SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMS
By Barb Beckett, Y Sports Director
The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA provides a broad spectrum of programming for the youth of our region this summer which include:
Y KINDERKICKERS
This basic introduction to soccer is geared for boys and girls in preschool, 3 - 5 year olds. They will learn the basics of soccer in a non-competitive, fun, values-based and supporting atmosphere with safety, skills, and teamwork are the focus. Class meets outdoors unless weather demands a move inside. Parents are encouraged to get involved in class exercises. Y Kinderkickers is held at the YMCA Main Facility, 3000 Racquet Club Dr in Traverse City on Wednesdays from June 15 to July 20 from 4:30 to 5:50 pm. Registration is due June 8 with fees for Y members at $25 and non-members at $60.
Y BASKETBALL SKILLS
The Y this summer offers a well rounded skills program where children in grades 1 to 4 can learn the basics of this popular sport in the context of the YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. The program will be held at YMCA Main Facility, 3000 Racquet Club Dr in Traverse City on Wednesdays from June 15 to July 20 from 7:00 to 8:00 pm. Registration is due June 8 with fees for Y members at $25 and non-members at $60.
Y BEACH VOLLEYBALL SKILLS
The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA is proud to offer a beach volleyball skills program for grades 5 - 7. This program is a great way for players to further develop their volleyball skills. Each practice will include: ball control, game strategy, team play, a strong emphasis on fundamental skills, and strength and conditioning. Held at the Y Main Facility on Wednesdays from June 15 - July 20, 5:30 - 7:00 pm. Registration is due June 8 with fees for Y member at $25 and non-members at $60.
Y GYMNASTICS
The Y Gymnastics program will continue a full schedule of activity this summer for people ages 1 – high school in both recreational and team play at its 1100 Woodmere facility in Traverse City. “It’s also a great place for a summer birthday party,” comments Betsy Van Deinse, gymnastics supervisor. The first summer session begins June 20. Call the Y Gymnastic Center at 929-2869 for more information.
Y TENNIS
One of the featured activities of this YMCA, tennis pro and CEO, Tom Van Deinse says this summer’s activities will feature lessons for all ages and recreational play. Play will be available both indoors and outdoors on a scheduled basis. The first summer session begins June 20. Call the Y Main Facility at 933-9622 for more information.
The YMCA provides summer day camps most programming each week from June 13 to September 2 this year.
“Day Camp provides a camp style setting where children from ages 3 ½ to grade 9 will not only build lasting friendships but also will experience programs based on the core values of the YMCA of caring, respect, honesty, and responsibility,” commented Katie Winslow, summer camp supervisor. “Each camp will have team building, activities, arts and crafts, and field trips based on a weekly theme for each of the day camp groups. Our property is adjacent to the Boardman Nature Preserve which gives us 40 acres for our programs.” (Note: There is a Camp Registration Night at the Y Main Facility on Friday June 3 at 6:00 pm. Sign up that night and save $25)
Registrations are now being taken. Call the Y Main Facility at 933-9622 for more information.
Y CHILD CARE
Located at 1100 Woodmere, Suite B, the Y Early Childhood Center provides a fully licensed 9,600 sq.ft. facility for children from infants to school age. The Center’s values-based curriculum, caring, and competent staff in a wonderful new facility provides the best care for your child. This YMCA provides scholarships for Y Child Care and all programs in keeping with its board of director’s policy of “no one denied” to YMCA programs due to financial circumstances. Call Dagny Monette at 421-3568 to arrange a personal tour. (Enrollment is subject to space availability.)
The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA puts Judeo-Christian principles into practice through over 65 programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Detailed information and registration forms on these programs are available at www.gtbayymca.org or call 933-9622 to speak directly with the appropriate Y program director.
