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Program Category: Youth

Active kids need active offerings and the Ashland Y has plenty of opportunities to to find the right activity for our youth.

Youth Volleyball League

2026 Youth Volleyball League – Register Now! 

Calling all 4th–6th graders! Come join our exciting co-ed youth volleyball league designed for both beginner and intermediate athletes. Build skills, gain confidence, learn teamwork, and have fun. All while being coached by Ashland University Women’s Volleyball athletes!

📅 Season Dates: January 27 – February 19

Practices: Tuesdays | 5:00–6:15 PM
Games: Thursdays | 5:00–6:15 PM
📍 Location: Ashland YMCA Gymnasium
207 Miller St, Ashland, OH 44805
Pricing:
• Members: $55
• Non-Members: $80
✔️ Includes a league T-shirt!
Divisions:
• 4th–5th Grade Beginners
• 5th–6th Grade Intermediate

Last Day to Register: January 13th!

For more info: 419-289-0626
Email: sports@ashlandy.org

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW!

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Lacrosse (Coming Fall 2026)

Youth Lacrosse Coming Fall 2026

🥍 Youth Lacrosse Development Program

We’re excited to launch a brand-new Youth Lacrosse Program with the Ashland University Women’s Lacrosse Team!

This 6-week program is designed to introduce players to the sport, focusing on the fundamentals, teamwork, and fun all while learning directly from college athletes.

Program Highlights:

  • Length: 6 weeks (September–October)

  • Led By: Ashland University Women’s Lacrosse Athletes

  • Introductory Program: Perfect for new players looking to learn the game in a supportive, energetic environment

Registration Details:

  • Registration Opens: July – August

  • T-shirt Order Deadline: August


This program marks the beginning of something exciting for youth lacrosse in Ashland. Stay tuned for more details as we prepare for 2026!

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Gymnastics

Classes & Descriptions:

Parent & Child (Ages 1.5-3)

This is a parent/child participation class where your little one will be able to
explore gymnastics and work on large motor skill development.

Preschool 1 (Ages 3-4)

Balance, coordination, and structure will be introduced in this class
with an emphasis on gross motor skill development.

Preschool 2 (Ages 4-5)

Children in this class will experience more gymnastics equipment while
working on basic introductory skills for Beginner 1.

Beginner (Ages 6+)

Learn beginner and advanced beginner skills on all four events.
No experience required!

Intermediate (Ages 6+)

Intermediate/advanced level skills that build onto the Beginner class skills.
Participants must have completed the Beginner class successfully and be approved in order to join this class.

Pre-Team (Ages 6+)

This program is for those interested in joining our competitive team in the future.
Participants must try out or be invited to join this class.
Sessions are 12 weeks long except for our spring session, which is 6 weeks.
Please email the gymnastics director for more information on this program: gymnastics@ashlandy.org

Competitive Team (Ages 6+)

Our Gymnastics Team strives to develop happy and healthy athletes inside and outside of the gym.
We offer high-quality instruction while ensuring that athletes still have fun doing what they love!
For further information about our team program, please contact Keirsten Proulx: gymnastics@ashlandy.org

 

Program Policies:

Arrival & Dismissal

  • Place your child’s belonging in a cubby
  • Please be ready to pick your child up at the end of class
  • If you will be late or pickup, please notify the front desk

Attire

  • Hair must be pulled back out of the face
  • A leotard is preferred but athletic wear that is form-fitting is also acceptable
  • No jeans
  • No two-piece (bare midriff) attire is allowed
  • No shoes – socks are optional
  • No jewelry (stud earrings are ok)

Behavior

  • Stay with your instructor during class
  • Follow your instructor’s directions
  • No horseplay
  • Keep your hands to yourself
  • No gum, food, or drink (other than water) in the gym
  • Failure to follow class rules will result in a “time-out” during class
  • Continued disruptive behavior will result in dismissal from class

Spectator Viewing

  • Parents/guardians are not permitted to be on the carpeted area or any mats
  • Children who are not in a class should remain with the parent/guardian in the viewing area
  • Please allow our coaches to do their jobs and do not coach or distract your child

Payment Policy

  • Payment in full is required to register and be on the class roster
  • 50% if you choose to drop the class after the first day of the session
  • No refunds will be given after the first class

Make-ups

  • We do not offer make-up classes on an individual basis
  • If a class is canceled by the YMCA for any reason, a make-up class will be scheduled, or you will receive a refund for the value of one class

Health Conditions & Illness

  • If your child tests positive or is exposed to someone that has tested positive for Covid-19 you must inform the gymnastics coordinator immediately
  • It is your responsibility to notify the gymnastics coordinator of any relevant health conditions your child has
  • If your child is not feeling well or has a fever, please keep them home

Dance

 

Coming Soon

 

Martial Arts (Runs Every Session)

Karate Moves (ages 4-5)

Member: $35 Non-Member: $70

Children develop respectful behavior and basic karate hand and foot techniques. Optional parent participation is encouraged to support a shy child.

Low-Rank Kids Karate (1st-7th Grade)

Member: $45 Non-Member: $90

This class will teach basic karate stances, hand defense, kicking, punching, sparing, and Bo Staff, emphasizing self-discipline, respect for others, and karate for self-defense only. Students with the proper rank and maturity refine their skills and develop a deeper understanding of karate while preparing for adult classes.

High-Rank Class (Grades 1st-7th)

Member: $45 Non-Member: $90

Students with the proper rank and maturity refine their skills and develop a deeper understanding of karate while preparing for adult classes.

Adult Karate Class (Ages 12 and up)

Member: $50 Non-Member: $100

Training includes stances, punching, kicking, blocking, breathing, katas self-defense, and body conditioning. As students progress, weaponry and advanced techniques are added. All grades below the black belt and black-belt degrees can be earned. Promotional certification seminars for degree advancement are available. The cost of each certificate is $35.00 with the exception of black belts.

Ashland Track & Field


TWO PROGRAMS – ONE TEAM!

The Ashland YMCA offers two exciting programs for athletes ages 6-18, whether you’re just starting out or competing at an elite level!

Check back soon for more details for the 2026 season!

Click here to register!


ASHLAND YMCA CLUB TEAM

  • Competes in 3 YMCA-only meets
  • Perfect for those looking for a local competition experience
  • No additional meet costs

Season: 2026 Dates Coming Soon

Member: $85.00 | Non- Member: $115

(Price includes: Jersey and T-shirt) 

419 Flyers AAU Information Packet

AAU rule book


AAU COMPETITIVE TEAM

  • Opportunities to compete in 5+ AAU meets across Ohio, including Cleveland, Columbus, Toledo, and Cincinnati
  • Ideal for athletes looking for a higher level of competition and travel opportunities!
  • Athletes can see their improvements over time, helping them set goals and measure their progress accurately.
  • AAU meets provide a pathway for athletes to advance to the AAU Junior Olympic Games, one of the most prestigious youth competitions
    • Athletes receive coaching from highly experienced coaches who understand advanced techniques and training methods.
    • Competitive opportunities, set goals, work toward advancement at the district, regional, and even national levels

    Season: 2026 Dates Coming Soon!

    Member: $100* | Non-Member: $125*

    (Includes: Uniform, T-shirt, AAU Track Membership)

    *Additional Fees: $20 per track meet


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    Volleyball Training (3rd-8th Grade)

    Mar 01, 2024 – Apr 05, 2024

    Saturdays From 9AM-10:30AM

    This dynamic training program focuses on sharpening key volleyball skills to take your game to the next level. Led by an experienced instructor, players will receive personalized coaching and lots of reps in drills designed to improve:

    Passing and serve receive
    Setting and positioning
    Hitting and spiking
    Blocking and defense
    Footwork and agility
    Serving and serving accuracy
    Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, you’ll leave each session feeling more confident and equipped to elevate your game. Get expert instruction, valuable feedback, and plenty of practice to refine your skills and become a stronger, more skilled player!

    3×3 Basketball League

    3V3 Basketball League

    February 23rd – March 26th

    K-8th Grade Boys/Girls

    Get ready for an exciting 3v3 basketball experience for K-8th graders! This competitive format empowers players to take charge of the game without coaches, allowing them to build confidence, teamwork, and decision-making skills on the court.

    Each team will play two fast-paced games, giving kids an opportunity to showcase their abilities, work together, and develop a love for the game in an energetic and supportive environment. Whether they’re just starting or refining their skills, this is a fun and competitive way to grow as players!

    Come play with your friends and take your basketball game to the next level! The YMCA 3-on-3 League is a one-day-a-week commitment running February 23 to March 26, featuring 5 weeks of play capped off with an exciting single-elimination tournament during the final week.


    Why 3-on-3?

    Smaller team sizes mean more touches, more offensive and defensive opportunities, and faster improvement! Players will grow their skills through fundamental team concepts like give-and-go’s, backdoor cuts, pick-and-rolls, and more. This league is perfect for developing leadership, communication, and teamwork.


    SKILL-BASED SCHEDULING

    To ensure competitive and balanced games, teams will be scheduled based on skill level—creating a positive and challenging experience for all participants.


    A LEAGUE FOR ALL LEVELS

    No matter if you’re brand new to the game or working to sharpen your skills, our league creates a fun, competitive environment for every player.

    • K–1st Grade: Coaches and staff will provide on-court assistance to help guide players and build confidence.

    • 2nd–8th Grade: Players take control in this unique, player-led format, encouraging independence, leadership, and smart decision-making on the court.


    WHAT’S INCLUDED?

    • Team shirts – one for every player

    • Court officials to monitor and support games

    • Medals for championship-winning teams

    • Close scheduling for quick action and minimal downtime

    • Ability to form your own team – Bring your squad and hit the court together!


    League Details:

    • Dates: February 23rd – March 26th

    • Times: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

    • Game Nights:

      • Mondays: Kinder – 3rd Grade

      • Thursdays: 4th – 8th Grade

    • Format: Two games per night + end-of-season tournament on March 23rd & 26th

    • Price:

      • $60 for YMCA members

      • $70 for non-members
        (includes a league t-shirt)


    Age-Specific Hoops and Basketballs:

    • K-1st graders: Play on 8-foot hoops with a 27.5-size basketball.

    • 2nd-3rd graders: Play on 9-foot hoops with a 28.5-size basketball.

    • 4th-8th graders: Play on 10-foot hoops with a 28.5-size ball.


    Registration Information:

    • Opens: December 1st

    • Closes: Friday, January 30th

    • Options: Bring your own team or register individually, and we’ll do our best to place you on a team!

    • Game schedule will be released one week after registration closes.


    This league is all about having fun, learning the game, and enjoying basketball in a positive and supportive environment. 

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    Swim Lessons

    Swim Lesson Descriptions

    *Registration for swim lessons will not be the same as our other programs due to the participants receiving “report cards” at the end of their session.  This helps parents know which class to register their children for our next session.  Not all classes are available to register online, advanced classes require that the children be properly placed into those classes. 

    ** If you have any questions about which class your child belongs in, please call 419-289-0626 and speak to our Aquatics Director.

    Parent Child Classes

    *These classes are held together. A parent or guardian must accompany the child in the water during the class.

    A – Water Discovery  –

    Parents accompany their infants and toddlers as the children are introduced to the aquatic environment and encourage them to enjoy themselves while learning about the water.

    B – Water Exploration –

    Parents work with their children to explore body positions, floating, blowing bubbles and fundamental safety and aquatic skills.

    Water Acclimation – 3+

    Students develop comfort with underwater exploration and learn to safely exit in the event of falling into a body of water This stage lays the foundation that allows for a student’s future progress in swimming. Students in this stage focus on the following: Exploring the aquatic environment and personal skills with instructor help, Developing basic skills to propel and glide through the water with instructor help.

    Water Movement – 3+

    In this stage, students focus on body position and control, directional change, and forward movement in the water while also continuing to practice how to safely exit in the event of falling into a body of water. Students in this stage focus on the following: Exploring the aquatic environment and personal skills without instructor help, Developing basic skills to propel and glide through the water with instructor help.

    Water Stamina – 3+ and (6+ – beginner class)

    In this stage, students learn how to swim to safety from a longer distance than in previous stages in the event of falling into a body of water. This stage also introduces rhythmic breathing and integrated arm and leg action. Students in this stage focus on the following: Integrating arm action, leg action, and rhythmic breathing.

    This is the last stage for the 3+ age group and they should be able to swim independently for about 10 yards.

    In the 6+ class, it is designed to be a beginner class, although preferred, swimmers do not have to swim independently. Beginner swimmers will still learn to float, put their face in the water and become more confident swimmers.

    Stroke Introduction – 6+

    Introduces basic stroke technique in front crawl and back crawl butterfly and breaststroke kick and reinforces water safety through treading water and elementary backstroke.

    Stroke Development – 6+

    Introduces breaststroke and butterfly strokes and reinforces water safety through building endurance.

    Stroke Mechanics – 6+

    Refines stroke technique on all major competitive strokes and encourages swimming as part of a healthy lifestyle.

    *Stroke Development and Stroke Mechanics are often ran as a combined class.

    2025 Session Dates

    Winter I: Jan. 6 – Feb. 15 (Break Week: Feb 16 – Feb 23)

    Winter II: Feb. 24 – Apr. 12 (Break Week: March 17 – March 23)

    Spring: Apr 14 – May 24 (Break Week: May 25 – June 1)

    Summer I: Jun 1 – July 12

    Summer II: July 14 – Aug 16 (Break Week: Aug. 17 – Sept. 7)

    Fall I: Sept 8 – Oct 18 (Break Week: Oct 19 – Oct 26 )

    Fall II: Nov. 11 – Dec. 20 (Break Week: Dec 21 – Jan 4)

    UNITED WAY SWIM LESSONS

    The United Way blesses the community by offering low-income families FREE swim lessons for children 6 years and older. Please come into the YMCA and ask the Front Desk for an application.

     

    Choosing the right swim suit. 

    Jr. Cavs Basketball/Cheer + Dance

    Junior CAVS Basketball and Cheer/Dance Program Information:

    Junior CAVS Basketball Information:

    Is your child excited to hit the court this season? 

    The Jr. Cavs Basketball League is a youth basketball program that partners with the Cleveland Cavaliers to provide kids with a fun and engaging way to learn and play basketball. The league offers opportunities for boys and girls of various age groups and skill levels to develop their basketball skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a structured environment.

    Key features of the Jr. Cavs Basketball League include:

    • Professional Team Affiliation: The league is officially affiliated with the Cleveland Cavaliers, providing participants with branded jerseys and a unique connection to an NBA team.

    • Skill Development: Players will focus on improving fundamental basketball skills such as dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense, while also learning game strategies and how to play as part of a team.

    • Fun & Competitive Environment: While the league encourages competition, the main goal is for players to have fun, enjoy the game, and experience personal growth.

    • Exclusive Opportunities: Players often receive special perks such as tickets to Cavaliers games, Cavs gear, and the chance to participate in Jr. Cavs events.

    This league provides a fantastic way for kids to enjoy basketball while being part of a community that’s connected to the excitement of the NBA.

    Who can Join? 

    Boys and Girls Ages 3-12 

    All Skill Levels Welcome 

    What’s Included? 

    5 Regular Season Games + 2 weeks of Playoffs 

    1 Practice Per Week 

    Official Jr. Cavs Jersey 

    2 Free Tickets To A Regular Season Cleveland Cavaliers Game 

    Key Dates:

    Registration Closes: Saturday, October 25
    Coaches Meeting: Thursday, November 6
    Practices Begin: Nov 17 – Nov 22
    Week 1: Saturday, Dec. 6
    Week 2: Saturday, Dec. 13
    Week 3: Saturday, Dec. 20
    (No Games: Saturday Dec. 27)
    Week 4: Saturday, Jan. 3
    Week 5: Saturday, Jan. 10
    Tournament: Saturday, Jan. 17 & Saturday, Jan. 24

    Jr. Cavs Cheer + Dance Program

    The Ashland YMCA is proud to introduce our first-ever Jr. Cavs Cheer + Dance Program! This program is open to children ages 3–12 and is designed to teach cheerleading and dance fundamentals while building confidence, teamwork, and school spirit.

    Program Highlights

    • One-Hour Clinic with the Cleveland Cavaliers Cheer Coaching Staff
      Participants will receive professional-level instruction directly from Cavs staff to kick off the season.

    • Weekly Practices with YMCA Cheer Coach
      Coach Corinne brings energy, experience, and a passion for working with young children. She will lead practices and guide the team throughout the season.

    • Performances at Youth Jr. Cavs Basketball Games
      Cheer + Dance participants will perform during Jr. Cavs Basketball games, adding excitement and spirit to the season. These games are played on Saturdays (Time TBD)

    • Program Package Includes:

      • Jr. Cavs Cheer + Dance T-Shirt

      • Two (2) Cleveland Cavaliers tickets

      • Quality coaching and fun, supportive environment

    Age Groups

    • Little Leaders: Ages 3–6

    • Next Level Leaders: Ages 7-12

    Schedule

    • Practices: Weekly on Thursdays starting November 20th. 

      • Little Leaders: Thursday from 5:00 – 6:00 PM 
      • Next Level  Leaders: Thursday from 6:15 – 7:15 PM 
    • Games: Saturdays during Jr. Cavs Basketball season

    Cost

    • YMCA Members: $75

    • Non-Members: $100

    • Special Discount: Families registering a child for both Jr. Cavs Basketball and Cheer + Dance may qualify for a discount. Please email Sports Director Christian Langston at sports@ashlandy.org before registering for both programs.

    Registration Deadline

    • Cheer/Dance: October 31, 2025

    • CAVS Basketball: October 25, 2025

    Register Here


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    Little Kickers Outdoor Soccer (3-5 Years Old’s)

    ⚽ Little Kickers Soccer League (Ages 3–5)

    Little Kickers is a fun, developmental league designed for boys and girls ages 3–5. Our coaches focus on teaching the basic fundamentals of soccer, teamwork, and most importantly—making the game fun!

    Players will learn:

    • Skills & ball techniques

    • Footwork exercises

    • Strategy & teamwork drills

    • Fun games & matches

    Each team will practice once per week (45 minutes), and every participant will receive a team-colored t-shirt.

    Equipment Needed:

    • Shin guards (required)

    • Soccer cleats (recommended)

    • Water bottle


    Season Details

    • Practices Begin: Week of April 20–24th

    • Coaches Meeting: April 15th  or 16th

    • First Game: May 2nd

    • Last Game: June 6th

    • Location: Ashland YMCA


    Registration

    • Open: February 2nd – April 6th

    • Fees:

      • Member: $50

      • Non-Member: $70


    👟 Looking to get your little one introduced to soccer early? Don’t wait—sign them up today and let the fun begin!

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