Rockford F.I.R.E. Boys' Basketball 

At the Rockford F.I.R.E., our mission is to offer a competitive athletic experience that nurtures growth in ability, confidence, and character. Through practices, games, and shared challenges, athletes learn the value of teamwork, trust, and genuine fellowship with their teammates. While we strive to compete well, we continually remind our athletes that success is not defined by the scoreboard. What matters most is the attitude they bring, the respect they show, and the example they set. Our hope is that in every moment of competition, others will see Christ reflected in the way our athletes play, encourage one another, and carry themselves both on and off the court.

General Information and Eligibility: The F.I.R.E. boys' basketball program is a faith-based program that requires and relies on parental involvement to help support and operate the season. We are a competitive program that provides instruction and opportunity for beginner athletes as well as advanced instruction for returning experienced athletes. If your son is a newer player, we strongly recommend practicing as much as possible and taking part in camps for them to get started on the fundamentals. We adhere to the National Christian Homeschool Championship guidelines and eligibility. All athletes must be at least 51% homeschooled according to NCHC standards and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale). A player at least 10 years of age by August 1st, but not over 12 on August 1st is considered eligible to play in the 12-and-under age group. A player who is 14 (and under) on August 1st is considered eligible to play in the 14u age group. 16 years of age (and under) player on August 1st is considered eligible to play in the 16u age group. A player who is 18 (and under) on August 1st is eligible to play in the 18u age group. At the coaches' discretion, and with parent approval, players may play in a higher age group. Any student reaching the age of 19 before August 1st, shall not be eligible for participation in Rockford F.I.R.E. sports. Once a student has graduated or gone through a graduation ceremony, he/she will no longer qualify for a Rockford F.I.R.E. sports team regardless of his/her age. Any student who is under disciplinary action and transfers from a public, private, or another home school program/co-op must wait one year before he/she is eligible to participate in Rockford F.I.R.E. sports. Sports physicals are required by all players and are only good for 395 days. Player sports physicals must be submitted to the team athletic director before the player can begin practicing with their team. Parents are responsible for working with the Athletic Director to ensure their athlete meets all NCHC eligibility guidelines and requirements. Failure to comply could jeopardize the program’s standing within the NCHC conference. By registering, you confirm that you have read and understand the eligibility requirements and that your athlete meets them. 

New families interested in playing for the Rockford F.I.R.E. are required to complete our application and interview process. The application can be found on our homepage in the red navigation bar at the top of the page. Tryouts may be conducted and are implemented at the coaches' discretion. Should tryouts be implemented, they will be announced held before practices begin. If tryouts are held and an athlete is not offered a position on the team (this is rare but could happen), any fees paid toward season registration will be refunded. Players may tryout prior to completing an application but are encouraged to review eligibility requirements before proceeding.

Practices: An optional pre-season training block may be offered in September for all divisions for an additional fee. Official practices typically begin in October, and are held at Grace Reformed Baptist Church on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and (possibly) Fridays at a different location. Practice times are subject to change at the coaches' discretion. Players may tryout prior to completing an application but are encouraged to review eligibility requirements before proceeding.

12U 4:30-5:30 PM | 14U 5:30-7 PM | JV and Varsity 6:30-9 PM 

Fees: Beginning in 2026, registration and athletic fees will be combined into a single fee for all athletes. This fee cover will athlete enrollment related fees and all regular season games. Participation in regional, national, or other tournaments may require additional player fees; however, these opportunities are not guaranteed and depend on team interest and availability. Transportation, meals, and lodging (when applicable) are not included. A deposit is required at registration, with the remaining balance due at the start of the season. Late fees will apply to any balances not paid by the due date. Uniforms are provided on loan for the season at no additional cost and must be returned promptly at the end of the season to avoid replacement fees. 

Please note that the fees listed below reflect the 2025–2026 season and prior years. We are currently restructuring our fee schedule for the 2026–2027 season as we work to combine the registration and athletic fees into a single, simplified, and affordable fee for all. As always, our goal is to continue providing quality, faith-focused homeschool athletics at an affordable cost for all participating families. 

12U $200 | 14U $300 | JV $400 | Varsity $500 

Fundraising and Donations: To help keep the program affordable for families, we welcome support through donations and participation of team fundraising efforts.

12U Head Coach: Aaron Combs

14U Head Coach: Luke Jones 

JV Head Coach: Matthew Tripodi 

Varsity Head Coach: Sergio Ramos 

Boys' Basketball Athletic Director: Kelly Ramos 

Contact Information: rockfordfirebb@gmail.com 

Camp: Details are still being finalized, but please watch the website for updates regarding an upcoming skills camp for all divisions. The camp will be open to returning athletes as well as those who are eligible and interested in playing for the Rockford F.I.R.E.