Skip to main content
Building Character and Confidence: Why Youth Sports at the YMCA Go Beyond the Game

We believe that youth sports are about so much more than just the game. That's why our Youth Sports programs are based on the YMCA's "Everybody Plays, Everybody Wins!" philosophy. We understand that every child is unique and has their own strengths and abilities, and we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all children to learn and grow through sports.

Our programs use a child-appropriate curriculum that is sensitive to the needs and abilities of each individual participant. We know that every child learns and develops at their own pace, and we strive to create a supportive and encouraging atmosphere for them to do so. Our coaches are often volunteers, including many parents, who are dedicated to creating a positive and nurturing environment for young athletes.

At the Buckeye Valley Family YMCA, we prioritize teaching values and character development. Our coaches emphasize teamwork, cooperation, and sportsmanship above all else. We believe that these are important skills that will not only benefit our players on the field, but also in their everyday lives. We want to help shape the leaders of tomorrow, and we believe that starts with instilling good values and building strong character today.

Some of our most popular youth programs include basketball and volleyball, both of which were actually invented by the YMCA. These programs focus on developing skills, coordination, and a love for the game, but above all, we make sure that every child has the opportunity to participate. We believe that by including everyone we can create a sense of belonging and promote a positive and inclusive community.

We also offer progressive gymnastics, which allows children to build strength, flexibility, and confidence as they progress through different levels. Our coaches guide players through drills and games that not only help them improve their skills, but also foster a love for the sport and a sense of camaraderie among teammates.

What sets us apart from other youth sports programs in Licking County and Muskingum County Ohio is our focus on character development. We believe that what happens off the field is just as important as what happens on the field. That's why we incorporate our core values - caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility - into every aspect of our programs. We want children to not only excel in sports, but also in life.

We understand that finding safe and fun activities for children during their free time can be a challenge for parents. That's why we offer a variety of youth programs that not only keep children physically active, but also provide them with caring adult mentors and a sense of community. We believe that by filling their free time with positive activities, we can help children develop into well-rounded individuals who are confident, compassionate, and capable of achieving their full potential.

At your Buckeye Valley Family YMCA, youth sports are about more than just the game. Our "Everybody Plays, Everybody Wins!" philosophy, child-appropriate curriculum, and focus on character development set us apart from other youth sports programs. We invite you to join us and fill your child's free hours with safe, fun activities around caring adults at the YMCA. We are confident that your child will not only have a great time playing sports, but also learn important values and skills that will benefit them for a lifetime.