06/24/2026
Hi All 🩷💙🦈,
As our program continues to grow, we are beginning to plan for the upcoming winter basketball season and wanted to reach out early to gauge interest from families before finalizing teams and schedules.
For the 2026–2027 winter season, the Sharks are looking at offering two different pathways for players depending on interest, commitment level, and competition goals.
At this time, we are hoping to offer:
🏀 U10 Boys
🏀 U10 Girls
🏀 U12 Boys
🏀 U12 Girls
And potentially:
🏀 U14 Boys & Girls
🏀 U16 Boys &Girls
🏀 U18 Boys & Girls
if registration numbers and coaching availability allow.
🏀 Sharks Valley League Teams
Our traditional Valley League teams would continue next season for players looking for a strong local team experience focused on development, teamwork, and competition within the South Shore/Valley region.
The Valley League program would include:
• One team practice per week
• Valley League game schedule
• Jersey included
• October through March season
Estimated cost:
$450 per player
🏀 Sharks AEBL Teams
We are also exploring entering select Sharks teams into the Atlantic Elite Basketball League (AEBL) Winter League for athletes looking for an additional competitive opportunity and higher level regional play.
The AEBL pathway would include:
• One team practice per week
• Monthly AEBL showcase sessions
• Guaranteed 3 games per showcase plus playoffs
• Exhibition weekends versus MBANS teams once per month to help athletes stay game ready
• Jerseys included
• October through March season
• Teams from across Atlantic Canada
• Live stats, game film, and showcase atmosphere
Estimated cost:
$850 per player
Families considering the AEBL pathway should also understand that travel will be expected throughout the season. Showcase locations are still being finalized by the league, but current discussions have included potential events in areas such as:
• Halifax
• Truro
• The Valley
• Antigonish
• Cape Breton
As part of our planning process, we would also look at team fundraising and sponsorship opportunities to help reduce costs for families participating in the AEBL program. One of the goals of the Sharks has always been to create opportunities for athletes while keeping basketball as accessible as possible for local families.
Please note:
• Family/player travel and hotel accommodations would not be included in registration fees
• This is currently only an interest check and not a commitment
• Final team offerings will depend on registration numbers, coach availability, sponsorship opportunities, and overall interest levels
At the end of the day, our goal is to continue building opportunities for basketball players in our area while maintaining the family atmosphere and community culture that makes Sharks basketball special.
If your athlete may be interested, please reply with:
• Player name
• Age division for next season
• Which pathway they may be interested in:
Valley League
AEBL
Open to Either
The growth of basketball in our small community over the last few years has honestly been incredible to watch, and we’re excited about what the future could look like for our athletes.
Thanks everyone!
Chester Sharks Basketball
