Youth Programs

Eastside Sports

Since the program's inception, over 850 community youth have participated annually in one or more of the sports programs.  Each program is structured as a "neighborhood league."  There is no cost for youth to register for the programs and parents are recruited to volunteer as coaches and team support.  A T-shift and a hat are generally provided to each youth participant.  Most children live within walking distance of their program site.  Fair play, skill development, teamwork, respect for others and community pride are emphasized over winning.  Parents and coaches encourage the youth to focus on their education, so they can become successful in the classroom and on the ball field.

The United Way plays a huge role in making this program possible.  Parents and community volunteers help make each program a success.  Volunteers play the role of coaches, referees, team "moms" and other aspects that are involved in the Eastside Youth Sports Program.

BASKETBALL CAMP: The Eastside basketball camp runs for three weeks in November (Wednesdays and Fridays.) Registrations are held in early October.

BASKETBALL: Program runs from January to March.  Registrations begin in early December.

SOCCER: Program runs from April to May. Registrations begin in late March.

BASEBALL: Program runs from June to August. Registrations begin in mid-May.

Thanks in part to the Yakima School District, we are able to facilitate practices in local schools throughout the school year and over the summer.  In providing local practice areas, we hope that everyone involved is only a few minutes away or even within walking distance from every gymnasium or ball field.

All the equipment to make every season a success is provided by the YMCA. Uniforms are alos handed out on the first game day.

Although there is no cost for any of these programs, there are some guidelines that the YMCA as well as participants must abide by.  All participants must reside on the east side of Yakima (east of 16th Avenue).  All volunteers must pass a Washing State Patrol background check.  All children must register at the YMCA on or before the scheduled registration deadline.

Please contact Ricardo Torres by phone 972-5278 or by email rtorres@yakimaymca.org for exact program dates for for futher information.