FAQs
General FAQs
What is CYO?
CYO stands for Catholic Youth Organization which was founded in Chicago in 1930 and expanded
internationally. The first CYO was conceptualized as an athletic association. CYO youth sports leagues are the most recognizable feature, and teams are typically connected to individual parishes.
The history of CYO in Pleasanton began in 1971 by Don and Judy Farro at St. Augustine and expanded with the addition of the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton campus. CCOP CYO sports include
Basketball, Track & Field and Cross Country.
What is CCOP?
Our Parish is CCOP – The Catholic Community of Pleasanton, which has two campus locations, St Augustine and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.
So what is the CCOP CYO Pogram all about?
CYO at CCOP is a Parish Ministry open to all girls and boys from 3rd Grade to 8th Grade. Additionally, it includes job training and development of High School students as referees.
It is blessed to have Volunteers from the Community providing leadership, coaching and support.
CCOP CYO has Co-Sponsorship status with the City of Pleasanton and works closely with PUSD (Pleasanton United School District).
We are a member of the Tri Valley CYO League which includes Pleasanton, Dublin, Livermore, San Ramon and Danville. The Tri Valley League is one of several East Bay Leagues which are part of the Oakland Diocese covering the counties of Alameda and Contra Costa.
Player Registration
Who is eligible to participate?
- Registered CCOP parishioners
- Residents of Pleasanton or Sunol
- Residents of other cities enrolled in CCOP Faith Formation Program
What are the age groups or grade levels eligible to participate in the league?
Our league is open to boys and girls in 3rd to 8th grade. We divide participants into age groups based on their current grade level to ensure fair competition and appropriate skill development.
I am not a Catholic. Can I still play in the league?
Absolutely, our CYO basketball league is open to participants of all faiths and beliefs. We embrace diversity and welcome all players from 3rd to 8th grade to join us in a positive and inclusive environment to learn and enjoy the game of basketball.
What is the registration fee?
For the 2025-26 season, regular registration fees is $375.
Early bird registration fees are $350 through July 15.
Can I request a fee reduction or waiver based on financial hardship?
We offer a limited number of scholarships each year. Send a request to our Athletic Director(s) with additional details regarding your request.
What is the refund policy?
If player cancels before Evaluations begin, a 100% refund will be given. If the cancellation occurs during or after Evaluations, a refund will not be honored. Please contact via the form on this page (https://www.ccopcyo.org/contact-us-2/) if you for any reason would like to cancel.
How are teams formed? Can my child play with friends or classmates?
We make every effort to accommodate requests for players to be placed on the same team as their friends or classmates. During the registration process, you can indicate any specific teammate requests, and we'll do our best to honor them while maintaining balanced teams
Parents
When does the basketball season typically start and how long does it last?
Our basketball season generally starts in October and runs through Jan/Feb. The exact dates will be provided closer to the season start.
Does the league break for holidays?
Several Holidays occur during the basketball season. During Christmas and New Years, League games are not scheduled. There are a few tournament opportunities that take place during the
Holiday breaks. Practices are made available. Coaches will communicate team activities.
Where are the games and practices scheduled?
Teams typically have two practices per week, scheduled based on the coach’s availability and gym access. Practices are held in Pleasanton at St. Elizabeth’s gym or one of the Pleasanton middle school gyms. As a co-sponsor of the youth program, CCOP CYO is able to rent these gyms at a subsidized rate. However, gym access is shared with other Pleasanton sports programs and subject to availability.
Games are usually held once a week on Sunday afternoons. Depending on league configurations, some games may be scheduled on Saturdays. Games are typically played in Pleasanton or throughout the Tri-Valley area, including Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, and Livermore.
Do I need to download the TeamSnap app?
It is not mandatory, but makes coordination with the coaches a lot easier.
How often are practices and games scheduled?
Teams have two practices per week based on the coach's schedule and gym availability. Games are typically scheduled once a week on Sunday afternoons. However, depending on League
configurations, some games may be on Saturday.
What equipment does my child need to participate?
Players are required to have appropriate basketball shoes, athletic attire and a water bottle. The league will provide team jerseys and game balls. It's also recommended to have a basketball for practicing at home.
Can parents or guardians volunteer as coaches or assistants?
Absolutely! We encourage parent and guardian involvement as coaches, assistant coaches, and team helpers. If you're interested in volunteering, please reach out to us here or indicate your preference during the registration process.
Can my child practice on specific days or times?
We do not assign registered players to specific practice days or times. After evaluations, your child will be placed on a team led by a volunteer coach. Teams practice twice per week, with schedules based on the coach’s availability and gym access.
Once you hear from your team’s head coach, you’ll have the opportunity to share any known schedule conflicts to help guide practice planning.
Referees
What are the primary responsibilities for the referees?
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Officiate youth basketball games from 3rd to 8th grade boys and girls using appropriate signals and mechanics to ensure game rules are observed
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Maintain score book and keep event times, including elapsed time during game segments, starting or stopping play when necessary
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Keep crowd and game under control so everyone has a good time
Who is eligible to apply to be a referee?
9th through 12th grade high school students (CCOP Alumni and Pleasanton residence are given priority).
Will training be provided to referees?
Yes, training will be provided and mandatory for all selected referees
When does the season start and end?
Referee season starts as early as October and typically runs through mid February.
What are the working hours?
Games are on Sundays and typically run from noon - 5pm. Referees are required to arrive 15 minutes prior to their first scheduled game.
Do you need to apply for the upcoming season if you were a referee last season?
Yes, all interested individuals must apply for the upcoming season.
How are referees compensated?
Referees will receive cash stipend for each game they work.
Please contact your Referee Coordinator for details.
Where are games held?
Games are held in the Pleasanton area.
What are the requirements to be considered to be a Crew Captain?
Crew Captains are expected to manage time and performance for crew members in addition to performing referee responsibilities. They should be mature individuals with prior referee experience and/or team management skills
Coaches
How can I become a coach for the CYO basketball league?
We welcome individuals with a passion for basketball and mentoring young athletes to join our coaching staff. To become a coach, please visit our website and complete the coaching registration form. CYO requires background checks and certifications depending on league policies.
What qualifications or experience do I need to become a coach?
While prior coaching experience is preferred, it is not mandatory. We value individuals who are committed to positive player development, promoting sportsmanship, and creating a supportive team environment. We may provide coaching resources and training opportunities to support your growth as a coach.
Can I coach my child's team?
Yes, you can coach your child's team if desired. We understand the importance of family involvement and the benefits it can bring. However, we encourage coaches to maintain fairness and provide equal opportunities to all players on the team.
How can I effectively communicate with parents and players?
Clear and consistent communication is vital. We recommend holding a pre-season meeting to discuss team expectations, practice and game schedules, and any league-specific guidelines. Additionally, you have free access to the TeamSnap app that you can leverage to help set practice schedules, game schedules and communicate with parents.