Sports Teams
In all Y Sports your kids learn skills, sportsmanship, teamwork & fair play.
Basketball
Youth Basketball is a YMCA specialty. After all, the Y invented the sport just down the road back in 1892. In the 2006-07 Program Year, our Y is pleased to have college player and coach Angelo Thomas, our Sports Director, leading an all-new line-up of basketball leagues, tournaments and skillbuilding programs, sharing his knowledge and experience with boys and girls ages 6 to 19. From the early skills drills and scrimmages teaching new players what they need to know, to girls and boys leagues and tournaments, if your child plays the game, we’ve got the team to join. Programs will be offered through all the sessions.
Skills & Drills • Ages 8-9, 10-12
Here boys and girls familiar with the game will learn and work on shooting, passing, dribbling and teambuilding skills. Instructional only, this class prepares kids for our 16-week leagues, where players will have the opportunity to practice and play regulation games.
Skills & Drills, Games & Fun • Ages 6-9
Meeting on Saturdays in Session I and with an emphasis on FUN, this program introduces girls and boys to the FUNdamentals of basketball: shooting, passing, dribbling and teamwork.
Flag Football
Flag Football Ages 6 to 12
Our updated rules and format for Flag Football have made it easier for all children to play the game, regardless of skill level or athletic ability. This is a great way to learn the basics of football in a safe, non-competitive environment. Practices will be on Wednesdays; games on Saturdays.
Floor Hockey
Preschool Floor Hockey Ages 4 & 5
Preschool-age children will learn the fundamentals of floor hockey including shooting, puck handling, passing and goal tending. The YMCA provides standard floor hockey equipment for this program; classes are held in the Adams Studio.
Volleyball
Volleyball Skills & Drills Ages 8 to 14
Meeting on Saturday mornings, this class will teach girls and boys the fundamental skills and rules of playing volleyball, another game invented down the highway in Holyoke. Each class includes skill practice and a scrimmage game. Knee pads are recommended.
Soccer
Fall/Spring PreSchool Soccer Ages 4 & 5
In both indoor and outdoor environments (see Session schedule) preschool-age kids learn the game in a fun and stimulating environment that focuses on cooperation, teamwork and sportsmanship while challenging developing skills and building self-confidence.
Preschool Climb-and-Run Ages 3 to 5
These fun and energetic classes teach kids to play in a group and interact appropriately with one another. Each class features a warm-up game, running tag games and a 15-minute introduction to a sport – either basketball, pillo floor hockey or soccer. The second half of the class is spent bouldering on the rock-climbing wall and when kids are ready, climbing with a harness. Offered Sessions 1 through IV.
Youth Fitness
Because we know the facts, the Y is your kids’ insurance for
long-term good health!
Youth Fitness Programs
Fit for Life Boys & Girls ages 7 to 12
Setting Healthy Habits Early
| Class Times | |
|---|---|
| Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. |
| Fees | |
| Gold Family Members | $40 |
| Silver Members | $50 |
| Program Associates | $65 |
Parents: Schedule your workout during your child’s Fit for Life or Junior PFP program and reinforce the whole family’s habits!
Even one strength-training
session a week helps increase strength and muscle tone.
Youth Obesity has quadrupled in the last 25 years.
Diabetes, hypertension and other obesity-related chronic diseases are now more common in youngsters. The percentage of overweight children and adolescents is higher than at any point in history. Poor dietary habits and inactivity, partly caused by reduced school phys-ed programs and unavailable or unsafe recreational facilities, continue to make increasing youth obesity a major healthcare challenge for the 21st century.
When you consider these facts and their long-term implications, you’ll want to be sure your child is here at the Y, a safe, fun and dedicated community organization dedicated to keeping Franklin County’s youth active, nutritionally aware and physically fit, for the best of health now and into the future. Today's youth are the most inactive generation in history; help your kids learn to reverse this trend over the next 25 years.
| Increase in Obesity Prevalence (%) Among U.S. Children (Ages 6 to 11) | ||
| Years | Boys | Girls |
| 1999 to 2000 | 16 | 14.5 |
| 1998 to 1994 | 11.6 | 11 |
| 1971 to 1974 | 4.3 | 3.6 |
| Increase in Obesity Prevalence (%) Among U.S. Adolescents (Ages 12 to 19) | ||
| Years | Boys | Girls |
| 1999 to 2000 | 15.5 | 15.5 |
| 1988 to 1994 | 11.3 | 9.7 |
| 1971-1974 | 6.1 | 6.2 |
Source: CDC, National Center for Health Statistics, National Health and Nutrition
Examination Survey. Ogden et. al. JAMA. 2002;288:1728-1732.
Junior PFP
The most comprehensive kids’ weight-loss program in Western Mass
This brand-new 12-week program is for the out-of-shape or overweight boy or girl who wants to establish a healthier lifestyle with better fitness and eating habits. The program starts with a one-on-one consultation with Sports Director Angelo Thomas which will be used to plan goals and objectives as well as discuss barriers to exercising. At Stage 1 (Weeks 1-4) kids will start in the gym with warm-ups, stretching, rigorous walking and cool-down techniques; proceed to a short health-oriented discussion and then have a choice to learn by watching in the Kid-Fit Center or enjoy Game Room activities. Stage 2 (Weeks 5-8) follows a similar plan, with kids now adding a four-machine Kid-Fit workout, for which they are trained at the end of Stage 1. Stage 3 (Weeks 9-12) begins with the introduction of the last five strength-training machines and follows the basic class schedule noted above, with participants utilizing all nine machines in the Kid-Fit Center. Over the course of the program, participants will receive incentive prizes for completing each stage. Upon completion, each child will earn a Junior PFP T-shirt. This high-quality program also includes two 30-minute parent meetings with a nutritionist, a 30-minute session with a dental hygienist (parents & kids), a 30-minute parent meeting with YMCA Physical Director Dawn Dorsey, two FREE cooking classes/meals catered by organic chef and restaurateur Craig White, and 12 FREE passes to Y-Family Night, which includes swimming and gymnastics activities. Parent sessions will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.; meals will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
| Dates & Times | Ongoing from September 6 |
Sign up any time through the Program Year! |
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| Wednesdays & Fridays | 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. |
Fees |
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| Gold Family Members | $120 |
| Silver Members | $130 |
| Program Associates | $143 |
Consultations with Angelo should be scheduled at the Front Desk
before your child’s 12 weeks begin.
The Kid-Fit Center
...the Only Fitness Center in Western Mass Just for Kids 7-12!
The Kid-Fit Center is where your children learn to exercise with proper instruction to ensure safe strength and aerobic gains. Once they learn how to use the equipment, they participate in motivating timed rotations; after completing a workout card (36 sessions), they earn a Kid-Fit t-shirt. With youth-sized equipment, Kid-Fit is the perfect place for your children to exercise while you work out in other parts of the Y. The Kid-Fit Center is free with a Youth Membership; training appointments are made at the Front Desk.
Staff-Supervised Times: Staff members conduct training appointments with and supervise your children. It is mandatory for all children using the Kid-Fit Center to complete training on the equipment.
Parent-Supervised Times: During Y-Family Fun parent-supervised hours, 11- to 14-year-olds who have completed training and have instructor approval may use the Kid-Fit Center without a parent present. Kids ages 7 to 10 who have completed training may use the Center but only with a certified parent present. Family Membership is required to participate.
Note: Kid-Fit has a room limit of 16 |
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| Staff Supervised | M-W-F: 3:30 to 6 p.m. |
| Y-Family Fun - Parent Supervised | M-W-F: 6 to 8 p.m. |
Other Parent-Supervised & Open Times: |
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| Saturdays | Sept. 10-Oct. 29 & May 6-June 17: Nov. 5-Apr. 29: 9.a.m. to 4 p.m. |
| Sundays | Nov. 6-Apr. 9: 12 to 4 p.m. |
Rock Wall
Fun and challenging strength training
The rock-climbing wall in our Gymnasium is a fun and safe environment in which to learn the strength- and stamina-building sport of rock climbing. During the eight-week session of classes, climbers learn four basic knots, personal safety guidelines, climbing techniques and fundamental skills, in addition to communication and trust that enhances personal growth. With both challenge and fun, this is a great way for everyone to strength train. Classes are offered during Sessions II, III and IV.
| Days/Times | Mondays | 5 to 6 p.m. |
| Fees: | Gold Family Members | $48 |
| Silver Members | $53 | |
| Program Associates | $68 |
Family Rock Climbing Every Friday and during 2nd Saturday Family Fun events (from October to April) the Climbing Wall is available for Family Members to climb together. No certification is necessary. This is a fun way to spend some quality time doing an activity everyone can enjoy at their own level. The challenge and fun of climbing different sections of the wall as well as the motivation and esteem-building that come from parents supporting and encouraging their children’s developmental abilities make this the perfect Y-Family activity. Join us on Fridays and 2nd Saturdays in October, December, February and April in the gymnasium from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and have some climbing fun!
Adult Rock Climbing Lessons
Private lessons with a certified instructor are available upon request for YMCA Members. Appointments can be scheduled at the Front Desk and the cost is $20 per lesson.
Homeschoolers Climbing Class
This new class is offered for home-schooled children looking to fulfill a gym/physical education activity requirement. Our instructor will teach all the basics of indoor climbing. Classes are offered during Sessions 1 through IV.
| Days/Times | Fridays | 2 to 3 p.m. |
| Fees: | Gold Family Members | $34 |
| Silver Members | $40 | |
| Program Associates | $53 |
Everyone should strength
train two or three days a week
to maintain muscle, bone density and body weight.
Rock-Climbing Wall Schedule of Activities |
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| Monday | 5 to 6 p.m. | Climbing Wall Classes Ages 7-15 |
| Friday | 6:30 to 8 p.m. | Y-Time Family Climb (October to May) |
| Saturday | 5 to 6 p.m. | Climbing Wall Birthday Parties |
| 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. | Family Rock Climbing | |
| 2nd Saturdays (Oct/Dec/Feb/Apr) | ||
Youth Sports Leagues
Y Sports programs are appropriately designed for each age group.
Basketball
Pre-Season High School Boys’ League
Here’s a great opportunity for teams to develop their team-strategizing skills and play among strong competition. Designed for varsity-level play, this league will feature the area’s best high school talent. Games will be played on Sundays with certified referees.
Pre-Season High School Girl’ League
A brand new offering at the Y to help girls’ teams develop their strategizing skills and play among strong competition. Designed for varsity-level play, this league will also feature the area’s best high school talent. Games will be played on Saturdays with certified referees.
Youth Basketball League • Ages 6-7
Playing Saturday mornings for 16 weeks, girls and boys will continue learning fundamentals through drills, demonstrations, instruction and games. This is perfect for the child who wants to have fun while learning and playing lots of basketball.
Youth Basketball League • Ages 8-9, 10-12
For the boys and girls who want to further their skills through active practice and develop playing styles in competitive games, this instructional/recreational league is for boys and girls who are getting serious about the game. Over the course of the 16 weeks players will have one weekly practices and Saturday regulation games.
Spring High School Boys’ League
For the serious high school player who wants to sharpen skills, learn fundamentals and play regulation games. Over the course of 8 weeks, players have practice and one game each week with top-notch coaching.
Leonard Kramer Invitational Tournament
This tourney is for 5th/6th graders and 7th/8th graders who want to play against the Northeast’s finest. This end-of-the-year tournament will match teams from all over New England so players can see what’s out there. Certified referees will call games. If you think your team has a chance to win this first-annual tournament, sign up!
Basketball fees may vary. Check Session Schedule.
Soccer
Fall & Spring Soccer Leagues • Ages 6 to 8 and 9 to 12
This league meets Tuesdays and Thursdays to teach and reinforce basic kicking, passing and dribbling skills to younger and newer players, while coaching advanced players to bring their skills to the next level, learning defensive and offensive strategies as well as advanced passing and dribbling techniques.
Fall/Spring PreSchool Soccer Ages 4 & 5
In both indoor and outdoor environments (see Session schedule) preschool-age kids learn the game in a fun and stimulating environment that focuses on cooperation, teamwork and sportsmanship while challenging developing skills and building self-confidence.
Adult Sports
Basketball, Volleyball, Golf, Lap Swimming and more
keep adults “in the Game.”
Men’s Basketball League
Mondays, 6 to 9 p.m.
A continuation of our successful summer league, this winter league will feature the area’s best former high school and college stars. The 10-game regular season will be called by certified referees; the top four teams will advance to playoffs in the spring.
Dates: December 4 to March 5 Fee: $650 per team
Adult Volleyball Nights
Wednesdays, 6:15 to 9:30 p.m.
On Wednesday nights adults have the opportunity to “play” with their peers in fun, invigorating volleyball games that challenge all levels of skill. Take some time for your own sports night to enjoy this favorite of recreational pastimes.
Sessions II - IV: 6:15 to 9:30 p.m.
Golf Conditioning
“Swing into Spring” with our pre-season Golf Conditioning program. These sport-specific conditioning classes will focus on the functional aspects of warm-up, stretching, range of motion, muscle strengthening and endurance. Also included are a Saturday morning skills and drills practical session with a golf professional. Call the Front Desk at 773-3646 after the New Year for more information.
Adult Recreational Gym Schedule |
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| Monday, Wednesday, & Friday | 6 to 9:55 a.m. | Open |
| Mondays Only | 6 to 9:20 p.m. | Adult Open |
| Monday, Tuesday, & Friday | 12 to 2 p.m. | Adult Open |
| Tuesday & Thursday | 6 to 8:55 a .m. 8 to 9:20 p.m. |
Adult Open HS/Adult (15+) Open |
| Wednesday | 6 to 9:30 p.m. | Rec Night |
| Friday | 8 to 8:50 p.m. | HS/Adult (15+) Open |
| Saturday | 5 to 6 p.m. | 1/2 Cross Court BB |
| Sunday (Nov. 6-Apr. 9) | 4 to 5:50 p.m. | Open BB |
Note: Six Sundays a Year the Gym is closed for Gymnastics Meets. Check at the Front Desk for Schedule. All posted hours are subject to change. |
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Adult Lap Swims
Take some time out of your day for a great workout in the pool. We have lots of adult lap swim times. Check our schedule!
Fast Track 28-Minute Workout
If you’re short on time but need a regular strength-training and aerobic program, try the Fast Track class!
Rock-Climbing Lessons
Learn to climb or improve your climbing skills.
Check out our climbing information!
Sports Season Schedule
Recreational Gymnasium Schedule for Youth Activities |
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(Elementary, Middle & High School) |
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E-Elementary, M-Middle School, H-High School, A-Adult, BB-Basketball |
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Monday through Friday |
2:30 to 5 p.m. | Open Basketball (E,M,H) |
| Tuesday & Thursday | 8 to 9:20 p.m. | Open (H,A) |
| Friday | 6 to 7:30 p.m. 8 to 8:50 p.m. |
BB (M) Open BB (H,A) |
| Saturday | 2 to 4 p.m. 4 to 6 p.m. 7 to 9:30 p.m. |
BB (E,M) BB (H) Y-Nights (M) |
| Sunday | 12 to 3:30 p.m. 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. 4:30 to 5:50 p.m. |
Open Gym (G-6+) Parent-Supervised Family Fun Open Gym (H,A) |
(Note the Gym is closed six Sundays a year for Gymnastics Meets. See Front Desk for Schedule) |
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