tournament organizer and are usually released on Wednesday or Thursday of tournament week. Please be prepared for games at any time on Saturday and Sunday, with occasional schedule changes through Friday evening.

How much playing time will my child receive?

Playing time is not guaranteed on competitive travel teams. Coaches consider attendance, effort, coachability, practice habits, game situations, and team needs when determining playing time.

Can my child miss a tournament?

We understand that family events, illness, and emergencies happen. However, tournament participation is a commitment to your teammates. Please notify your coach as soon as possible if your player cannot attend.

What time should we arrive for games?

Players should arrive 30 minutes before game time wearing their complete uniform and ready to warm up with the team.

Where are tournaments held?

Most tournaments take place throughout Los Angeles and Orange County, with occasional events in surrounding areas.

What division will my team play in?

Our teams are placed in the tournament division that provides the best opportunity for development. We don't chase trophies by playing down. As teams improve throughout the season, tournament divisions may change to ensure players continue to be challenged.

How do I register for a ProSkills program?

Registration is completed online through our website. Simply choose the program that's the best fit for your athlete, complete the registration form, and follow the checkout instructions. If you're unsure which program is right for your child, we're happy to help.

What programs are available?

ProSkills offers several development pathways to meet players where they are:

• Train & Play Clinics – Flexible weekly skill development and scrimmages.

• ProSkills 3v3 League – Weekly practices and Saturday games with a lower time commitment.

• Competitive Tournament Teams – Full-season teams for committed players ready for higher-level competition.

• ProSkills Stars – Tournament teams and development opportunities for girls.

• K–1 Ballers – An introduction to basketball for our youngest athletes.

Can my child try a program before committing?

Many of our clinics and development programs offer trial opportunities throughout the year, subject to availability. Email proskillsdirector@gmail.com to inquire. Tournament teams are selected through tryouts and require a season commitment.

How is tuition paid?

 Tournament team tuition is a full season committment and billed in installments, while clinics are billed monthly or by session depending on the program. All billing is done in TeamSnap registration.

What is included in tuition?

Tuition includes professional coaching, structured practices, player development, and facility rental. Tournament team tuition also includes league administration and season programming.

Tournament entry fees and uniforms may be billed separately depending on the program.

Is there a uniform fee?

Yes. Tournament team players purchase a ProSkills uniform package, which includes the required game uniforms The current uniform package fee is $150.

Do you offer financial assistance?

Yes. We never want financial barriers to prevent a child from participating in ProSkills. Need-based financial assistance and moderated tuition may be available for qualifying families. If cost is a concern, please contact us confidentially to discuss available options.

What is your refund policy?

Program registration reserves your athlete's spot and allows us to plan coaches, facilities, and team rosters. Because of these commitments, tuition and registration fees are non-refundable. The full billing policy is signed during your registration waivers. If you have questions about your specific situation, please contact us.

Can I switch programs during the season?

In some cases, yes. If your athlete's goals or availability change, we'll work with your family to find the best program fit whenever possible. Availability and team roster considerations may apply.

Can I cancel my registration?

If you need to withdraw from a program, please notify us as soon as possible. Tournament team players are expected to fulfill their season commitment, while Train & Play programs are billed month to month may be canceled with two weeks' notice before the next billing cycle, in accordance with our program policies.

Who should I contact if I have billing or registration questions?

For questions about registration, tuition, payments, or financial assistance, please contact the ProSkills office proskillsdirector@gmail.com. We're happy to help you find the program that's the best fit for your athlete.

What is expected of ProSkills parents?

Parents are our partners in player development. We ask families to:

• Support consistent attendance.
• Arrive on time for practices and games.
• Encourage effort, coachability, and sportsmanship.
• Allow coaches to coach.
• Help create a positive environment for every player.

Can parents watch practices?

Yes. Parents are welcome to observe practices. We simply ask that you watch quietly and avoid coaching from the sidelines so players receive one consistent message from their coaches.

Should I coach my child during games?

No. We encourage parents to cheer, support, and enjoy watching their athlete compete. Coaching from the stands can create confusion and take away from the player's learning experience.

When is the best time to talk with a coach?

Please avoid discussing playing time, strategy, or concerns immediately before, during, or after practices and games. If you'd like to speak with a coach, contact them to schedule a conversation at a mutually convenient time.

What if I have concerns about my child's experience?

We encourage open communication. Start by speaking directly with your child's coach. If additional support is needed, our Directors are always available to help.

How do coaches communicate with families?

Coaches communicate schedules, tournament information, and important updates through our TeamSnap communication platform and email. Please check messages regularly throughout the season.

What if my child is struggling or losing confidence?

Growth isn't always linear. Every player experiences challenges throughout the season. We encourage families to focus on effort, improvement, and learning rather than statistics or wins. If you have concerns, please reach out so we can work together to support your athlete.

How can I best support my athlete after games?

Keep the conversation simple. Let the coach handle basketball instruction and focus on encouraging your child, celebrating their effort, and asking questions like:

• "Did you have fun?"
• "What did you learn today?"
• "What are you proud of?"

What is the 24-hour rule?

If emotions are running high after a game, we ask parents to wait until the following day before discussing concerns with a coach. This allows everyone time to reflect and have a more productive conversation.

How can I help make ProSkills a positive experience?

Be positive, support every player on the team, respect officials and opponents, communicate respectfully, and trust the development process. When coaches, players, and parents work together, everyone benefits.

Who should I contact if I have questions?

We're here to help! The best person to contact depends on your question:

• Team-specific questions (practices, games, attendance, playing time): Your child's coach. Their contact information is in TeamSnap
• Registration, billing, uniforms, or program information: proskillsdirector@gmail.com
• Questions that can't be resolved with your coach: A ProSkills Director. ProSkills boys, Justin McCurdy. ProSkills Stars, Alex Tucker

We encourage families to communicate early so we can provide the best support possible.

How will I receive important updates?

Program updates, practice schedules, tournament information, weather cancellations, and other announcements are communicated through our TeamSnap communication platform and email. Please make sure your contact information is current and check messages regularly.

Where can I find schedules?

Practice schedules are provided when programs begin. Tournament schedules for Competitive Teams are typically released by tournament organizers on Wednesday or Thursday of tournament week and will be shared with families as soon as they become available.

How do I update my contact information?

If your email address, phone number, or emergency contact information changes during the season, you are able to edit your information in your child's TeamSnap Profile.

What happens if practice or a game is canceled?

If practices or games are canceled due to facility closures, holidays or unforeseen circumstances, families will be notified as soon as possible through TeamSnap & Email. Please make sure you allow notifications in your settings.

How can I stay connected with ProSkills?

Follow @proskillshoops Instagram and visit our website for announcements, registration information, camps, clinics, and upcoming events.

Can my child continue with ProSkills after this season?

Absolutely! ProSkills offers year-round development opportunities, including:

• Competitive Tournament Teams
• Train & Play Clinics
• ProSkills 3v3 League
• July Off Season Training
• Seasonal Camps

Our goal is to provide a clear pathway for players from their first basketball experience through high school.

Still have a question?

We're always happy to help. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, please reach out to us. We look forward to partnering with your family and helping your athlete grow as both a basketball player and a person.

Ready to Get Started?

Visit our Programs page to find the best fit for your athlete, or Contact Us to speak with a member of the ProSkills team. We're excited to welcome you to the ProSkills family!