For young basketball players in Sydney, REP basketball trials are one of the biggest opportunities of the year. They’re also one of the most misunderstood. Many kids walk into trials without a plan, and parents aren’t always sure how to help either.
That’s why we’ve built this complete guide. Based on insights from ProBall coaches and years of experience preparing kids aged 5–14 for the next level, this post will show you exactly what to expect, what coaches look for, and how your child can stand out.
What Is REP Basketball in Sydney?
REP basketball is representative-level competition, run by associations like:
- City of Sydney Comets
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Sutherland Sharks
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Bankstown Bruins
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Norths Bears
Players selected for REP represent their region and compete in higher-level leagues, often traveling for games. It’s a big step above local comps — more training, more commitment, and much higher competition.
Who Can Trial for REP?
Most associations open trials for players as young as U12 (10–11 years old), though age cutoffs vary. Trials are open, anyone can register, but only the most prepared players will make it.
Parents often ask:
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“Does my child need years of experience?”
Not always — coaches are looking for potential as well as current ability. -
“Do you have to play at that association already?”
No. Many kids come from local clubs or programs like ProBall Academy, then trial at REP.
What Coaches Really Look For at Trials
A. Skills
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Ball handling under pressure
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Shooting with proper form and footwork
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Layups (both hands)
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Defensive slides and positioning
B. Physical Attributes
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Speed and agility
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Endurance
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Strength (relative to age)
C. Basketball IQ
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Decision-making (pass vs shoot)
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Reading the defense
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Spacing on the floor
D. Intangibles (often the decider)
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Hustle (diving for loose balls, rebounding)
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Communication (calling plays, encouraging teammates)
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Body language (how you react after a mistake)
How to Prepare for REP Trials
Train the Fundamentals
Skills like footwork, layups, and defense are non-negotiable. Don’t just work on shooting, reps in fundamentals win spots.
Play Games
Coaches want to see decision-making in real situations. Programs like MiniBall and ProBall Competition Teams help prepare kids with live game experience.
Work on Conditioning
REP trials often include fitness tests. Being the fittest player in the gym makes a huge impression.
Mindset Training
Learn to respond, not react. Coaches notice whether you stay calm or lose focus.
The Trial Day Experience
Warm-Up
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Be early, get shots up, show focus.
Drills
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Ball handling stations
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Shooting drills
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Defense 1v1
Scrimmages
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Coaches want to see how you fit in a team.
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Don’t force shots, but don’t hide either.
Coach Notes
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Every coach writes observations. “Energy,” “attitude,” and “coachability” are often mentioned more than “3pt shot.”
Common Mistakes That Hurt Players
❌ Only focusing on offense
❌ Negative body language (eye rolls, slumped shoulders)
❌ Not listening to instructions
❌ Going quiet instead of communicating
❌ Trying to do too much to “stand out”
Parent Role in REP Trials
Parents aren’t trialing, but they play a huge part.
✅ Get your child to training and games consistently.
✅ Encourage effort and learning, not just results.
✅ Don’t coach from the sideline. Support, don’t stress them.
Beginner basketball lessons Sydney
After the Trials: Next Steps
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If selected: Congrats! Prepare for more training, travel, and commitment.
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If not selected: It’s not the end. Many players don’t make it their first try, but programs like ProBall’s REP Prep build the exact skills needed to make it next year.
Why ProBall Runs REP Info Sessions
At ProBall, we don’t run REP trials, but we prepare kids for them.
Our REP Info Session helps families understand:
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What REP is really about
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What skills and intangibles to focus on
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How to build a roadmap to success
📍 Perry Park Recreation Centre
📅 Sunday, 14th September
⏰ U12s (born 2015 to 2017): 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM / U14s & U16s (born 2011 to 2014): 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
👉 Register for the REP Info Session here
Conclusion
REP basketball is more than just a trial; it’s a test of skills, mindset, and resilience. The kids who succeed are those who prepare, stay positive, and show they can be great teammates as well as players.
At ProBall, we believe REP dreams start with the right foundation, and we’re here to give young players every chance to succeed.
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REP Basketball Sydney → Basketball NSW
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Basketball Skills Training → ProBall Academy
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Beginner Basketball Lessons Sydney → MiniBall Learn to Play Program
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REP Info Session → ProBall REP Info Page