Youth hoops club hits 30 years

JEREMIAH BARTZ/ Frontiersman sports editor

WASILLA - It would be difficult to find a youth sport organization in the Mat-Su area that has survived as long as Valley Youth Basketball.

For the last three decades, the organization has catered to local children grades 3-8 eager to hit the hardwood for a less competitive brand of basketball.

When the next group of VYBB players hit the court in January, the club will be celebrating it's 30th year.

Mark Dinkel, president of the organization, started as a player in the first season of VYBB. Dinkel said the family atmosphere and contributions from the community have allowed the organization to survive as long as it has. After participating in the programs as a players, he has returned to coach his own children.

&#8220We love basketball, and this is a great way for your kids to experience the game of basketball,” Dinkel said. &#8220I think this league is really well run.”

Dinkel expects about 500 children from the Wasilla area to be involved in the program this year. Teams in the association practice and play in games once or twice each week in the gymnasiums of the elementary and middle schools in Wasilla. There are 55 different teams in the association, and more than 100 volunteer coaches.

The goals of the organization are fun and participation.

&#8220We're very recreational-minded,” Dinkel said. &#8220We try to make it fun.”

Everyone plays, and there is a two-quarter limit to ensure significant playing time for everyone.

For those interested in being a little more serious about competition, Dinkel said, the association is adding a competitive league this season. Those teams are available for players in grades 5-8. Teams will be broken down into grades 5-6 and

7-8.

Dinkel said the parents and coaches have talked about this addition for a while, but began seriously considering the move last year. The association will partner with Palmer's Matanuska Youth Activities Council to create a competitive relationship between the two clubs.

VYBB is currently accepting registration for players in both the recreational and competitive leagues.

For registration information, see www.vybb.com.