Announcement

We want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Zach Gamblin for his years of dedication, leadership, and service as the Travel Team Coordinator for the Fox Chapel Area Basketball Program. His commitment has been an intergal part of the program’s success.

As we look ahead to the 2025–26 travel basketball season, we’re excited to welcome a new Board of Directors made up of seasoned coaches, former college players, and passionate basketball leaders. This team includes Maranda Friday, Jason Jablon, Shannon Kearney, and Brian Madden along with Zach Gamblin, who will continue to share his experience with the program.

Together, this group brings a wealth of basketball knowledge, energy, leadership and vision to support our athletes and families in the seasons ahead.

Travel Basketball Information & Tryout Details

2025-26 TRY OUT REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED!

Teams have been selected and we wish all players and coaches good luck this season!

Important Notes

Parents are not permitted to remain in the gym or hallways during tryouts. Please sign your child in, then return for pickup at the end of the session.
Players should bring their own basketball (extras available if needed).
Players should bring their own water bottle.
Attending both tryout sessions is encouraged, but not required.

What is Travel Basketball?

Travel basketball gives athletes the chance to compete at a higher level. Teams play in leagues and tournaments against other travel programs in the Pittsburgh area, with select teams potentially advancing to the PA State Tournament at the discretion of the head coach and Board of Directors.

This program is designed for players who are eager to challenge themselves, strengthen their fundamentals, and grow as teammates while learning the values of sportsmanship and commitment. Because travel basketball is competitive, playing time is not guaranteed and is determined by the coach.

Who Can Play?

Boys’ and Girls’ teams will be offered in 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade.*
A maximum of two teams per grade will be formed (depending on competitiveness and gym availability).
Players must try out with their grade/age group. Playing up will only be considered under rare circumstances approved by the Board of Directors and age group coaches.
Eligible players are students who attend (or will attend) Fox Chapel Area or Shady Side High Schools and live in the Fox Chapel School District *

*A travel team for a given grade will only be formed if there are enough players with the skills necessary to compete in a travel league against other organizations, as determined by the evaluators and Board of Directors. In cases where a team cannot be formed, the Board will work with coaches and families to develop an alternate plan that best supports the growth and development of athletes in that grade.

*To participate, players must live in one of the zip codes that make up the Fox Chapel Area School District: 15238, 15223, 15215, 15209, 15206, 15147, 15139, 15116, 15101, 15084, or 15051.

Season Timeline

Tryouts: Mid-October
Practices Begin: November
Season Runs: November 1 – mid-March
Games: Start in December and end late February (tournaments may extend into March)

Games

Away Games: Locations vary throughout the Pittsburgh area, scheduled by host teams (weekdays or weekends).
- Each league season typically includes 10 or more games, followed by an end-of-season tournament. Most games are within a 20–30 minute drive and may be scheduled on weeknights or weekends, depending on the league.
Tournaments: Teams may enter mid-season or year-end tournaments.
- Teams will participate in tournaments that are typically held on weekends, with games scheduled on Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday. Many teams also compete in a Winter Break tournament, which may include midweek games.
- Most tournaments guarantee each team at least 3 games. If a team advances, additional playoff games may be added, resulting in 1–3 more games depending on how far the team progresses.

Practices

Pre-season: Multiple practices per week.
In-season: At least one but up to 3 practices per week, held on weekday evenings and Sunday afternoons.

Cost

Approx. $400–$450+ per player. (Final costs may vary by team, depending on specific expenses, which can differ from one team to another.)
Covers: uniforms, league/tournament entry fees, gym rental, clinics, and insurance.
This year, there will be an initial payment due before the season starts to cover most of the expenses. If your child makes a team, you’ll get the exact amount and due date in your first email so you can look it over before deciding to accept a spot. We’re still finalizing overall team costs and will share those details as soon as they’re set.

Tryout Process

Each grade (boys and girls) will have two open tryout sessions. Pre-registration using the link is requested.
- You must click the CHECKOUT Button after your form(s) have been submitted to complete registration.
Players are encouraged to attend both sessions.
During tryouts, athletes will participate in a combination of drills and live scrimmaging to assess a variety of basketball skills and overall athletic ability.

Team Selection

Players will be evaluated by a panel of coaches.
Rosters will be capped at 10 players per team.
Final team announcements will be made in the last week of October.

Practice & Game Commitment

By accepting a spot on a competitive travel team, families understand that in-season practices and games are a commitment. Consistent attendance is important for the success of both your player and the team.

If your family anticipates frequent travel or your child plans to participate in multiple sports during the season, please have a conversation with your child’s head coach before accepting a roster spot. This will help ensure clear expectations and a positive experience for everyone involved.

Want to Coach?

If you’re interested in coaching this season, send an email to foxchapeltravelbasketball@gmail.com
Please include a little info about your coaching experience and copies of the required PA clearances (PA Child Abuse, PA State Police, and FBI Criminal History Record). See link
If the Board thinks you’re a good fit, we’ll be in touch to set up a conversation and get to know you better.

We look forward to seeing you at tryouts!
If you have any questions, please email foxchapeltravelbasketball@gmail.com

Fox Chapel Travel Basketball Board of Directors

THANK YOU SPONSORS