Exciting News: Grasshopper Basketball Registration is Now Live!

The Sedona Parks and Recreation Department has opened registration for its Grasshopper Basketball League, aimed at youth in grades one through eight. Parents can enroll their children until Sunday, Nov. 24, for a fee of $35, which includes a team jersey.

Practices will kick off after Thanksgiving, followed by the league’s official start on Saturday, Jan. 11. The season will wrap up on Saturday, March 1.

According to the department’s website, the league prioritizes skill development, sportsmanship, and a positive environment. Each participant will receive a jersey and an award upon the season’s conclusion.

Athletics and Aquatics Supervisor Carmen Brashier is seeking approximately a dozen head and assistant coaches. New coaches will benefit from a 10-week practice guide, while all coaches will receive CPR and pediatric CPR training.

Brashier explained that younger players (first and second graders) will have weekly practices, whereas third through eighth graders may practice up to twice a week. Each player can expect one game every Saturday for eight weeks.

Games are tentatively scheduled at the West Sedona School gymnasium from 9 a.m. until late afternoon. However, Brashier is exploring a second venue to allow for earlier game completions.

“Initial practices are structured to help kids bond through discussions and activities,” Brashier said. “They engage in warm-ups that lead to skill drills and gameplay. Each session wraps up with a team circle, allowing families to share takeaway activities.”

Last season saw participation from about 124 players, an increase from 99 the prior year. Brashier is optimistic about reaching 140 to 150 players across about 20 teams this season, with ten players per team.

To enhance community involvement, each team is encouraged to have a main parent volunteer to assist with snacks and refreshments after games.

Parents can register their children at sedonaaz.gov/sports or contact Brashier directly via email at cbrashier@sedonaaz.gov or phone at (928) 203-5077.