The AEF Way
AEF Academy teaches three fundamental values to become an impact player both on and off the court: ATTITUDE, EFFORT, and FOCUS. We provide the resources necessary for complete player development while building athlete confidence to maximize their potential. No matter what grade or ability level, AEF athletes WORK HARD and GET BETTER!
CULTURE: AEF Academy takes a culture-driven approach to youth basketball that transcends wins and losses We foster teamwork and accountability, providing opportunities for athletes to build strong bonds and communicate effectively. Players learn to embrace challenges, support each other through setbacks, and celebrate individual and collective successes. This positive environment builds confidence, resilience, and a strong work ethic, qualities that extend far beyond the basketball court and contribute to every athlete’s overall personal and social development.
COACHES: Player and team development begins with the coach! In addition to being skilled and knowledgeable, AEF coaches communicate positively with our athletes, turning mistakes made into immediate learning opportunities. Our coaches are under the direct supervision of Coach Beck and are evaluated multiple times throughout each season. AEF Skills Instructors also take an active role in training our coaches, both on the practice court and on player benches, providing constructive feedback on a continual basis. All AEF coaches must pass a background screening and complete our Abuse Prevention Program prior to taking the court.
COMPETITION: AEF Academy is proud to continue our participation in the RECRUITLOOK Hoops High School and Juniors Circuits for the Spring/Summer 2025 season! RecruitLook is a full-service recruiting, scouting, and evaluative company that promotes student athletes and hosts events across the country, with an impressive record of drawing in a multitude of College Coaches at ALL division levels, both regionally and nationally! Our high school athletes who aspire to play at the collegiate level are provided the opportunities for exposure to these coaches without having to travel long distances. Our youth teams will play a competitive schedule with the opportunity to face new opponents from around the region. All teams will play in at least one out of town tournament, providing the opportunity for our players and parents to create strong bonds and lasting memories! Tournaments requiring travel are within a couple of hours typically only require one night’s hotel stay.
PRACTICES: Practice is held twice per week for 90 minutes each and begins late March. They are led by trained AEF Skills Coordinators on each court, with athletes and their coaches rotating every 30 minutes. This structure facilitates the improvement of every athlete in three areas of the game: skill work, transition principles, and specific team-time. EVERYONE LEARNS the same skills and concepts, no matter what team they are on. We promote a progressive curriculum with a strong emphasis on strengthening each athlete’s skill set, which in turn builds confidence. AEF Spring/Summer athletes can expect to dramatically increase their skill level and understanding of the game, giving them an edge over other athletes at fall tryouts.