Build Confidence On and Off the Court
Did you know that basketball was invented at the Y?
Our sports staff, coaches, and volunteers encourage children to reach their full potential. Sports and recreation at the Y create a healthy outlet for children to gain new skills, learn to work as a team and connect with positive role models — all in an inclusive environment.
Skill Development
Through our program, kids learn the fundamentals and improve balance, coordination, and endurance in this fast-paced sport. Participants will practice dribbling, passing, catching, shooting, and footwork skills, as well as concepts of offense, defense, cooperation, and teamwork as a member on a team. Youth basketball teams participate in competitive games during each league session. Games are officiated by YMCA referees.
Teamwork, Confidence, and Empathy
From a young age, children need to learn and understand how to give, take turns, and share – ultimately becoming good teammates. Basketball helps young people to develop these important skills alongside helping them play to their strengths and enlisting help when needed. Basketball is an excellent technique to assist young people in enhancing their self-esteem and confidence as they develop their teamwork skills.
Resilience and Self Esteem
Through the wins and losses of playing sports, children learn that mistakes are OK, and that not everything turns out the way it’s expected. This teaches them how to bounce back from other difficulties in life. Building resilience can be a key to maintaining mental health and can serve young players well for their entire lives. Basketball can also make a young athlete feel proud of their body and what it can accomplish.
Session Dates
Registration Opens
December 13, 2023
(Closes January 7, 2024)
League Session
January 15 - March 2, 2024
Practices Start
January 15, 2024
Games Start
Saturday, January 27, 2024
(Last game March 2)
Eligibility and Pricing
Children ages 3-12 years old are eligible to play.
League divisions by age
U5: Ages 3-4
U7: Ages 5-6
U9: Ages 7-8
U11: Ages 9-10
U13: Ages 11-12
Cost Information
$85 for Y members
$170 for community members
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are games and practices?
Players participate in one practice during the week and one game each week. Games take place on Saturdays unless otherwise scheduled. U5 teams practice and games will be on Saturdays.
Bremerton Family YMCA
Practice and games at Bremerton Family Y
Haselwood Family YMCA
Practice and games at Haselwood Family Y
Gordon Family YMCA
Practices and games at Gordon Family Y
Mel Korum Family YMCA
Practices and games at Mel Korum Family Y
Lakewood Family YMCA
Practices and games at Lakewood Family Y
Morgan Family YMCA
Practices and games at Morgan Family Y
Tom Taylor Family YMCA
Practices and games at Tom Taylor Family Y
How long are practices and games?
Practices are 50 minutes to an hour. Games depend on the age division but never take more than an hour.
Is there a picture day?
Yes, your youth sports director will send out that information well in advance so you can plan accordingly.
When is the game schedule available?
The game schedule will be sent out to all participants and coaches as soon as it is completed, but no later than the first week of practices.
What are the rules?
Rule sheets will also be sent out via email prior to the season.
Are basketball shoes required?
Proper shoes are recommended for U-9, U-11, and U-13, but not required.
What gear do kids need to bring?
- Team T-shirt (provided)
- Water
What is included in the cost?
A weekly practice and six games which are played on Saturdays. Participants receive a team shirt.
Can guests come to the games?
We invite all our players to bring along friends and family to cheer them on! Please invite guests to visit after filling out a Guest Pass. All guests will need to sign a waiver upon entry. Additionally, we require all guests 16+ to present a government issued ID (driver's license). The number of viewers permitted varies by community center and game/practice location based upon capacity.