What is AAU?

AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) is a nationwide basketball platform that gives players the chance to compete at a higher level outside of their school season. It’s built on club/travel teams that bring athletes together for development, exposure, and competition.

Why join AAU?

Players benefit from:

• Exposure: Top players and teams competing in front of college scouts and recruiters.

• Competition: Facing top talent from other towns, states, and even regions.

• Development: More practices, more games, and advanced skill training.

• Opportunities: Building relationships, traveling, and learning life lessons through the game.

• All Kwiet Storm teams operate under the direction of Division 1 Hall of Famer, Kia Wright. While Coach Kia may not serve as the head coach for every team or attend every event, she oversees the programs philosophy, player development, coaching standards and overall direction to ensure a consistent experience across every team. 

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• The traditional AAU season runs March through July, with tryouts and sign-ups taking place in late winter (January–February). This is the core travel season where players compete in weekend tournaments, showcases, and higher-level competition. 

   

  At Kwiet Storm, we also create opportunities for athletes to play beyond the AAU window. Depending on player commitment and the leagues/tournaments available, elementary, middle school and high school teams may have summer, fall and winter seasons. These sessions focus on development, local league play, and additional tournaments to keep players sharp.

   

  In short, while AAU is not a year-round requirement, Kwiet Storm offers basketball opportunities throughout the year for those ready to stay active, grow, and compete.

• Teams are formed by age, grade and ability.

• Tryouts are required. Not everyone who applies is guaranteed a spot, players earn their place based on skill, effort, and fit within a team.

• Players begin by submitting a registration form and paying the $30 membership fee.

• After tryouts, selected players will receive a formal team placement notice with details on uniforms, schedules, and fees.

• Families can expect to hear back within 1 week of tryouts/registration about next steps.

• The $30 fee covers Kwiet Storm annual membership (priority registration, access to our network, discounted training and program updates). It is not the full cost of AAU participation.

• Additional costs may include:

• Uniforms (approx. $80-$90)

• Tournament entry fees per athlete & referees (shared among the team)

• Travel expenses (hotels, gas, meals for out-of-town tournaments)

• We’re transparent so families know exactly where their investment goes.

• Travel: Some tournaments are local, but many require regional travel (NY, NJ, CT, PA, etc.).

• Practice & Attendance: Players are expected to attend all practices and games unless excused.

• Academics & Conduct: Athletes must stay in good academic standing and represent Kwiet Storm positively on and off the court.

• Communication: Families are expected to respond promptly to team communication and schedule updates.

• Parent Expectations: Parents are expected to model respect for staff, players and opponents, and allow coaches to coach and players to play.

• Player Development: Playing time is NOT guaranteed and is earned through team needs, effort, attitude, attendance and development.

• Volunteer Support: Families will be asked to participate and assist with fundraising, team events, or organization initiatives throughout the season. 

• Player Commitment: Players should be dedicated to growth on and off of the court and will be held to a high standard when it comes to development.