YOUTH SPORTS
At the heart of Wabash County YMCA’s mission lies the holistic development of children, fostering their growth physically, mentally, and socially. Our youth programs, including sports, serve as platforms for nurturing essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Throughout the year, we provide opportunities for youngsters to engage in various sports activities, honing their abilities while fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
We are always on the lookout for dedicated coaches who share our passion for guiding and inspiring young athletes. If you possess the talent and enthusiasm to mentor the next generation, consider joining us in our mission to empower youth through sports.
For further details, please reach out to Mike Banta, our Director of Sport & Recreation, at 260.563.9622 ext 416 or email [email protected]. Together, let’s make a difference in the lives of our community’s youth.
BASKETBALL
Youth Basketball Program
Join Us for an Exciting 5 on 5 Youth Basketball Experience!
Our dedicated volunteer coaches will lead boys and girls through dynamic practices and games, focusing on the fundamentals of dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense. Young players will learn the basics of the game, while older players will hone their skills and perfect their techniques. Coaches will foster good sportsmanship, a love for the game, and a strong work ethic. Our Youth Basketball program emphasizes learning, having fun, and sportsmanship, rather than winning or losing.
Practice and Game Schedule:
- Age Groups: Players will practice by age group. (usually Pre-K-K, 1st-2nd, and 3rd-6th)
- Days: Games and practices will be held for 6 straight Saturdays, starting January 10th and ending February 14th.
- Schedule/team assignments: Emailed to Parents and coaches once registration has ended and teams have been finalized
Format: Players will start with a 30-minute practice session where coaches will teach them the fundamentals of passing, shooting, and game rules. Following practice, players will participate in a game against an opposing team. Coaches are encouraged to instill values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and integrity.
Times:
| Grade | Time | Ball Size | Goal height | Free throw Distance | Time Outs | Game length | Court Size |
| PreK-K | 8:30 AM- 9:45 AM | 24.5-25.5 | 8 Feet | none | 1 per half | 8-min quarters | Half |
| 1st-2nd | 10:00 AM- 11:30 AM | 27.5 | 8 Feet | none | 1 per half | 10-min quarters | Half |
| 3rd-6th | 11:45 AM- 1:15 PM | 28.5 | 9 Feet | Standard | 2 per half | 10-min quarters | Full |
Schedule subject to change based on sign-ups.
Equipment Needs:
- Athletic shorts
- Athletic shoes
- Water bottle
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/1/25 | 12/21/25 | Online / Front Desk | $ 40.00 | $ 70.00 | |
| 12/22/25 | 12/26/25 | Online / Front Desk | $ 50.00 | $ 80.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
01/10/26 - 02/14/26
|
Register Closes 12/21/2025 |
NHL STREET HOCKEY
Wabash County YMCA NHL Street Registration Description:
Get ready for an exciting season of NHL Street hockey at the Wabash County YMCA! In partnership with the NHL, we’re thrilled to offer NHL Street Hockey for grades K – 6th.
NHL Street is a youth street hockey program designed to bring the excitement and energy of hockey to communities in a way that’s casual, inclusive, and easy to join. Our focus is fun over competition, with no skates or expensive equipment required. We will provide all of your equipment for you, as well as your jerseys.
Key Features:
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No Skates, No Ice: Played in our Blue Gym here at the Wabash County YMCA.
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Affordable Gear: Lightweight sticks, soft balls or pucks, and optional goalie equipment (Depending on age group) All provided by the YMCA
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Inclusive Teams: Co-ed teams that welcome players of all backgrounds and skill levels.
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NHL Branding: Official jerseys, equipment, and support from the NHL and its teams.
Program Overview:
- Age Group: Grades K – 6th
- Skill Development: Our program emphasizes the foundational skills of hockey, teaching players the ins and outs of the game at a young age and helping them perfect their skills as they grow
- Values Emphasized: Coaches instill values such as good sportsmanship, a love of the game, and a strong work ethic in every participant
- Developmental Focus: Our emphasis is on learning, having fun, and sportsmanship, prioritizing growth over winning or losing
Practice and Game Details:
- Practice Frequency: Players will have practice sessions once or twice per week, allowing ample opportunity for skill development and team bonding
- Game Schedule: Games are held on Wednesday evenings, providing a fun and competitive atmosphere for players to showcase their skills
Gear:
- Each child will receive their own reversible jersey for games.
- Parents/guardians should purchase proper footwear (gym shoes), a mouthpiece, and shorts for their child.
Registration Information: To enroll your child in our NHL Street program, please complete the online registration form on the website. Be sure to fill out all required fields accurately to expedite the registration process.
Important Dates:
- Registration Deadline: October 26th
- Practice Start Date: Week of November 3rd
- First Game: November 12th (6 week program)
- Last Game: December 17th
If you have any questions, please contact Mike Banta @ [email protected]
Thank you!
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LATE REGISTRATION | 10/27/25 | 10/31/25 | Online / Front Desk | $ 70.00 | $ 100.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
11/12/25 - 12/17/25
|
Registration Closed |