The following is a framework to help families understand how teams are formed and how game time is managed.

📋 Divisions  

The number of divisions we offer depends on:

- How many players register

- How many coaches are available (usually a parent volunteer)

- How many referees are available (each team must have a referee)

- Inclusion of NEJL/NJL Rep Player restrictions: Still being finalised by NCS Committee.

We aim to place players where they'll be appropriately challenged, enjoy the game and continue developing.

What is a Rep Player?

A rep player is someone who has played in Northern Junior League (NJL) Div 1 or Div 2 — a representative competition run by Basketball NSW. Some divisions limit the amount of rep players allowed on teams.

⏱ Game Time Expectations

Playing time is not guaranteed and may vary each game depending on:

- Game flow or strategy

- Player performance or readiness

- Foul trouble, injuries, or fitness

- Matchups against the opposition

- Close games (within 10 points in the 4th quarter)

- Other game-day factors

- Training attendance 

In Division 1, playing time is fully at the coach’s discretion due to the higher level of competition.

Most of our coaches are parents who volunteer their time to give the kids in our community an opportunity to play and compete. Coaches aim to balance player development with team success and will communicate as needed. They're always learning and evolving their coaching style, and with every training session and game, they gain a better understanding of their players and the team as a whole. We appreciate your support and understanding along the way.  

Being selected to represent the Breakers is a privilege, not an entitlement. Every player who wears a Breakers uniform benefits from the countless hours, knowledge and effort that previous players, coaches, volunteers, referees and families have invested in our club. We expect our representative players and families to understand that they are part of something bigger than themselves and to contribute to the culture that has helped create these opportunities.

The Breakers culture is built on commitment, accountability, effort, respect and giving back. We expect all representative players and families to embrace these values throughout the season.

Player Expectations

Players selected in a Breakers representative team are expected to:

• Contribute to the development of the club by volunteering during the shield season. Representative players will be expected to assist on either a Monday or Tuesday with agreed volunteer activities including canteen or coaching younger teams. Players who volunteer to referee at Shield events are exempt from all other duties.
• Communicate promptly with coaches if they are unable to attend training, games or carnivals.
• Demonstrate a willingness to seek feedback from coaches. 
• Display positive attitudes, sportsmanship and respect towards coaches, teammates, officials, opponents and volunteers.
• Attend all scheduled carnivals and representative commitments.
• Play in Ballina's junior competitions on a regular basis.

Family Expectations

Representative basketball is only possible because of the support of volunteers. Families are expected to contribute to the club community and help share the workload that supports our players.

Parents and guardians are expected to:

• Support the values and culture of the Breakers program.
• Support the team vision of coaches by encouragement of all players rather than sideline coaching.
• Fulfil rostered bench duties for their child's team or arrange a suitable replacement if they are unable to attend.
• Volunteer at club fundraising and operational activities, including BBQs, canteen duties and carnival events.
• Communicate respectfully and constructively with coaches, team managers, and club officials.
• Understand that representative basketball requires a commitment from the parents, not just the player.

Joining the Breakers Family

Priority for team selection will be given to players who are currently registered and playing in Ballina Basketball's junior domestic competitions. Players from other associations or clubs will only be considered where a genuine team need exists and suitable local players are unavailable. Players are encouraged to outline their circumstances during the trial process, as these situations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

By submitting an Expression of Interest, players and parents acknowledge these expectations.