Get ready to lace up those sneakers and hit the court because the 10th Annual Fall Invitational is coming to Corona, California, this October! This basketball bonanza is set to take place on October 26-27, 2024, at The Draft Sports Complex, located at 1560 E 6th Street in Corona.
A Decade of Dribbling Delight
As part of the Family-Friendly Fall Activities, this tournament has been a slam dunk for young basketball enthusiasts. It’s not just any old game – it’s a chance for budding ballers to show off their skills, make new friends, and maybe even catch the eye of a scout or two.
Who’s Invited to the Party?
This shindig isn’t just for the LeBron Jameses of tomorrow. The Fall Invitational welcomes boys and girls from 8th to 2nd grade. Whether you’re a pint-sized point guard or a towering center-in-training, you have a spot on the court.
Something for Everyone
Now, don’t worry if you’re not the next Michael Jordan (yet). The tournament caters to all skill levels:
- Elite: For those kids who eat, sleep, and breathe basketball
- Competitive: Perfect for the serious players who still remember to have fun
- Developmental: Great for newcomers still figuring out which end of the ball to dribble
Show Me the Money (and the Games)
Alright, let’s talk turkey. The entry fee ranges from $225 to $295, depending on your team’s division. But hold onto your jerseys, folks, because that fee gets you a guaranteed minimum of three games. That’s right, three chances to shine brighter than the California sun!
More Than Just Hoops
The folks behind this event aren’t messing around. They’ve been in the game since 2015 and know how to put on a show. Here’s what you can expect:
- Media Coverage: Your kid’s sweet layup might make the highlight reel
- Certified Officials: No more arguments about whether that was a travel or not
- Quality Awards: Because who doesn’t love a shiny trophy?
The Venue: Draft Sports Complex
Now, let’s chat about where all this magic is happening. The Draft Sports Complex in Corona is the place to be. With 14 courts under one roof, it’s like a basketball paradise. Just imagine the squeak of sneakers and the swish of nets echoing through the building – music to a basketball fan’s ears!
A Word to the Wise
Here’s a hot tip: while the complex is usually a cool place to play, some folks have mentioned it can get a bit toasty inside when the mercury rises. So, pack extra water and maybe a personal fan or two. After all, we want our young stars to stay hydrated and focused on their crossover dribbles, not on the heat.
Getting in on the Action
Excited? You should be! If you’re ready to join the fun, here’s what you need to do:
- Gather your team (or join one if you’re flying solo)
- Choose your division (remember: Elite, Competitive, or Developmental)
- Register online or contact the organizers
Speaking of organizers, if you have questions (and let’s face it, you probably do), reach out to Dashaun Thomas. You can email him at dthomas@dtathletics.org or call him at 951-965-0358. He’s the go-to guy for all things Fall Invitational.
Why This Tournament Rocks
Let’s break it down:
- It’s a chance for kids to play their hearts out
- Parents get to cheer from the sidelines (and maybe sneak in a bit of networking with other basketball-crazy families)
- Coaches can see how their teams stack up against the competition
- The whole community comes together for a weekend of sports and fun
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t just about who scores the most points or takes home the biggest trophy. The 10th Annual Fall Invitational is about building confidence, teaching teamwork, and creating memories long after the final buzzer sounds.
Remember, in the words of the great philosopher (okay, basketball coach) John Wooden, “Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” So come on down to Corona this October, and let’s see what these young athletes can do!
Sources: basketball.exposureevents.com, ca.milesplit.com
Header Image Source: Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash
