At the YMCA, we know that sports are about so much more than the game — they’re about building character, confidence, and lifelong skills. As the nation’s leading youth sports provider, the Y proudly serves over 1 million kids each year, helping them stay active, make friends, and thrive. In fact, the Y is where iconic sports like basketball, volleyball, and racquetball were invented!

When your child joins Y Sports, they become part of a recreational community where play meets purpose. Guided by our commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, we create an environment where kids can grow on and off the court. With expert coaches, meaningful experiences, and a legacy you can trust — you can feel confident knowing your child belongs at the Y!

Why Choose Y Sports

Y Sports offers more than just games — we provide meaningful experiences that help children thrive physically, mentally, and socially.

Benefits for Your Child: 

• Physical Health: Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to support healthy growth and prevent obesity in school-age children.
• Mental Health: Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce stress and strengthen a child’s resilience.
• Social Growth: Participating in youth sports can enhance cooperation and communication skills.
• Academic Growth: Active youth often demonstrate improved focus and academic achievement in school and beyond.
• Community Impact: Increasing youth sports participation in communities can lead to significant healthcare savings, improved productivity, and healthier, longer lives for millions.

The Y Sports Difference: 

• Recreational & Inclusive: Everyone is welcome at the Y, and everyone plays! Our sports programs support beginners and help intermediate players grow while expanding their skills. We emphasize teamwork, cooperation, and non-elimination activities while focusing on skill development, sportsmanship, and values.

• Values-Based: We focus on building character, leadership, curiosity, community spirit, and healthy habits.

• Expert Coaches: Our experienced, professional coaches are positive role models trained in youth development and sports. Meet our Y Sports staff here.

• Skill Building: Our programs build foundational, age-appropriate sports skills that grow with your child. Preschool Tiny Tot Sports include warm-ups, character-building, skill development, and fun games, while our basketball programs for elementary and middle schoolers follow the Jr. NBA instructional curriculum, focusing on skill progression and teamwork.

• Convenient: Our sports programs offer predictable schedules to fit your busy life, on-site babysitting in our Kids Club for Family Membership holders (view hours here) and financial assistance for eligible households.

• Safe & Supportive: We prioritize safety and creating a positive environment for every child, from facilities and activity design to child abuse prevention and CPR/first aid.

• Family-Friendly: We value strong relationships with parents and offer fun activities that include the whole family. Our youngest players especially love parent-participation events like races!

• Fun: Fun is at the heart of Y Sports! Kids enjoy imaginative themed sessions like outer space adventures to Paw Patrol and the ever-popular puppet sharks!

Since 1885, the McGaw YMCA has been a trusted pillar of the Evanston community, fostering growth, belonging, and transformation for youth and families. Join us to experience the Y Sports difference!