Youth Sports at the Denver YMCA

At the Denver YMCA, youth sports are about more than the final score. Our programs help kids build confidence, make friends, learn teamwork and develop skills that last far beyond the season.

With programs for kids ages 3–14, the Y offers a welcoming place for every child — from first-time players to growing athletes. Whether your child is learning how to dribble, pass, kick, run, jump or cheer on a teammate, our coaches focus on fun, fundamentals and character development.

Financial assistance is available, so every child has the opportunity to play, grow and belong.

Why Choose Denver YMCA Youth Sports?

Every Kid Plays

At the Y, every child gets the chance to participate. Our programs are designed for all skill levels, with a focus on learning, encouragement and positive coaching.

Skills Beyond the Game

Kids learn more than sports fundamentals. They build confidence, teamwork, leadership, resilience and respect — lessons that help them in school, at home and in life.

A Place to Belong

Youth sports at the Y help children connect with caring coaches, supportive teammates and a community that cheers them on.

Programs for All Ages and Stages

From preschool sports to leagues and academies and camps for older kids, the Denver YMCA offers sports options that grow with your child.

Youth Sports Programs

Basketball

Denver YMCA basketball programs help kids learn passing, shooting, dribbling, defense and teamwork in a positive, supportive environment.

Available options may include:
Basketball leagues, basketball camps and skill-building programs.

Soccer

The YMCA of Metro Denver is proud to partner with MLS GO, Major League Soccer’s official recreational youth soccer program. YMCA soccer introduces kids to the fundamentals of the game while encouraging movement, teamwork and fun.

Kids learn:
Dribbling, passing, shooting, field awareness and good sportsmanship.

Flag Football

YMCA NFL flag football helps kids build speed, coordination, confidence and teamwork without tackle contact.

Programs may include:
Flag football leagues and NFL Flag Football Training Camp.

Volleyball

Youth volleyball at the Y helps kids learn serving, passing, setting, teamwork and communication.

Baseball

YMCA baseball programs introduce kids to throwing, catching, batting, running bases and working together as a team.

NinjaZone

NinjaZone combines gymnastics, obstacle training, movement and confidence-building in a high-energy program kids love.

Great for:
Kids who love climbing, jumping, rolling, balancing and moving.

Sports of All Sorts

For younger children, Sports of All Sorts introduces preschoolers to movement, coordination and early sports skills in a fun, age-appropriate way.

Kickball and Seasonal Sports

The Denver YMCA may also offer seasonal sports and specialty programs such as kickball, clinics and camps.

Youth Sports by Age

Ages 3–5

Preschool sports introduce young children to movement, listening, teamwork and basic sports skills through fun games and activities.

Great options may include:
Sports of All Sorts, soccer, basketball basics and NinjaZone.

Ages 6–8

Kids begin building sport-specific skills while learning teamwork, confidence and the joy of playing with others.

Great options may include:
Basketball, soccer, flag football, baseball, volleyball and NinjaZone.

Ages 9–14

Older kids continue developing skills, leadership, resilience and sportsmanship through leagues, camps and team-based play.

Great options may include:
Basketball, flag football, volleyball, soccer, baseball and specialty camps.

Youth Sports Locations

Arvada

Youth sports programs in Arvada may include basketball, soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, NinjaZone and seasonal sports programs for kids.

Aurora

Aurora youth sports may include basketball, soccer, flag football, Sports of All Sorts, NinjaZone and seasonal programs for preschoolers and school-age kids.

Littleton

Littleton youth sports programs may include basketball, soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball and camps focused on skill-building and fun.

Southwest Denver

Southwest youth sports may include basketball, soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, NinjaZone and programs that help kids stay active, confident and connected.

University Hills

University Hills youth sports may include basketball, soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, NinjaZone and other seasonal youth programs.

Youth Sports Camps

When school is out, YMCA youth sports camps help kids stay active, build skills and have fun with friends. Camps may focus on a specific sport, such as basketball or flag football, or include a mix of games, movement and team-building activities.

Youth sports camps are great for kids who want to:
Learn a new sport, improve skills, stay active, make friends and build confidence.

What Kids Learn Through YMCA Sports

Youth sports at the Denver YMCA support the whole child. Through practices, games and camps, kids learn how to:

• Work as a team

• Try new things

• Build confidence

• Practice leadership

• Handle challenges

• Celebrate effort

• Encourage others

• Show respect

• Keep going after setbacks

• Have fun while staying active

Financial Assistance

The Denver YMCA believes every child should have the opportunity to play. Financial assistance and scholarships may be available for youth sports programs, helping families access programs regardless of income.

Families can apply for financial assistance before registering for a program.