West Michigan Laker Commitment

Frequently Asked Questions

2008

Playing for the West Michigan Lakers is a big commitment. It is not for everyone. It is important for you and your family to understand what is all involved when participating in a program of this nature. Below are some frequently asked questions about the investment a player and his family needs to understand before deciding to try out for the West Michigan Lakers.

What is the length of the season?

The season basically starts immdiately after the high school state finals (Saturday, March 15th) with a 1 day try-out scheduled for Sunday, March 16th. The teams will be determined no later than Wednesday, March 19th. A parent meeting will be held on Thursday, March 20th prior to the first team practice. Our goal is to have 3-4 practices prior to the week of spring break. 

 Where, when & how long are practices?

Practice dates and times will be only 2 nights per week with a start time of somewhere between 7 & 8pm going between 1 1/2 to 2 hours long. Practices will be at Macatawa Bay middle school for all 3 teams at the same time and days of the week (T & TH).

How many weekend tournaments are there?

The spring season consist of 5 tournament  weekends beginning the weekend of April 19th through May 18th. Depending on how well our teams play, we can play anywhere between 4 and 8 games in a weekend. In July, the u17 team and possibly the u16's will participate in 2 additional national showcase tournaments. (see tournament schedule).

Can I play a high school spring sport and play for the WM Lakers?

Yes you can, but please look over both your schedules and make sure you do not spread yourself to thin. We encourage you to participate with your high school teams and teammates, and if on occassion you have to miss a practice or a game, with advanced notice we will excuse you. With that said, in fairness to your Laker teammates who are at all practices and game, playing time may be affected.

What is the financial costs involved?

The financial cost has been determined and is explained below.

Seniors-to-be: $585                    Juniors-to-be: $535                    Sophomores-to-be: $485

• Seniors to be: 7 tournaments (includes Las Vegas and Midwest explosion)
• Juniors to be: 6 tournaments (includes Midwest explosion)
• Sophs to be: 5 tournaments (includes 5 spring tournaments)
• 14 practices
• New practice jersey (players keep)
• New practice shorts (players keep)
• New warm-up jersey (players keep)
• WML quick-dri t-shirt (players keep)
• Game uniforms (return)
• Family Cook-Out at GR Storm Tournament
• Family Cook-Out at Camp Darryl Tournament
• Jason Otter one day work-out (valued at $175 per player)

Does not include food or travel expenses, however this years spring tournament schedule will only involve 2 overnight weekends. (only 1 for 15's)

Due to past seasons expierences with players fees, there are no exceptions, all player fees are due no later than Tuesday, March 25th.

As stated at the beginning of this message, this is a big commitment not only for the player but for the families as well. With that said, this has been a tremendous expierence for so many of our past players and families. If fully committed, your son will not only have the opportunity to compete against some of the best high school competition, but create new friends, gain self confidence, improve as a basketball player and create great memories for a lifetime.