Why YMCA Sports
Why YMCA Sports?
Life skill development, like confidence, perseverance and teamwork, are key components in youth sports programs at the Y—they help build strong kids and effective changemakers!
The YMCA is a leader in offering quality youth sports programs; programs that discourage winning at all costs and instead encourage fun, participation, skill development, fitness, teamwork, fair play, and family involvement. More specifically, the goals of the YMCA sports programs are to: build self-esteem; teach social skills—values, communication, human relations; to teach physical skills, fitness, and health; to develop responsibility and decision-making skills; to enhance leadership skills in youth and adults; to build relationships among peers and between parent and child; to support and strengthen family life; and to create fun experiences for children and their family.
SEVEN PILLARS OF YMCA YOUTH SPORTS
I. Everyone Plays
We do not use tryouts to select the best players, nor do we cut kids from YMCA Youth Sports. During the season everyone receives equal practice time and plays at least half of every game. As part of a team, everyone contributes to the team’s success.
II. SAFETY FIRST
Although children may get hurt playing sports, we do all we can to prevent injuries. We’ve modified each sport to make them safer and more enjoyable to play.
III. Fair Play
Fair play is about playing by the rules and following the traditions of the game. It’s about coaches being role models of good sporting behavior and guiding their players to do the same.
IV. POSITIVE COMPETITION
We believe competition is a positive process when the pursuit of victory is kept in the right perspective. The right perspective is when adults first make decisions that are in the best interest of the athletes participating and then decisions that help win the contest.
V. FAMILY INVOLVEMENT
YMCA Youth Sports encourages parents to be appropriately involved in their child’s participation in our sports programs. In addition to parents helping as volunteer instructors, coaches, officials and timekeepers, we encourage their presence at practices and games to support their child’s participation.
VI. SPORT FOR ALL
YMCA Youth Sports is an “inclusive” sport program. That means that youngsters who differ in various characteristics are to be included rather than excluded from participation.
VII. SPORT FOR FUN
Sports are naturally fun for most kids. They love the challenge of mastering the skills of a game, playing with their friends and competing with their peers. Remember, YMCA Youth Sports are for the kids; let them have fun!