FCC Youth
Basketball

A basketball program for 3rd-7th graders focused on skill-development, teamwork, and fun!

About

We are so excited to offer a youth basketball program for third through seventh graders!

A Message from Our Director

I’m Anthony Liu, and I’m excited to lead a youth basketball program at First Covenant Church for third to seventh graders. In spring 2026, we are offering clinics / foundational classes for beginners from 3rd to 5th grade. We are also offering a basketball league for intermediate / advanced level players from 4th to 7th grade (Grades are general guidelines). I’ve had the privilege of coaching youth basketball for four years, starting shortly after graduating college with the University Village Basketball League in Albany, CA. In addition to my experience on the court, I’ve completed Positive Coaching Alliance workshops, which are based on Stanford University research, to ensure that I’m offering the best coaching practices. These workshops emphasize creating positive, supportive environments that help young athletes develop a love for the game.

Outside of basketball, I’ve also coached youth soccer for my son, which has helped me bring a well-rounded, inclusive approach to coaching. The values I learned through these experiences, especially the influence of Rick Sletadahl from the University Village program, inspire me every day as I strive to create a positive experience for every player in our program.

League Values

Our program is centered around core principles that promote skill development, teamwork, and fun. These values set us apart and guide everything we do:

League Parity

We believe in creating balanced teams where every player can thrive. After two weeks of pre-season evaluation, teams are divided based on skill level and physical ability. To maintain fairness throughout the season, the director may make adjustments or trades as needed. Every player receives equal playing time to ensure everyone has a chance to grow and improve in an environment in which winning is not the most important thing.

Teamwork

Basketball is a team sport, and we emphasize ball movement and teamwork. For example, if a player makes a pass but doesn’t move to a new spot, it’s considered a turnover. The same goes for excessive dribbling, which will be an automatic turnover. While this might feel like a challenge at first, these rules are designed to help players develop better teamwork, especially for those who are newer to the game. We also don’t allow double teaming unless the player is inside the paint—another way to encourage fair play and inclusivity.
This approach has measurably helped players improve, transitioning from clumping together to moving with purpose and working as a true team.

Director's Role

As the director, I am not only the coach but also the referee. This allows me to make decisions that keep the best interests of the players and league at the forefront, maintaining consistency and fairness across the season.

Positive Reinforcement

After every game, we gather for a special “Victory Circle,” where players and coaches highlight the positive moments from the game. This time of positive reinforcement and peer recognition helps build confidence, morale, and a sense of community.

Coaches

Daniel Carvalho

I’m Daniel Carvalho, and I’m looking forward to being a volunteer coach for this basketball program. I have 10 years of teaching experience – mostly as an English teacher – working with children and adults of all ages. As a high school teacher in New York City, I advised a running club and helped lead a cycling club. Throughout my life, I have played basketball recreationally, and now, alongside my three boys, I have converted from being a lifelong Lakers fan to a Golden State Warriors fan. I am excited to share my love for this game with the future generation through this program.

Spring 2026 FCC Youth Basketball

All sessions will be 90 minutes long. Official times will be announced by March 14 and are partially dependent upon enrollment.

March 14

March 21

March 28 - April 11

NO SESSIONS

Due to gym availability, Spring Break, and Easter.

April 18

April 25

May 2

May 9

May 16

All games will be held at the First Covenant Church Gym:
4000 Redwood Road, Oakland

Tracks & Pricing

Program Cost is $150 per player through March 7 ($170 thereafter).
Returning players who still have their jersey from last year receive a $20 discount.

FCC Basketball Foundations (Grades 3–5):

This class focuses on teaching basketball fundamentals and individual skills for beginning players. The latter portion of each session will include scrimmages and is designed to provide a lower-stress environment than the FCC Youth Basketball League.

FCC Youth Basketball League (Grades 4–7):

This league is intended for intermediate and advanced players and emphasizes team concepts, skill development, and game play.

Register Here

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this league co-ed?

Do you need to follow a certain faith to join the basketball league?

Scholarships are available based on financial need. How can I determine if I qualify?

Questions?

Contact Us

FCC YouthBasketball