Clothing
Shorts must be above the knee and cannot have any pockets or belt loops or be of the “tear-away” type. They are usually baggy to allow for maximum freedom of movement. Team jerseys are provided by the community clubs. There should be numbers printed on both the front and the back of the jersey. The jerseys should be reversible with different colors on each side. If a player chooses to wear a T-shirt under their jersey, the T-shirt must either be the same color as the jersey or be white.
Socks
Thick cushion-foot type of socks are recommended. They absorb the sweat and give an additional cushion for the many landings that the player will make during the game. Acrylic or two pairs of socks should be worn to avoid blistering.
Shoes
Footwear is extremely important. The game of basketball, at any age or skill level involves lots of running, stopping, changing direction, jumping and landing. A means of preventing injuries while playing basketball is a proper rubber-soled shoe. Shoes should be basketball-specific, with lots of ankle support and shock absorption. Footwear must have a good rubber sole that does not mark the floors and provides the best grip possible. Footwear should be conformable and fit properly, or a player’s foot may be subject to blisters or injuries.
The basketball shoe can be high top or low cut. A high top runner is preferable because it gives greater ankle support. Ankle injuries are the most common in basketball and many can be avoided with a good pair of basketball shoes. Heel spurs and shin splints can occur if you do not have the proper cushioning. The shoe should have a thick rubber sole and made of material that will cushion the jumping and landing that occurs during the game.
There are shoes made specifically for the game of basketball. This is the most important investment you will make for your child in this sport. Purchase your basketball shoes from sporting good retailers who specialize in helping you select and fit your child and their needs.
Shoes should fit well and be replaced before the soles become smooth, or before the uppers begin to tear or come apart. Shoes currently being worn by players in league games and practices should not be worn outside. Water is the biggest factor on how long a shoe will last. Its best to store the shoes in a warm, dry place. A tip to quickly dry out a pair of shoes is to stuff them with newspaper.
Basketball shoes can be purchased from the athletic stores in the major shopping malls in Maryborough ranging in price from $75 to over $150. As with most things, you definitely get what you pay for when it comes to athletic footwear. The better quality shoes will cost more initially, but in the long run they will last longer and perform better for your child’s benefit. Make sure your kids only wear these shoes on the court and not outside. They are made to last, but made for use on the court floor, not on concrete or asphalt. Take care of them and they’ll last until your child grows out of them.
Jewellery
The Association strictly forbids the wearing of any forms of jewelry in league games or practices such as earrings and other body piercings (nose, tongue, eyebrow, etc.), necklaces, watches, bracelets and rings. These items are restricted due to the fact they pose a serious safety risk to the wearer and those around them. Taping the item is not an option. The best solution to this is to remove the item before you leave for the game or practice and leave it at home. Referees reserve the right to not allow a player to participate if jewelry is not removed prior to the start of the game.
Water Bottles & Sports Drinks
The Association encourages all players to bring and use their own water bottles to games and practices for sanitary reasons. By using your own bottle, you will reduce the chances of spreading colds, flu’s and other viruses. It is wise to often wash the bottle thoroughly throughout the season with hot water or in the dishwasher. The best thing to drink when involved in physical activity is water. Sports drinks offer more minerals, which are needed when active.