Coaching Resources

Thank you for volunteering to be a Turnpike Basketball Coach!

Your time and mentorship are incredibly valuable to the young athletes in our program and community.

This guide includes everything you need to prepare for the season:

  • Preseason Requirements – 4 steps to complete before the season begins
  • Team Preparation Essentials – first tasks after tryouts/draft
  • Season Guides & Resources – helpful information for practices and games

If you have questions, contact us at turnpike.basketball@gmail.com.
Thank you for your commitment, and enjoy your coaching experience!

Preseason Requirements

All head coaches, assistant coaches, and on-court volunteers must complete these steps before the season begins:

Step 1: Register with Us

  • Complete the Coach/Volunteer Registration Form →
    • This is required in addition to your child's Player Registration Form.
    • Provide three references (name, relationship, contact info).
    • Create your own TeamSnap account.

Step 2: Get a Background Check

  • Complete the Background Check Application →
    • Required for all head and assistant coaches.
    • Coaches under 18 are exempt, but the adult with the team must undergo the check

Step 3: Complete VBD Training

  • Start VBD Training →
    • Each team must have a certified Volunteer Building Director (VBD) to use Fairfax County gyms.
    • VBDs must be 18+, so if a coach is under 18, the adult with the team must complete the training.
    • Training is online, takes less than an hour, and is valid for two years.
    • Coaches may serve as VBDs for practices but not games.

Step 4: Understand Our Player Safety Guidelines

  • Read our Player Safety Guidelines →
    • Required reading includes our:
      • Abuse & Molestation Policy
      • Anti-Bullying Policy
      • Concussion Awareness
      • Photo Release
      • Social Media Policy
    • Coaches are responsible for the well-being of their own players and all others in the gym.

Team Preparation Essentials

Once tryouts or the draft are complete, do these steps right away:

1. Access Your Team Page

2. Add Your Practice Schedule

  • After the County issues gym permits, coaches will enter their team’s weekly time slot.
  • Be aware gyms may be unavailable at times; cancellations by schools are final.
  • If a practice is cancelled:
    • Check the shared spreadsheet for open slots.
    • Replacement practices must be scheduled within one week of the missed date.
    • Contact us with your requested slot and we will assign a makeup if available.

3. Send a Welcome Email

  • Introduce yourself and provide details to your team. Include:
    • Your name and team name
    • Coaching experience (if applicable)
    • Weekly practice slot
    • Game frequency
    • Volunteer needs (VBDs, scorer’s table)
    • Any personal preferences/expectations (RSVPs, behavior, sportsmanship)

Season Guides & Resources

Throughout the season, use these resources:

  • Pregame & Postgame FAQ – which team wears which color, VBD duties, setup/cleanup
  • Gym Permit & Game Rules – gym access and County requirements
  • Participation & Substitution Rules – quick summary of league rules
  • Rescheduling Procedures – how to request a new practice/game
  • Health & Safety – what to do if a player or coach tests positive for COVID

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