The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) is one of the oldest and most respected sporting organizations in the United States. The AAU has been around since 1888 and has helped shape the landscape of amateur sports for more than 130 years. Part of the AAU’s mission is to provide opportunities for young athletes to compete in various sports. One of the more popular sports that the AAU offers is basketball. But what is the oldest age for AAU basketball?
AAU Basketball Age Groups
The AAU has divided basketball into several different age groups. The youngest age group is 8U, which stands for 8 and Under. This age group is for players who are 8 years old or younger. There is also an 11U age group for players who are 11 years old or younger, and a 15U age group for players who are 15 years old or younger. The oldest age group is the 18U age group, which is for players who are 18 years old or younger.
Age Requirements
The AAU requires all players to meet certain age requirements in order to compete in their basketball programs. Players must meet the age requirements for their division in order to be eligible to compete. For example, if a player is 14 years old, they must be in the 15U division. If a player is 18 years old, they must be in the 18U division.
Age Limits
In addition to age requirements, the AAU also has age limits for players. Players cannot compete in any age group that is lower than their age. For example, a 15-year-old cannot compete in the 11U division, even if they meet the age requirements. The same is true of the 18U division. Players cannot compete in the 18U division if they are older than 18 years old.
Age Exceptions
The AAU does make exceptions to its age limits. In certain cases, players can compete in a division that is lower than their age. These exceptions are typically made for players who have special needs or have physical disabilities. Players who meet the criteria for an exception must submit an application to the AAU for review.
Conclusion
The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) is one of the oldest and most respected sporting organizations in the United States. The AAU offers basketball programs for players of all ages, from 8U to 18U. All players must meet the age requirements for their division in order to be eligible. The AAU also has age limits for players, meaning players cannot compete in any age group that is lower than their age. In certain cases, players can compete in a division that is lower than their age with an exception from the AAU. The oldest age for AAU basketball is 18U, meaning players must be 18 years old or younger to compete.