Southern Maryland Youth Basketball Spartans Set March 21–22 Tryouts, 17U Team Goes National

ST. MARY’S CITY, Md. — The Southern Maryland Youth Basketball Organization (SMYBO) Spartans is preparing to take the court for a new season, with tryouts set for March 21–22 at St. Mary’s College of Maryland — and this year, the stakes are even higher.

The SMYBO Spartans are building toward what leaders describe as both a competitive and character-driven season, highlighted by the 17U team’s upcoming participation in the Uncle Drew Circuit.

A Program Built On Character

In an interview with The BayNet, Vice President and Assistant Coach Adam Hampshire said the foundation of the program goes far beyond the scoreboard.

“Basketball may open the door, but character is what walks out,” Hampshire said. “While the game is what brings these young men into the gym, who they become through the experience is what matters most to us.”

Hampshire emphasized that the organization focuses intentionally on growth off the court as much as on it.

“We care deeply about how they show up in school, how they treat others, and how they respond when things get difficult. We talk intentionally about accountability, leadership and representing your family and your community the right way. That’s part of our culture,” he said.

“Winning matters and we absolutely work to compete at a high level but growth is the real scoreboard. If a player leaves our program more confident, more disciplined and more respectful than when he arrived, then we’ve accomplished something meaningful.”

17U Team Steps Onto A Bigger Stage

That philosophy will be tested this season as the 17U Spartans compete on the Uncle Drew Circuit, a move Hampshire said will challenge players in meaningful ways.

“Competing on this circuit challenges our players in all the right ways,” he said. “From a basketball standpoint, they’ll face high-level talent that pushes their skill development, decision-making and consistency. When you compete against strong competition, your standard rises and that’s where real growth happens.”

The opportunity extends beyond competition, Hampshire said, noting that competing on a national stage helps players grow both on and off the court.

Traveling to events across the country builds maturity and accountability, he explained, while also teaching players how to adapt, stay disciplined and represent St. Mary’s County with confidence.

“This level of competition also provides exposure to college coaches and programs who attend these events looking for talent,” Hampshire said. “While nothing is guaranteed, simply being seen in those spaces can open doors and start conversations that might not otherwise happen for locally based athletes.”

The 17U team is scheduled to travel to Dallas, Texas, on May 1–2; Las Vegas, Nevada, on July 9–12; and Manalapan, New Jersey, on July 16–19.

Hampshire said the opportunity not only benefits individual athletes but also raises visibility for the region as a whole, creating pathways for future players.

“At the end of the day, we want them to leave this experience not only as better players, but as more confident young men who understand that their ceiling is higher than they may have once believed.”

Leadership for the SMYBO Spartans includes Mike Boyle, president of SMYBO, who served as a St. Mary’s high school basketball coach for approximately 12 years. Vice President and Assistant Coach Adam Hampshire, who serves as the primary program contact for donors and sponsors. 17U Head Coach Chanda Norton, who has more than 30 years of experience training young athletes. 16U Head Coach Ty Herbert, who is a former high school and collegiate basketball player with a deep understanding of today’s game, allowing him to connect effortlessly with athletes. He brings energy, a focus on skill development, and a player-first mindset.

Tryouts Focus On Heart And Work Ethic

As tryouts approach, Hampshire said the coaching staff is looking for more than talent.

“We are excited to see who shows up with heart, grit and a genuine hunger to compete,” he said. “You can feel it when a player truly wants the opportunity it shows in their energy, their competitiveness and their willingness to be coached.”

“We’re building something special, and we’re looking for players who are ready to work for it. Not just the most talented, but the ones who dive on the floor, encourage their teammates and stay after to get extra shots up.”

“That mindset of discipline, effort and team-first attitude is what creates growth. And ultimately, that’s what we’re trying to cultivate in this program.”

A Partnership With Families

Hampshire also acknowledged the role families play in the program’s success.

“We don’t take lightly the trust parents place in us when they allow their sons to be part of our program. We understand how important that decision is, and we respect it,” he said.

“Our promise is simple: your child will be challenged, supported and held to a high standard both on and off the court. We believe in clear communication, structure and creating an environment where young men can grow with confidence, accountability and pride.”

“We also view this as a partnership with families. When coaches and parents work together, young athletes thrive.”

“If you’re looking for a program that values development, character and long-term growth alongside competitive basketball, we would be honored to have your family join us.”

Tryouts for the SMYBO Spartans will be held March 21–22 at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, and you can pre-register here.

Email: SMYBO.Spartans@gmail.com
Follow SMYBO on Facebook and Instagram.
Website: https://smybospartans4.wixsite.com/home

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