Skip to main content

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

Written by Christian Langston on .

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!

Continue reading

Impact Youth Soccer

Written by admin on .

Click Here To Register

Impact Youth League is a development-focused youth sports league designed to help young athletes grow skills, confidence, and a love for the game in a positive, energetic environment. Through volunteer coaches and meaningful competition, Impact creates a season-long experience where kids don’t just play — they learn, grow, and create lasting memories.

Our league mission is to provide a fun, organized, and supportive league that emphasizes development, sportsmanship, and enjoyment for every athlete.

League Snapshot

  • Ages: 6-12 years old

  • Divisions:8U, 10U, 12U

  • Season: Spring 2026

  • Season Length: 6 weeks (weekly practices & games) + Impact Cup Tournament

  • Games: Saturday evenings (Approx. 9:00 – 4:00 PM)

    • First Game: Saturday, June 20th

    • Impact Cup Tournament: Saturday August 1st

  • Location: Myers Field (Behind the Ashland YMCA)

  • Registration: January 3 – May 16th

  • Player Evaluation: Thursday, May 21, 2026 (Time: TBD)

Why Choose Impact?

An exciting, positive environment where kids can’t wait to come back each week. High-energy games, music, and competitive play—all centered on development, confidence, and fun.

Kids don’t just play—they EXPERIENCE the game.

League Philosophy 

Development comes first. We believe young athletes grow best when they feel confident and supported, learn fundamentals in a positive environment, and enjoy coming back each week. Winning matters — but growth, effort, and experience matter more.

Draft-Style League Format 

Impact Youth League uses a draft-style team formation process. Players participate in a player evaluation session to help league staff understand developmental levels, and coaches then take part in a structured draft designed to support positive competition and player development across the league.

Player evaluations are not tryouts. All registered players will be placed on a team.

Players who are unable to attend evaluations will be placed on teams using available information to support fair team placement.

Player Evaluation

Player evaluations help us understand skill level, confidence, and comfort with the game so we can place athletes in the best environment for learning and growth. Evaluations are low-pressure, age-appropriate, and focused on development—not ranking.

Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026

League coaches and staff observe players through fun, age-appropriate activities designed to support fair team placement.

What Makes Impact Different?

🏆 Impact Cup Tournament
A season-ending championship weekend for all divisions that celebrates competition, teamwork, and player growth.

📸 Weekly Highlights & Action Photography
Quality photo drops and weekly highlights are shared on our digital scoreboard and social media.

📈 A Clear Pathway for Growth
A development-first approach that builds confidence, skills, and game understanding.

Game Day Experience

Impact Youth League provides an exciting, positive atmosphere kids can’t wait to return to:

  • High-energy games

  • Music and engaging environments

  • Supportive coaches and staff

  • Competitive play designed to support development

Divisions & Team Structure

  • Divisions offered for boys and girls

  • Co-ed divisions used when numbers require

  • Equal playing time emphasized, especially at younger ages

Volunteer Coaches

Impact Youth League is made possible through the support of parents and positive role models in our community. Our league cannot operate without individuals who are willing to step in, lead, and help create a meaningful experience for our athletes.

Volunteer coaches play a vital role in shaping a fun, safe, and development-focused environment where players grow in confidence, learn teamwork, and develop a love for the game. Coaches serve not only as instructors, but as mentors and role models who help make a lasting impact on young athletes.

Training, resources, and ongoing league support are provided to ensure every coach feels prepared and supported throughout the season.

Interested in Coaching?

If you’re interested in serving as a volunteer coach or positive role model in our community, we’d love to hear from you.

📧 Contact Sports Director Christian Langston:
sports@ashlandy.org

Click Here To Register

Continue reading

Lacrosse (Coming Fall 2026)

Written by admin on .

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!

Continue reading

Gymnastics

Written by admin on .

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

Written by admin on .

 

Coming Soon

 

Martial Arts (Runs Every Session)

Written by admin on .

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

Written by admin on .

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

    Continue reading

    3×3 Basketball League

    Written by admin on .

    Click Here To Register

    3V3 Basketball League

    February 23rd – March 26th

    K-8th Grade Boys/Girls

    The Ashland YMCA 3×3 Basketball League is a fast-paced, competitive basketball experience designed for players who are ready to play, compete, and grow through game action. Inspired by FIBA-style 3×3 basketball, this league emphasizes freedom, decision-making, and real basketball reads — not sideline coaching.

    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. This league runs one night per week and is built for athletes who already have a foundational understanding of the game.

    League Overview 

    • Who: Boys & Girls | Grades 2nd–8th

    • When: Mondays | 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

    • Dates: March 2nd – April 6th

      • No games on March 30th

    • Season Format:

      • 4-week regular season

      • Final week single-elimination tournament

    • Location: Ashland YMCA

    What is 3X3 basketball?

    3×3 basketball is a globally recognized format of the game played at a faster pace with smaller teams, creating more touches, more decisions, and more opportunities for growth.

    Why 3×3 works?

    • More ball handling and shot attempts

    • Increased spacing and movement

    • Faster reads and decision-making

    • Emphasis on teamwork, communication, and toughness

    This league follows a FIBA-style approach with continuous play and minimal stoppages to keep the game flowing.

    League Style & Expectations

    • Teams: 3–6 players per team

    • Bring Your Own Team: Players may form their own teams

    • No On-Court Coaching: Games are player-led

    • Competitive Play: Designed for athletes with prior basketball experience

    • Skill-Based Scheduling: Teams are matched weekly to promote competitive and balanced games

    • Games Per Night: 2 games per team

    • This league is not intended for first-time or beginner players. There are no practices, and players are expected to understand basic basketball concepts such as dribbling, spacing, passing, and defensive positioning.

    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.

    What’s Included 

    • Team shirt for every player

    • Court officials for all games

    • Medals for tournament winners

    • Close scheduling for fast action and minimal downtime

    • Competitive, game-focused environment

    Registration Information

    • YMCA Members: $55 per player

    • Non-Members: $75 per player

    • Registration Deadline: February 2nd

    Spots are limited. Early registration is encouraged.

    Contact Information

    Christian Langston
    Sports Director, Ashland YMCA
    📧 sports@ashlandy.org

    Click Here To Register

    Continue reading

    Swim Lessons

    Written by admin on .

    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 receptionist.

    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.

    2026 Session Dates

    Winter I: January 5 – February 14 :: Test Dates: 2/9 & 2/10 (Break Week: February 15 – February 21)

    Winter II: February 23 – April 11 :: Test Dates: 4/6 & 4/7 after break (Break Week: March 29 – April 4- Which is ACS Spring Break)

    Spring: April 13 – May 23 :: Test Dates: 5/18 & 5/19 (Break Week: May 24 – May 30)

    Summer I: June 1 – July 4 :: Test Dates: 6/29 & 6/30 (Break Week: July 5 – July 11)

    Summer II: July 13 – August 15 :: Test Dates: 8/10 & 8/11 after break! (Break Week: August 16 – August 22)

    Fall I: September 7 – October 17 :: Test Dates: 10/12 & 10/13 (Break Week: October 18 – October 24)

    Fall II: October 26 – December 12 :: Test Dates: 12/7 & 12/8 (Break Week: November 22 – November 28)

    There will be no lessons the following weeks: December 13-19, December 20-26, or December 27- January 2, 2027.

    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. Once entered into the scholarship program families are encouraged to continue to use it until your swimmer has progressed through all of the classes. Applications are valid for one year.
    See you at the pool!!

     

    Choosing the right swim suit. 

    Jr. Cavs Basketball/Cheer + Dance

    Written by admin on .

    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


    Continue reading

    Little Kickers Outdoor Soccer (3-6 Years Old’s)

    Written by admin on .

    ⚽ Little Kickers Soccer League (Ages 3–6)

    The Little Kickers Outdoor program is a fun and engaging way for boys and girls ages 3-4 and 5-6 to be introduced to the game of soccer in a positive and supportive environment. This program focuses on basic soccer skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship while keeping kids active and having fun.

    Players will learn:

    • Skills & ball techniques

    • Footwork exercises

    • Strategy & teamwork drills

    • Fun games & matches

    Each team will practice once per week (45 minutes-60 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

    • First Game: Saturday, April 25th 

    • Last Game: Saturday, May 23rd 

    • Location: Ashland YMCA, Myers Field 

    Registration

    • Closes: March 13th

    • Fees:

      • Member: $45

      • Non-Member: $65

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

    Click Here To Register

    Continue reading

    • 1
    • 2