For starters, Yorkville Youth Athletic Association gives kids options. Lots of them. The organization is a large, well-oiled machine, powered by parent volunteers and a staff of full-time and part-time employees. The sports programs include baseball, basketball, flag football, tackle football, dodgeball, hockey, lacrosse, soccer, and tennis. Many of the sports are offered for three seasons, so your can kids can stay active year-round. Sports are available to kids in grades Pre-K through 12 and at all different skill levels: Recreational, in-house competition coached by parent volunteers; Developmental, a program focused on skills development and taught by professional coaches (like World Series Champion John Rodriguez); and Travel, teams that compete against other teams in the tri-state area and are led by professional coaches. YYAA also offers a theater program for budding thespians and an After School Sports Program at several area schools.

Despite its size, Yorkville manages to maintain a grassroots vibe and strives to create a sense of community for families. In fact, the organization’s slogan is “Competition, Camaraderie, Community,” and Executive Director Arlene Virga hopes to make Yorkville "the place that makes New York City – a very big place – a very small place." Parents are encouraged to get involved as coaches for the recreational teams, and kids could potentially play together for years, especially if they get involved at a young age. They can even celebrate their birthdays with YYAA, which is quite convenient, since their teammates are likely among their best friends.

For many of us, cost is an important factor when choosing activities for our kids. YYAA is a non-profit organization on a mission to give all NYC kids opportunities to have fun playing sports. The cost of its programs is intentionally kept low – among the lowest in the city – so that more kids can participate. Financial aid and scholarships are also available. 

Whatever YYAA sports or performing arts program they choose, kids become part of a team and part of a community. They develop new skills and learn about integrity and good sportsmanship. Most importantly, they have a great time.

This post is sponsored by Yorkville Youth Athletic Association