A YMCA team member instructs young children holding small, blue footballs on an indoor court

Sports & Programs

Home Sports & Programs

Sports & Programs

At the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, we bring people together through social sports leagues, programs, and fun activities that strengthen the mind and body. Whatever your age or skill level, you’ll find opportunities to grow, compete, and build meaningful connections.

Learn about Grand Traverse Bay YMCA youth programs and adult sports leagues near Traverse City. 

YMCA Youth Programs

girl shooting a basketball while being defended

Youth Basketball

We offer youth basketball programs for every age group, from K-5 coed leagues, middle school boys and girls leagues, a high school girls league, and even a 3-on-3 tournament Enroll your student to learn teamwork, sportsmanship, and basketball skills in a fun, supportive environment!

A young boy kneels down, focused on catching a football while playing flag football on the field.

Flag Football

Our K–5 co-ed flag football program teaches fundamentals in a fun, non-contact setting with volunteer coaches and MHSAA officials. Players receive official NFL jerseys, building excitement, teamwork, and a true sense of team pride.

Several kids engaged in a lively soccer game on a sunny field, showcasing teamwork and enthusiasm.

Soccer

Dribble, pass, shoot, score! The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA’s coed K-5 soccer leagues help players of all experience levels develop age-appropriate skills. Our coaches emphasize fair play, positive engagement, and team collaboration.

A young boy in a lacrosse uniform stands confidently on a grassy field, ready for the game.

Lacrosse

Help your elementary or middle school-aged student discover the fun of this increasingly popular sport with lacrosse at the Y In partnership with TC United Lacrosse, this program focuses on learning the sport’s rules through skills, drills, and small-sided games.

A young boy stands on a tennis court, confidently holding a tennis racket, ready to play.

Short Sports

Short Sports is a program designed for our youngest athletes. Short Sports introduces a new sport to children ages 3-5 monthly. Participants will develop balance, coordination, and teamwork by learning the basics in a supportive and confidence-building environment.

Children practicing Taekwondo in a karate class in Kentucky, demonstrating various techniques and forms.

Taekwondo

We partner with Seung-ni Martial Arts; to offer this Korean martial art that teaches life skills that enhance home life and academics. Age-appropriate groups (ages 3 to 12) learn Taekwondo in a safe, character-building setting.

Children playing football

Pop Warner Football

The Y is the administrator for northern Michigan’s Pop Warner tackle football program, facilitating game scheduling and securing officials for 30+ communities across the region. Contact your local town’s team to join this age-appropriate sport that builds athletic skills and character. Homeschool students are welcome to take part through their closest community team.

Adult Sports Leagues

Basketball player sits on bench and chats with coach.

Adult Basketball Leagues

YMCA adult basketball leagues welcome players 16+ of all skill levels. Our recreational men’s basketball league and women’s basketball league participants enjoy regular season games plus tournaments in local gyms. Bring your team for competitive community play!

A woman wearing a pink shirt grips a baseball glove, showcasing her enthusiasm for softball.

Adult Softball Leagues

We offer YMCA softball action all summer long at the Traverse City Civic Center fields. Join Men’s League, Men’s Senior (55+) League, or our Coed Leagues for friendly competition and lasting connections!

Other Programs

A senior man hits a pickleball with a racket, demonstrating his skill and focus on the court.

Pickleball

Pickleball is America’s fastest-growing sport. Described as a combination of badminton, table tennis, and tennis, this engaging activity is addicting! The South Y offers drop-in play, lessons, ladder leagues and challenging tournaments for all ages and experience levels.

Close up of a hand holding a squash ball and racket, preparing to serve.

Squash Courts & Lessons

At the South Y location, players of all ages and abilities build camaraderie and improve their health through squash, with opportunities for instruction, skill development, and court reservations up to a week in advance.

Tennis

A senior man hits a pickleball with a racket, demonstrating his skill and focus on the court.

Youth Tennis

Our youth tennis programs follow USTA’s proven developmental pathway with age-appropriate instruction, from beginner fundamentals to competitive techniques for advancing players.

Close up of a hand holding a squash ball and racket, preparing to serve.

Adult Tennis

Adults enjoy a variety of engaging options, from high-energy cardio sessions to rating-specific drills and match play with professional coaching.

Both members and non-members can participate through flexible payment options. Visit our adult tennis page to explore our complete program offerings and schedule your court time today!

Discover All We Have to Offer

Discover all the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA has to offer. Our comprehensive seasonal program guide details our extensive list of classes, programs, adult social sports, and youth sports leagues near Traverse City.

 Online registration is available for all age groups, from youth to seniors.