2025-26 Cardinal Hoops

Any boy in grades 3–8 who is currently enrolled in the Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District is eligible to participate in Cardinal Hoops.

Boys in grades 3–8 who live within the district boundaries but attend a school outside the district may also be eligible. Participation is contingent upon the school not offering a basketball program similar in structure to Cardinal Hoops, and final approval must be granted by the Board of Directors.

The season typically runs from mid-October through March. For 3rd and 4th grade, the season usually wraps up by December or the end of January.

Tryouts for grades 5-8 will typically be held in September.

The number of tournaments each team plays varies by grade and is largely determined by the Great Northwest Basketball League (GNBL). On average, younger teams participate in fewer tournaments, while older teams have more opportunities. Teams may also qualify for additional tournaments throughout the season.

Most teams will take part in a home tournament, where families are expected to volunteer. Each tournament typically includes three games in one day, which helps avoid the need for overnight stays.

Teams will hold a minimum of one practice per week, lasting up to 90 minutes, beginning at the start of the season and continuing through the tournament season. Additional practices may be scheduled at the discretion of the coaches, based on gym availability. Practices are at Chippewa Falls School Locations.

Team Formation & Playing Time Policy

• 3rd and 4th Grade Teams will be divided as equally as possible to support balanced instruction and development.
• 5th through 8th Grade Teams will be formed based on skills demonstrated during mandatory tryouts. Participation in tryouts is required to be placed on a team. These teams will remain consistent throughout the tournament season.

3rd and 4th Grade Uniform

• Players keep the same jersey for both years.
• A new jersey is only issued in 4th grade if it’s the player’s first year.
• Replacement jerseys are available if needed for an additional cost, or players may continue using their 3rd-grade jersey at no cost.
• Players are required to wear plain black shorts, purchased on their own.
• Shooting shirts will be provided to each player and are to be worn to games.

5th through 8th Grade Uniform

• Each player will receive a jersey, shooting shirt, and basketball shorts, which are required to be worn at games.
• Players are responsible for caring for and washing their jersey and uniform items.
• Only jerseys must be returned clean within one week after the last tournament or a replacement fee applies. Shorts and shooting shirts are for players to keep. 
• Uniform fees are included in registration.