Programs have need for adult volunteers

BY COURTNEY FAY SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

e numerous bene ts of youth sports have been heavily researched and well-documented. Children who participate in youth sport programs are more likely to build lasting friendships, develop traits such as respect and kindness and are better able to focus academically. By participating in youth sport programs, children also develop important skills not only related to their speci c sport, but also how to work as a team, discipline, problemsolving and e ective communication.

With the school year in full swing and cooler months around the corner, now is a great time to check out upcoming youth sport programs your kids may enjoy. Registration for the Elizabeth Park & Recreation District’s winter basketball programs open Sept. 1.

e Youth Basketball program is a co-ed league and open to children between the ages of six and 12. Teams will have one practice and one game each week beginning in January. According to elizabethpr. com, the fee for this program is still being established.

Another option for boys ages 12-14 is the Boys Travel Basketball league. is league will have one practice during the week in Elizabeth and play weekend games at the Parker Fieldhouse on Saturday afternoons. e fee for this program is listed at $96. Typical start times for practices will be between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., utilizing the school’s gymnasiums after regular school hours.

If your child’s interests go beyond basketball, you can nd some other options in either Parker or Castle Rock. In addition to basketball (ages 6-12), the Town of Parker o ers lacrosse (ages 6-14) or soccer (ages 6-18). You can view these options and register by visiting parkerrec. com/youthsports. e Town of Castle Rock o ers basketball (K-8), youth fencing (ages 8 and up), inline hockey (second grade-high school), or competitive softball (8U-14U). For younger children, monthly clinics are also o ered for baseball (Blastball ages 3-5), basketball (Little Dribblers ages 3-5) and volleyball (Little Spikes ages 6-8).

More information and registration details for these programs can be found at www.recreation.crgov.com.

Soccer Buddies o ers soccer programs for kids ranging in age from 15 months up to 12 years. With locations in Colorado Springs, Monument, Castle Rock, Lone Tree, Centennial and Highlands Ranch, there are a wide variety of programs and schedules from which to choose. All this information is detailed at www. coloradosoccerbuddies.com.

Don’t forget that with each youth sport league, there is a need for parent volunteers and/or coaches. is is a great opportunity for parents to get involved and foster positive experiences for their child(ren) and the community. Parent volunteers not only get to spend additional quality time with their kids, in most cases, their child is able to participate in the program for no cost.

Whether you are new to volunteering for youth programs or a seasoned veteran, ample resources are available to you so you’re wellprepared for a great season. If you are looking to earn a little extra cash, Elizabeth Park & Recreation District is in need of basketball o cials for the upcoming season. Starting pay is $20 an hour and o cial training will be provided. More information and registering for the o cial training are available at elizabethpr.com.