TEAM COSTS
MONDO Athletics offers premium basketball training and strives to be fair at all times. We operate based on a monthly subscription model. Our research confirms that our costs, for the high quality instruction, are up to 60% less than other comparable clubs in Colorado! Dues each month for those that make a MONDO competitive team include the basics required to compete:

1. Dedicated practices led by USA Basketball Gold Licensed trainers and proven coaches.
2. ​​Game uniform or a loaner game jersey.
3. Tournaments and showcases that MONDO competitive teams will compete in.

The actual costs may vary between teams and season-to-season. 

What if My Student-Athlete Doesn't Make a Competitive Basketball Team?
If a player attends an open tryout session and does not receive an invitation to join a MONDO competitive AAU basketball team, PLEASE DO NOT GET DISCOURAGED.  Other training options may be offered, like skills training, camps or development leagues.

Remember, while games are great at TESTING a player's skill and character, skills and fundamentals training is how players make real gains.

​Travel basketball teams have become synonymous with high-level competition and the prospect of catching the eye of college scouts. The narrative suggests that by participating in out-of-state tournaments, players increase their chances of recruitment, especially by Division I programs. This belief has led many families to invest significant time and resources into extensive travel schedules.

But is it really necessary?

​Contrary to the traditional emphasis on high school athletes, current college basketball recruitment strategies have shifted focus. Coaches are now prioritizing:

​This paradigm shift indicates that simply traveling for exposure may not be as effective as it once was.

For a very small percentage of players on elite circuit teams, traveling can be beneficial—especially for those already identified as Division I prospects. But for the majority of youth players, local and regional competition, combined with skill development, will do more for their long-term growth.

​Here’s what to consider before committing to a travel team:

​While the competitive and exposure aspects of travel ball dominate the conversation, one thing that often gets overlooked is the fun side of it. For many families, summer basketball travel is more than just a grind—it's their only vacation.

​The experience of going to new cities, bonding with teammates, and creating lifelong memories is a huge part of why so many players and parents buy into the travel ball culture. Whether it’s sightseeing in a new state, chilling at the beach, team dinners, or simply staying in a hotel with friends, these experiences can make all the time and money feel worth it.

​For some families, travel ball is a family event—packing up, hitting the road, and making the most of a tournament weekend. If that’s the case, and the basketball is just one part of a bigger adventure, then travel ball can be a fantastic experience, regardless of recruitment outcomes.

​Instead of prioritizing travel, most players would benefit more from:

Travel basketball is not for everyone, and it’s certainly not the only way to develop and get noticed. Before investing in an expensive travel schedule, families should weigh the actual benefits versus the hype.

At the end of the day, skills and consistent improvement will always matter more than the number of miles traveled. But if travel ball is something a family enjoys beyond just the basketball aspect, then it may be worth it for reasons beyond recruitment alone.

Share your thoughts!

Transitioning from winter basketball to club season can be a whirlwind for parents and players alike. Whether your child plays in a winter league (8th grade and below) or is wrapping up their high school season, understanding the timeline is key to making informed decisions.

Key Dates to Keep in Mind

• Winter Hoops (8th Grade & Below): Most 2024-2025 winter youth leagues and middle school basketball seasons in Colorado wrap up around the March 1-2 weekend.
• High School Regular Season:
  • 5A/6A classifications end February 22
  • Lower classifications end March 1
  • Varsity playoffs could run through March 13-15 (Official CHSAA Calendar)
• Club Basketball Season: Typically runs March – July (sometimes early August).
• Club Tryouts: Start late February/early March, and things move quickly.

​Be Ready for Fast Decisions
Club tryouts can be competitive, and verbal invitations often come immediately and on-the-spot. While it’s exciting to receive an offer, always make sure details are clearly outlined in writing before committing. This includes team fees, tournament and showcase schedules, travel expectations, collegiate [academic AND athletic] recruitment guidance, and coaching philosophy.

Compare Your Options
With numerous clubs in the state promoting tryouts, take time to research. Refer the CHSAA postseason calendar against tryout flyers and ensure your family's schedule and priorities align.

GOOD LUCK to all parents navigating this transition—planning ahead will help ensure the best fit for your student-athlete!

When it comes to youth basketball—or any sport—understanding where a child stands in terms of skill, athleticism, and mental mindset is crucial. An evaluation is the first step in unlocking their full potential and setting them on the right development path. Whether your child dreams of playing at a competitive level or simply enjoys the game for fun, an expert evaluation provides clarity, guidance, and actionable next steps.

Why Is an Evaluation So Important?An evaluation dives into three critical aspects of an athlete’s development:

1. Skill Assessment
Skill evaluation focuses on foundational and advanced areas of the game, including:

• Ball handling and dribbling
• Shooting form and accuracy
• Passing and playmaking ability
• Defensive positioning and awareness

By identifying strengths and areas for improvement, a skilled evaluator can help your child build a strong technical foundation that fosters confidence on the court.

2. Athleticism
Athleticism is a cornerstone of basketball success. Evaluations measure key physical attributes, such as:

• Agility, balance, and mobility
• Reaction time and explosiveness
• Stamina and endurance

Competing at higher levels, from high school varsity to collegiate programs, requires exceptional athleticism. An evaluation can determine where your child stands and what areas need targeted improvement to reach their goals.

3. Mental Mindset
Basketball is as much a mental game as it is physical. Evaluations consider:

• Mental toughness and competitiveness
• Basketball IQ and game understanding
• Emotional control and ability to handle challenges
• Focus amidst external distractions like academics or other responsibilities

A strong mental mindset can separate good players from great ones. Understanding how your child handles the mental demands of the game can shape the way they train and develop.

Guidance for Parents
Parents who have played sports competitively often have a better understanding of their child’s needs, but for those new to basketball, evaluations are invaluable. They answer questions like:

• How does my child stack up in the local basketball community?
• Are they ready for a competitive team or should they start with private lessons?
• Is individual training more suitable, or would a group setting work better?
• What’s the progression for beginners?

An evaluation removes the guesswork, helping parents make informed decisions about their child’s basketball journey.

Why Choose MONDO Athletics?
At MONDO Athletics, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to reach their potential. That’s why we offer basketball evaluations year-round for kids of all ages and skill levels.

After the evaluation, a MONDO trainer/coach provides personalized recommendations tailored to your child’s current abilities and long-term goals. Whether it’s private training, group clinics, or competitive team placement, we’ll guide your family toward the most effective basketball development pathway.
​
Don’t leave your child’s growth to chance. Schedule an evaluation with MONDO Athletics today and take the first step in helping your athlete thrive on and off the court.

The journey of a high school basketball player is often marked by triumphs, challenges, and, unfortunately, disappointments. Across the United States, two disheartening trends have been present in youth basketball:  

1. Players Who Quit After Being Cut: Many players who are cut from their high school teams simply walk away from the sport, often feeling there’s no path forward.
2. A Lack of Winter Options for Non-Team Players: Those who don’t make a team—or choose not to participate in traditional high school basketball—find themselves without opportunities to develop during the critical winter months when others are competing.  

These trends not only impact the players’ development but also deprive them of the life skills basketball instills: teamwork, perseverance, and discipline.  

The MONDO Athletics Solution
Recognizing this gap, MONDO Athletics has stepped in to provide an inclusive, development-focused alternative through its Winter High School Development League (D-League). This program offers a structured, competitive environment for players who aren’t part of a high school team but are eager to refine their skills and keep their passion for basketball alive.  

What Makes the D-League Unique?

• Skills and Development Focus: Each session begins with 30-45 minutes of concentrated skills training. Players work on fundamentals, advanced techniques, and basketball IQ under the guidance of experienced coaches.  
• Game Experience: Following the skills segment, players transition into 5-on-5 games, putting what they’ve learned into practice in a competitive yet supportive environment.  
• Accessible to All: Whether a player was cut from their school team or chose a different path, the D-League welcomes them with open arms, offering a safe and constructive space to play and grow.  

Empowering Players Beyond the Court
MONDO Athletics isn’t just about basketball—it’s about giving players a chance to stay connected to the game and develop character traits that will benefit them in life. For players who may have felt sidelined, programs like the MONDO D-League provide:  

• Confidence: Through ongoing improvement and positive reinforcement.  
• Community: A sense of belonging with peers who share similar experiences.  
• Resilience: A reminder that setbacks aren’t the end—they’re opportunities to find new paths forward.  

A National Need
The trends MONDO Athletics is addressing aren’t isolated to one community—they reflect a national issue in youth sports. As participation numbers drop among players not making school teams, programs like the D-League are essential in preserving and fostering a love for the game.  

Join the Movement
The Winter High School Development League is more than just an outlet; it’s a lifeline for players who love basketball and want to keep improving. MONDO Athletics is proud to provide this platform for players to stay engaged, develop their skills, and remind everyone that basketball is for anyone willing to put in the work.  

REGISTER for the MONDO D-League >>
Contact us with any questions ahead of time.

If one considers that a young athlete can be either young or old for his/her grade, the age gap can easily become two years. The gap grows to three years in instances when students are held back in school, which unfortunately happens all too often, or when kids begin school early. Here's an analysis that shows how age gaps create challenges when youth sports divisions are based on a player's current grade.

9th Grade Division

• ​Average age: 14-15 years old
• Possible 2-year age gap:  13-16 years old

The 9th grade was chosen because the most significant "changes" in boys and girls occur during these ages. The differences in size, athletic ability, and maturity, especially in basketball players, are quite dramatic when comparing a 13-year-old athlete to one that is 16.​

• Average height and weight for 13-year-old girl:  5'1 3/4" and 102 lbs
• Average height and weight for 16-year-old girl:  5' 4" and 115 lbs
• Age gap differences for girls:  Nearly 3" and 13 lbs
• *See sources below

Here's how boys stack up:

• Average height and weight for a 13-year-old boy:  5' 1 3/4" and 102 lbs
• Average height and weight for a 16-year-old boy:  5' 7" and 132 lbs
• Age gap differences for boys:  Nearly 6" and 30 lbs
• *See sources below
  

In boys, the age gap differences in height and weight is much higher than girls. Other factors, such as top sprint speed, vertical jump, strength, and intangibles like hoops IQ, can put an athlete that's young for his grade at a huge disadvantage. Because of the possible age gap, and as this analysis confirms, youth sports divisions are best by age and never by grade. 

The truth of the matter, however, is that this won't change at the high school level. High School sports will always be based by grade. It can, however, change at the club and recreational sports levels. 

*Average height and weights stated in this analysis are based on statistics from the Centers for Disease Control.

Let's roll!

Jayden Washington
Class of 2022
6' 3" | 2.5 GPA
Eaglecrest High School, Centennial, CO

Mark Murray, Jr.
​Class of 2020
6' 5" | 3.3 GPA
Valor Christian High School, Highlands Ranch, CO

Download the full ALL EVENT TEAM below. For inquiries, Contact Us.

According to the NCAA, the probability of competing at the men's DI level is a mere 1%, out of an estimated 550,305 high school boys basketball participants.

“Senior Night” doesn't have to be the end of a player's high school career, if playing at the DI level does not come to fruition. Perhaps considering less commonly-known schools like the Castleton State Spartans (DIII) or the Dillard University Blue Devils (NAIA), are an option. 

Carrillo joins a fairly new Raptors coaching staff that is entering its second season  of rebuilding under Head Coach, Jarris Krapcha.

The Raptors won the Colorado 5A boys title in 2017 under the 16-season leadership of John Olander, who retired from coaching shortly thereafter.
​
Carrillo will coach the sophomore boys team starting with the 2018-2019 season. Prior to Eaglecrest, Carrillo was the Varsity Assistant at Denver West.