2025 AAU Season

2025 AAU TRYOUTS – THANK YOU!

We would like to extend a thank you to all the players, both new and returning, who came out for Hoop Dreamz 2025 AAU Tryouts! Your dedication and effort were truly appreciated.

We look forward to the season ahead!

The 2025 AAU season will run for 11 months, from March 2025 until February 2026 (during August teams are off).

Premier Club Program Details:

This program is only for ADVANCED and COMMITTED players
Less teams and less players per team (10 players max) will result in more playing time and more personalized attention for all members of our teams.
Involvement and direct access to Coach Billy Armstrong – former D1 and professional player, current Head Coach of Nationally Ranked Bergen Catholic High School
HD Premier membership is an 11-month commitment. Season runs from March through February with August off.
Tuition is $399 per month or paid in full with a 5% discount (financial aid available to those in need)
Incredible value that includes everything below and more!

Program Includes:

Comprehensive Player Development Program

2 weekly team practices* (see practice schedule below)
Optional weekly skills workouts with Coach Armstrong (Tuesdays in Westwood)*
*Winter season has one team practice a week and one skill workout a week (Wednesdays at Bergen Catholic)
Multiple year-round tournaments – local and two overnight
High School Teams – exposure events and guidance on college recruitment
8 free clinics throughout the year run by Billy Armstrong ($830 value)
1 free week of Crusader Summer Basketball Camp ($399 value)
Billy Armstrong’s P.H.D. program to develop skills for life – self confidence, overcoming fears, handling adversity and developing the right mindset for elite level performance and success

Highly Organized Communication

Organized scheduling
Easy to use app and team calendar
Support staff with timely communication emails and text messages, phone calls answered promptly
Upfront player and parent expectations – we pride ourselves on communication with our parents and players

Trained and Certified Coaches

Experienced and knowledgeable coaches with high-level experience at the High School and College level
Positive coaching and feedback – Coach Billy’s “No blaming, shaming, or yelling” coaching philosophy
Hoop Dreamz Trained and Certified – all coaches use and execute the “Hoop Dreamz Way” of approaching and teaching the game of basketball
Honest and transparent player feedback
Professional background checks on all staff prior to employment
All staff are CPR, First Aid and Child Safety Certified

Billy Armstrong Foundation

Our program is focused on developing the best players regardless of social or economic background. A select number of scholarships are now available through the Billy Armstrong Family Foundation for elite players as well as financial aid for families that need assistance to participate in the Hoop Dreamz program.

To inquire about scholarships or financial aid, please send an email to Lauren at [email protected]

FAQ’s

Is this the only AAU program you are offering?
Yes, this is the only AAU program we have.

What if my son does not make the team?
We have a skill development program for those who don’t make the team and it includes an opportunity to be on a team if a spot becomes available.

How many teams per grade?
Typically one team per grade is formed, however, more than one team may be formed based on the amount of competitive-level players at tryouts.

Can you play multiple sports?
We would never discourage kids to play multiple sports, but we do hope that our team is a priority especially when it comes to games.

Can you play on another AAU team?
We would discourage this and expect our players to be committed to Hoop Dreamz.

My son goes to sleep away camp in the summer can he join this program?
Yes. Modificiations will be made for the month of July for players who are away at sleep away camp.

My son can not play in the Fall season (or Winter or Spring) can he still join?
This program is meant for players who can play year round. Modifications can be made on a case by case basis.

My son will be in High School next Winter what happens then?
During the HS basketball season, our HS players will still have skill workouts which is much needed because HS coaches mainly focus on team concepts. In many cases players skills drop during the HS season because they are not getting enough reps with their individual skill development. Additional HS only clinics will also take place.

Will Hoop Dreamz help my son get recruited to play in college?
Yes. We have helped countless players get recruited. Coach Billy has many years of experience and connections to help you through the process.

What is the cost of the program?
$399 per month or payment made in full for the 11 months with a 5% discount.

Where are practices held?
Bergen Catholic HS (Oradell), Westwood Comm. Center, Zion Lutheran School (Westwood)

When are practices?
Teams will practice on Mondays and Thursdays between Bergen Catholic HS and Westwood Comm. Center. Skill sessions are held on Tuesdays at Westwood Comm. Center. Practice times will be determined once teams are formed and a final schedule can be made.

When and where are the games?
Fall, Spring and Summer seasons will include local tournaments and two overnight which are all on weekends. The Winter season all teams are entered in a local league where one weekly game is played.

Are there overnight tournaments?
Yes, all teams play in two overnight tournaments over the course of the season. One is held in early June in Wildwood. Another is held in October or November at Spooky Nook in Manheim PA.

Who coaches the team?
Teams are coached by our trained and certified Hoop Dreamz coaches. Each team has their own coach for the 11-month period, however players are exposed to all of the coaches including Billy Armstrong during the skill workouts, clinics and camps.

Trust. Care. Commitment.

Hoop Dreamz AAU is for the serious and competitive basketball player who wants to improve his or her game in every aspect. For those who are committed to the sport beyond the winter season, we offer high-level AAU programs in the fall, winter, spring, and summer based out of Bergen County, NJ. Our program’s core values are based upon T.C.C. Trust, Care, Commitment.

From mandatory tryouts to trusted teamwork and challenging tournaments, our athletes learn important skills that help them succeed both on and off the court. Hoop Dreamz AAU players build confidence through competence – as they receive the best in basketball instruction from our highly qualified and experienced staff of coaches who have competed and coached at high school and collegiate levels.

We are proud to have helped many players fulfill their “Hoop Dreamz” of playing in college. Click here to see a list of former Hoop Dreamz players who have gone on to play at the next level – all from Bergen and Rockland counties!

For more information on our AAU Program, check out AAU FAQs

What you are as a person is far more important than what you are as a basketball player.
–John Wooden

Testimonials

Thank you for a great fall season. I really noticed a significant improvement in Ben’s game. In addition to improving his overall skills I noticed a higher level of intensity and an eagerness to compete. Thank you for always encouraging him. He is looking forward to playing for you in the Winter and Spring seasons.

Adam – Closter

Thank you for such a great AAU season. Connor truly improved as a player and team member. Our coaches were great and I loved watching them interact with the team off the court. They were wonderful with the boys. Also thank you for being so organized and keeping things so updated. You run a very nice organization/program. Thank you!

Pam – Closter

We are so thankful for “HOOP DREAMZ” – and especially Billy – we are so grateful that Eric (and Greg) has learned so much from Billy and reinforced the values that they take with them when they play school team sports. Leading by example, “trust, care, commitment” – those life lessons Eric is getting from Billy and the same values his dad is teaching Greg and Eric with 54 other Boy Scouts! But when I talk to Eric about “trust” and “respect”, it’s not usually Boy Scouts that come to mind first, but “that’s what Billy teaches”!

Fong – Allendale

I know being able to train with you and to become the basketball player that I did was such an incredible opportunity, for me not just as a basketball player, but as a person in general. I always feel so lucky that I got to have those one-on-one lessons; through them and all the AAU and Hoop Dreamz leagues, I think I really learned how to be completely dedicated to something, and to never, ever give up. Again, it was such an amazing experience being able to play with you and learn from you – inspiring me much within and beyond basketball. For all that, I can only say thank you so much!

Ryan – Montvale

I also wanted to thank the coaches for their commitment and hard work. I especially want to thank Coach Billy. I, admittedly, am limited in my knowledge about basketball, but I do know when someone is inspirational and provides strong, clear, appropriately demanding guidance. Billy really pushes the boys to be the best that they can be and beyond basketball, has helped provide life lessons of right and wrong within the context of his coaching. Thanks again for a great season.

Wendy – Norwood

I wanted to personally thank you and your staff for such a great summer of basketball. There are many “Billy-ism’s” being repeated around our home (e.g., turn my weaknesses into strengths) and it just reinforces my belief that having Brendan participate in your programs is so worthwhile. Thanks again for all the energy, time and effort you put into Hoop Dreamz!

Holly – West Nyack

You have always steered me in the right direction and have always wanted the best for me. Playing basketball for you was a great experience, you were by far the best coach I’ve ever had. You’re a great role model and I just wanted to let you know that I appreciate everything you’ve done for me. If I don’t see you, have a safe and healthy summer.

Sean – River Vale

I would like you to know what your program has done for our son in just one summer. Last year, our son played for your summer AAU team. It was his first time being a part of Hoop Dreamz. In that short amount of time, he learned more than he ever did playing for an entire two seasons on travel. This past season, he played for the town rec team and they went undefeated and were featured in the local paper. He played in every single game and was a starter in a number of games. He also played for the St. Andrew’s travel team where he was a starter in every game and was chosen to represent his age group in the CYO All Stars game. The CYO season wasn’t a great one, but he didn’t care because all he cared about was being given an opportunity to play no matter the results in the end. Other parents noticed how much he has developed as a player and we’ve told ALL of them it was your program. I know part of it has to do with maturity, but a big part of it was being part of a program that allowed him to develop as player. I’ve included two pictures because the smile on his face says it all. Again…many congrats. Thanks!

Almida – Westwood

Wow, today’s win over Riverside was amazing. Billy’s coaching was the key factor! He gets these kids to play at their highest level. And, he just outright out-coaches the opponent. The play calling was magnificent. Really proud of them today. Both today and last weekend were really great displays of this 8th grade team. Thanks again for another great season. We’ll see you this week at camp. And, of course, won’t be long til we’re gearing up for Fall again.

Lori – Park Ridge

I am blown away by Billy’s enthusiasm and attention to detail during a game! He uses every teachable moment and my daughter Michaela has and will benefit greatly from it! You do a terrific job! Thank you.

Jeannie – Paramus

Billy, You did a tremendous job with the boys this season. The boys did a fabulous job and you should be very proud of what you accomplished. You and Lauren do a great job with the program and have all our confidence and support of Hoop Dreamz. We could not be prouder to have two of our children be apart of the Hoop Dreamz family. It is a excellent program and could not be happier. Caroline and Thomas have enormous respect for you and the program. We owe this exclusively to you, Lauren, and all the coaches.

Colleen & Michael – Oradell

Billy, Our boys are extremely fortunate to not only be a part of the Hoop Dreamz program but to have you as their coach. I’ve known you for a very long time and have seen you grow not only as a BB player and later as a coach but as a great kid who developed into a terrific person. They have been taught by you to stand tall and not whine or complain when things are not going their way. You should be very proud of what you have accomplished with this team and we couldn’t be more pleased with the coaching and direction Owen and all the boys are receiving this season.

Mike – Harrington Park

My wife and I are very appreciative of all your efforts, your camps and all of your basketball programs have instilled in our children and their friends. I know my three boys have benefited tremendously. These 3rd grade boys have learned so much and have played tremendously well together this entire season. I can speak for my son, who is eager to learn from your tutelage and your passion for the game. I don’t know the game, and all I can ask for and hope for is that his Basketball IQ has increased and continues to grow with every practice, game and season. You have been there for every step of the way, and again we are very appreciative that you took the time to coach this team. We have been completely satisfied as always with every spring/fall basketball season. Onward and upward with HD.

Rob – Leonia

Thanks for all the time you have taken to work with Thomas and his team. Thomas has always loved the game (even decided to drop soccer next year for it) and as we previously noted, his passion to play has grown even more since being part of your program. Thanks again.

Mike & Regina – Oradell

Billy, From the moment we heard you were coaching this team Marty, Charlie and I were thrilled for Charlie to have the oppotunity to learn from a coach of your caliber. If it wasn’t obvious already, we want you to know how much we truly appreciate all you have done this season for the development of Charlie and the team. You clearly have a genuine concern for the deveopment and success of each child you instruct. Charlie has enjoyed being part of your team and has learned so much…and we’ve enjoyed watching from the sidelines. Thanks.

Casey – Upper Saddle River

I want to start off by thanking you for a great season of basketball. Jesse has learned so much from your coaching and has enjoyed every minute, whether sitting on the bench, cheering on his teammates or on the court playing his heart out. I had no intention of putting him on a spring AAU team but I am very happy I put him on Hoop Dreamz and would love to see Jesse grow up in your program. Jesse is a kid who strives to be a better player and win games and and I can think of no better place for him to be, then working with you and Hoop Dreamz. I appreciate all your hard work with the boys I see what you do for them, in every practice and game.

Paul – Woodcliff Lake

We have been very impressed by your program from both a skills development perspective as well as sportsmanship. Outstanding in the true sense of the word. Thank you!

Jenn – Oradell

I wanted to let you know that I have nothing but praise for you and your organization. Thanks for all you do and I look forward to seeing my son play for your organization for many years to come.

Sandra – Leonia

Our son had the privilege of being on the 4th grade team this spring. We just wanted to thank you for an amazing experience. He learned so much about the game, the importance of being a good teammate, and sportsmanship. He looked forward to going to every practice and game and no matter how tired he was when he got home he would ask to go out and practice some more. We look forward to Brian and his younger brother Daniel attending the camp this summer and being involved in aau in the fall.

Kerrie & Brian – Oradell

Billy/Lauren, I want to thank you both for running an excellent program. In a day and age when parents/kids have many options for basketball, I’m very thankful for staying committed to HoopDreamz. Sal made great friends, most importantly he’s grown as a basketball player and I feel he’s ready for a good High School career. We will be looking for opportunities to play and train with Billy.

Sal & Rita – Old Tappan

Timmy, Joann and I love everything about Hoopdreamz. Playing for Billy has been the biggest highlight in Timmy’s life. Billy sets such a great example for all the kids. He teaches them all the right life lessons. Out of all the great teams Timmy has played for in Hoop Dreamz, this is a very special team that has performed beyond everyone’s expectations there is a true synergy amongst them. Thank you both for running such a fantastic program.

Jo-Ann & Dan – Haworth

Thanks for all you have done for our two boys. They had a blast and once again their teams had a very successful season. Through the year, the boys played all different levels of competition, but I found it amazing how they all realized that they learned their biggest lessons from playing teams better than them. Team Hoop Dreamz, I can tell you my boys had a great deal of fun, and during their time with you this year they became better basketball players. Billy and Mike, your are preparing them for the next level, and as a parent I couldn’t ask for anymore. God bless!

John – Upper Saddle River

Dear Lauren and Hoop Dreamz Coaches, I wanted to write a short note to thank you for another terrific season. This was Bobby’s third season with HD and he (along with the other boys) has had the privilege of being coached by three great coaches. All three have distinct coaching styles and all three teach the necessary basketball skills extremely well. But the one thing I have noticed is that Hoop Dreamz coaches place great importance on teaching the boys about sportsmanship and character. And I really believe the 4th grade boys team has been learning these lessons and applying them to every game. They have grown into selfless team players who always encourage one another and, in my opinion, always display the highest level of sportsmanship at every game. I am most proud of the fact that I’ve received numerous compliments from Bobby’s teacher this year about his determination to always show his best effort in his schoolwork, his leadership and always being the first one to offer help to a classmate. Thank you for all of your hard work in coaching the boys over the past three seasons–it is really making a difference.

Patty – Tenafly

Lauren, Coach Billy and Coach Mike, Thank you very much to all of you for making this a great season for the fifth grade boys It was a dynamic and talented group of boys, and Mark was blessed to be a part of this team. We are also grateful to the Hoop Dreamz program for offering the boys the opportunity to improve their basketball skills. But more importantly, your program affords our boys the opportunity to witness real-life examples (coaches and staff) that model the virtues of respect, responsibility and, commitment that young boys need to develop and master. Thank you again and again.

Karen – Paramus

Billy and crew: I just wanted to give you some positive feedback on the benefits of your program. I can honestly say that all of the lessons have really paid off. Michael had a breakout game and scored 16 points. He passed well and dribbled with authority and had a few steals. He had a lot of self-confidence on the court. Having had the opportunity to watch a number of your practices I could really see that all of the skills you guys have drilled into him take hold. Keep up the great work.

Evan – River Vale

I want to thank Billy, Lauren and the Hoop Dreamz team for a great season. In my opinion, the program is teaching exactly the right content, ranging from seeing the court and not being afraid of flesh-to-flesh contact to respect for coaches and parents and trust in your teammates. The boys made friends, got great coaching, improved their games and had fun. It is what youth sports is all about. The lessons I personally learned by attending every practice will be passed along to the Woodcliff Lake Travel Team this Winter. Thanks again.

Steve – Woodcliff Lake

The Hoop Dreamz program is a grand success! Billy goes beyond teaching a game. He guides the kids to become great leaders. He instills respect, strong work ethics and gratitude. He holds them accountable and truly cares! The Hoop Dreamz team/staff makes a difference! For this I am eternally grateful!

AAU Teams