INCEPTION AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS The YMCA OKC Elementary School Sports League was first envisioned in 2018, as a means to bridge the gap in sports participation caused by financial constraints and limited resources. The inaugural season finally kicked off in the spring of 2021, despite initial delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The league operates on a visionary approach, erasing the pay-to-play model and ensuring that students from grades 3 to 12 have the chance to engage in sports free of charge. Key community partners have played an integral role in making this vision a reality. The Inasmuch Foundation and McLaughlin Family Foundation provided the crucial initial funding that paved the way for the league's establishment. Cleats for Kids, a valuable partner, ensures that participants have proper footwear. The OKCPS district generously provides access to facilities and staff, Fields and Futures offers program support and resources, and the Police Athletic League (PAL) collaborates to combine running programs and create additional partnership opportunities. IMPACT AND SUCCESSES The YMCA OKC Elementary School Sports League has witnessed remarkable successes over its brief existence. In just over two years, the league's growth has been staggering, engaging over 2,400 students in 2023, which is a remarkable increase of 565 participants from the previous year. The numbers speak for themselves: from 192 participants in the spring of 2021 to a phenomenal 930 participants in the spring of 2023. The program's reach extends beyond mere numbers – it's about fostering a sense of community, encouraging parents to attend games, and fans cheering for their schools.
Supporting a Brighter Future
The YMCA OKC Elementary School Sports League is more than a league; it's a vehicle for change. By removing financial barriers and fostering inclusivity, the program o ers young individuals a chance to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally. The impact of this endeavor goes beyond the playing field, touching families, schools, and the entire community. The YMCA's call for support and collaboration resonates deeply. For the program to continue its remarkable journey, it needs a network of partners, advocates, and visionaries who believe in the transformative power of sports. As the league moves forward, its goal remains clear: to provide equitable access to quality sports programs, building healthier communities and brighter futures for Oklahoma City's youth. For more information about the YMCA OKC Elementary School Sports League, visit www.ymcaokc.org.
“Working in youth sports for 8 years I have seen many children smile. However, the smiles you see in this program are unmatched. Every Saturday, my staff and I see these smiles. There is so much gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity from both our students and athletes and their parents/guardians.”
– DAMONE REDD SR. Sports Director
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES As with any venture, challenges have surfaced along the way. While participation rates have steadily increased across schools, some variation in engagement across different sports has been noted. To address this, the YMCA and its partners are dedicated to providing opportunities for students to explore new sports, beyond what they might be accustomed to or culturally familiar with. The goal is to enable every participating school to maximize the program's potential and achieve high participation rates across all sports. Looking Ahead To 2024 As the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City continues its noble mission, several key opportunities for 2024 are in focus. Collaborations with OKCPS and PAL are set to strengthen the pathway for 3rd-12th grade athletics, opening doors for more young athletes. Teen job training initiatives within the YMCA will provide valuable life skills to participants. Additionally, a TANF-funded partnership with Fields and Futures will contribute to further growth and sustainability.
By joining the Y, you’re giving to yourself, your family and your community.
FIND YOUR Y AT JOIN TODAY ymcaokc.org
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / SEPT-OCT 2023 37
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