Girls’ Little League Softball

Yakima Valley Little League Softball for girls 5-10 years

A girls’ Little League softball program is being assembled for a 2012 season.

Yakima Valley Little League Softball is designed for girls ages 5-10 from the following school districts: Yakima, West Valley, Union Gap, Wapato, Zillah, Toppenish, Parker and White Swan. The program will include T-Ball, coach pitch, and player pitch divisions.

League President Ryan Yates notes that most girls in the area have to wait until age 10 to start playing softball, and the YVLLS will introduce younger girls to the sport so they can make a smooth transition. Yates is hoping to get the community involved with the league, and a board is being formed.

Registration starts 4-7 p.m. Feb. 7-8, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 11 at Kimmel Athletic, 2105 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima. Girls must be 10 before April 30 to register.

Registration: $50 for ages 5-6 (T-Ball), $75 for ages 7-8 (coach pitch), and $75 for ages 8-10 (player pitch).

For volunteer interest, email yakimasoftball@gmail.com or visit www.eteamz.com/yakimavalleylittleleague/.

Yakima Youth Track

Yakima Youth Track will provide a three week program July 11-27. The program is open to athletes in preschool on up, including adults.

The goal of the program is to let participants learn, practice and enhance skills for track and field and general conditioning.  Specific track and field events include speed development, flexibility, strength training, motivation and mental preparation.

Practices will be held 6:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays for preschool-5th grade, and 7:30-8:30 p.m. for 6th grade-adults.  All-comers track meets are scheduled for 6:30 p.m. July 13, 20, and 27.

The cost is $50 per participant, or $150 per family. There will be a $5 entry fee for all non-Yakima Youth Track members.

All activities will be held at East Valley High School, 1900 Beaudry Road, Yakima. Contact Jennifer Wells at 509-678-5680 or wellss@riversidechristian.net for more information.

Summer Sports

Check back regularly for updates!

 

GOLF

Introduction to Golf. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 21-July 14. Ages 6-15. River Ridge Golf Course, Selah. Call Selah Parks and Rec at 509-698-7302 to pre-register.

The First Tee of Yakima. The 2011 summer season begins on June 20 and runs through mid-August. For girls and boys age 5-high school. Weekly golf activities at various locations in Yakima, Toppenish and Granger. No golf experience necessary. Golf clubs are supplied. Summer fee: $50, and scholarships are available. The First Tee of Yakima: 509-949-6349. thefirstteeyakima.org

 

SOCCER

Yakima Athletic Club Summer Soccer Camps. Various camps, ages 3 and up. Each camp limited to 10 students. Yakima Athletic Club, 2501 Racquet Lane, Yakima; 509-453-6521; yakimaathleticclub.com

• June 20-23: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Ages 3-4. $45 members, $55 non-members.
• July 11-14: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Ages 5-6. $45 members, $55 non-members.
• July 18-21: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Grades 1-5. $85 members, $95 non-members.
• July 25-28: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Grades 6-8. $85 members, $95 non-members.

YMCA Soccer. Boys and girls, ages 6-12. July 11-Aug. 26. Games and practices take place at local Yakima School District fields. $45/$55/$65, depending on YMCA membership level. Fees include team jersey. Registration ends June 4.

 

SWIMMING

Lions Pool. Various classes and times offered. Schedule will change after June 30. Pool fees: $3.75 adult, $2 youth, $10 family. Three-month pass: $89 adult, $46 youth, $190 family. 509 W. Pine St., Yakima; 575-6046.

• Recreational Swimming. 3:15-4:45 p.m. Monday-Friday, 1-3 p.m. & 7-9 p.m. Saturdays.
• Baby and Me, for tots 6 months to 3 years, 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.

• Preschool H2O Play, 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.
• Funky Friday Nights (‘80s theme), 7-8:30 p.m. Fridays. Cost: $0.50 for kids, $1 adults, $0.75 seniors (62 and older), or $3.25 per family.
• Home-School Swim, which gives home-school students an opportunity to receive P.E. credits or just socialize with fellow home-schooled kids. Meets 1:30-3 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Yakima Athletic Club. 2501 Racquet Lane, Yakima; 509-453-6521; yakimaathleticclub.com

• Summer Swim Lessons Each session lasts 30 minutes and are separated by age groups, from preschool to children ages 6-14. $45 members, $55 non-members. Three morning sessions: 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12 p.m. Monday-Thursday June 20-June 30, July 11-21 & July 25-Aug. 4.  Two evening sessions: 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays June 21-July & July 19-Aug. 11.
• Parent Tot swimming. For children 4 months-2 ½ years, with parent. 30 minute classes. Two morning sessions: 10 a.m. June 24-July 8 & July 15-Aug. 5. Two evening sessions: 6 p.m. Tuesdays, June 21-July 12 & July 19-Aug. 9. Cost: $22 plus tax for members, $30 plus tax for non-members.

TENNIS

Little Hitters Teach and Play. 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Weekly sessions: June 21-23, June 28-30, July 12-14, July 19-21, Aug. 2-4, & Aug. 9-11. Yakima Athletic Club, 2501 Racquet Lane, Yakima; 509-453-6521. yakimaathleticclub.com

 

Tennis camp. 9 a.m.-noon, July 25-28. Learn tennis skills and play games, including water balloons and slip ‘n slide. Camp T-shirt and water bottle included. Ages 4-15. $70 members, $80 non-members. Yakima Athletic Club, 2501 Racquet Lane, Yakima; 509-453-6521.

 

Youth Tennis Lessons. Boys and girls, grades 3-8. Instruction on forehand, backhand, serve and net play. Bring a racket and a can of unopened tennis balls. Session 1, June 14-24; 9-10 a.m. for grades 3-5 & 10-11 a.m. for grades 6-8. Session 2, July 19-29; 9-10 a.m. for grades 3-5 & 10-11 a.m. for grades 6-8. $26/$36/$46, depending on residency. Carlon Park Tennis Courts, Selah. Call Selah Parks and Rec at 509-698-7302.

 

BASKETBALL

YVCC camp. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Two four-day skills camps, June 13-15 for boys and girls grades 7-10, and June 20-23 for boys and girls grades 2-6. Sherar Gym, Yakima Valley Community College Campus, Yakima. For info and to register go to www.yvcc.edu/athletics or call 509-574-4726.

Eisenhower basketball camp. June 13-16. For boys and girls, grades 2-9. Cost: $70. Hosted by Eisenhower boys basketball. Takes place at Ike Gym at Eisenhower High School. Contact Coach Schultz at 509-972-3668 for more information.

Other Sports

June 21-24: Intro to Skateboarding. 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Boys and girls, ages 6-12. Helmet required. Basic skateboarding techniques will be taught at Selah Skate Park, adjacent to the tennis courts at Carlon Park. $20/$26/$36, depending on residency. Selah Parks and Recreation; 509-698-7302.

June 21-Aug. 4: Junior Athletic Conditioning. 2-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Ages 9-11. Kids get fit and refine, improve, and coordinate their skills. $60 members, $70 non-members.

Get a Spring in Your Step!

Spring is officially here, so it’s time to get outside and get active!

Pick a playground – heck, pick several playgrounds – and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. You can also mix things up by getting involved in an organized program. Here are some options:

Yakima Greenway’s Kiddin’ Around Program Returns!

Many Yakima-area kids made fun memories at last year’s Kiddin’ Around program, earning incentive prizes (ranging from Yakima Bears tickets to YMCA youth memberships) by “cashing in” their participation points. This year Yakima Greenway is offering more programs than ever:

April 23: Yakima Kids’ Fish-In. 9 a.m.-2:45 p.m. Cost: $7 per child, ages 5-14, which includes a rod, reel, bait, and a T-shirt. Fish will be cleaned and bagged in ice on site. Registration limited first 1,000 sign-ups; deadline is April 22. Register by April 13 to reserve T-shirt size. Located at Reflection Pond at Sarg Hubbard Park, 111 S. 18th St., Yakima.

May 1: Golfin’ Around. 1-4 p.m. Boys and girls, ages 5-14. Learn the game of golf and have fun doing it. Equipment provided. Free. Pre-register by April 27. Sponsored by Yakima Parks and Recreation and The First Tee of Yakima. Call 949-6349 for registration.

May 1: See Spot Run. Race time 11 a.m. Starts and finishes at the Humane Society, 2405 W. Birchfield Rd., Yakima. Kids 10 and under free. Walk/run the 5K race with or without a dog. Pre-register at yakimahumane.org. Call 457-6854 for info.

May 7: Family Field Day. 1-4 p.m. A combination of fun activities and nutritional information, this free community event is designed to bring families together with physical activities, such as kayaking and canoeing, tennis, hula hoops, jump rope, soccer, obstacle course and tag. Check out fruit and vegetable sampling and nutritional games. All ages. Held by Subway, CWU’s Dietetic Internship, FitKids USA and the Yakima Greenway Foundation.

May 14: Hikin’ Around. 9-11 a.m. at Cowiche Canyon. Free. Guided hike starts at Weikel Rd. parking lot. Bring hiking shoes and water. Call 453-8280 to pre-register by May 12. cowichecanyon.org

May 20: Runnin’/Walkin’ Around. 5 p.m. registration, 6 p.m. start. Sarg Hubbard Park. Free. For kids and adults. Call 453-8280 to pre-register by May 18.

The program continues on June 4 with Gap2Gap and with many other events June-August, culminating on August 27-28 with the 3-on-3 basketball tournament in downtown Yakima. For more information, contact Program Coordinator Leslie Hatton at 453-8280. You can also e-mail info@yakimagreenway.org, or visit the website at http://yakimagreenway.org/kiddin_Around.htm

Plant a tree for Arbor Day

The Yakima Area Arboretum has several opportunities to get you and your family outside.

·      April 13: Join YAA for Arbor Day tree planting. Times and locations TBD.

·      April 16: “Circle of Life.” 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. This family event is fun, rewarding and educational, celebrating conservation and natural science. Thirty educational stations set up at the Arboretum with hands-on activities, live music, food vendors and critters.

1401 Arboretum Dr., Yakima. Call 248-7337 or email info@ahtrees.org. ahtrees.org

Play Ball Outside with the YMCA

Itty Bitty Sports: Outdoor Soccer: mid April to late May, and T-Ball: mid June to late July. Call Tyler at 972-5273 for details. Cost: $45-$65, depending on YMCA membership level. Games are played at local Yakima School district fields.

Youth Soccer. Registration begins in early March through early April. Soccer practice runs from mid-April to mid-June. Games are played in early May to early June.

Youth Flag Football. Registration begins in early April through late May. Each co-ed division is separated by age groups in Yakima and West Valley.

Youth Baseball. Registration starts in early April and ends late May. Yakima and West Valley divisions: Coach Pitch: 6-9 years old; Minors: 10-11 years old; Majors: 12 years old. Practices start in the middle of July until early September, and games are held from early July to late August.

Yakima Farmers’ Market opens May 8!

Another great way to get outside is to head to the Yakima Farmers’ Market and buy farm fresh products. The market opens right on Mother’s Day, May 8. Open each Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., through Oct. 30. Located on Third Street, in the block south of Yakima Avenue, in front of The Capitol Theatre. 457-5765. yakimafarmersmarket.org

Fisher Park’s 2011 Season Just Opened!

Fisher Park’s 2011 season opened on March 25, and there’s plenty of offerings to satisfy aspiring golfers and golf enthusiasts:

Junior Golf Lessons. Boys and girls, ages 7-18. Learn proper etiquette, swings, stance and gain confidence. Ages 7-12 meet 4:15-5:30 p.m. Wed. and Thur., April 27-May 5 and May 25-June 2. Ages 13-18 meet 4:15-5:30 p.m. Wed. and Thur., May 11-May 19 and June 8-June 16. Cost: $44 for residents, $53 for non-residents.

Women’s Only Golf Lessons. 16 years and older. For beginners and slightly more experienced women golfers. Meets 6-7:30 p.m. Wed. and Thur., April 27-May 5; 2:30-4 p.m. Wed. and Thur., May 25-June 2; 6-7:30 p.m. Wed. and Thur., June 8-June 16. Cost: $58 for residents, $70 for non-residents.

Pee Wee Golf Lessons. Boys and girls, ages 4-5. Introduce your preschooler to golf! Golf basics will be covered with fun games and activities. Class size limited to four students. Meets 3:30-4 p.m. Mondays, May 2-23; 3:30-4 p.m. May 10-31 and 3:30-4 p.m. May 13-June 3. Cost: $24 for residents, $29 for non-residents.

Golfin’ Around. Boys and girls, ages 5-14. Learn the game of golf, and have fun doing it. Equipment provided. Free. Sun., May 1 at 1 p.m. Pre-register by April 26. Sponsored by Yakima Parks and Recreation and The First Tee of Yakima. Call 949-6349.

Friday Night Glow Ball. Play all nine holes in the dark, using a glow ball and glow sticks. The event is scheduled for 8 p.m. June 3, but the registration deadline is one week prior. Cost: $25 each, which includes the greens fee, one glow ball and glow stick, a glow-in-the-dark necklace and light snacks.

Fisher Golf Course, 823 S. 40^th Ave., Yakima.  Call 575-6075.

“Try Free Hockey Weekend” Feb. 19

Yakima Amateur Hockey Association Hosts “Try Hockey Free Weekend” Feb. 19

Kids, get out your hockey sticks and ice skates! No, you don’t have to travel out of town to play hockey; now’s your chance to get out on the ice in town.

The Yakima Amateur Hockey Association (YAHA), a nonprofit organization that aims to increase kids’ interest and awareness in ice hockey around Yakima, is getting ready to host its “Try Hockey Free Weekend.” The event will start at 10 a.m. Feb. 19 at the Yakima Ice Rink, and is sponsored by USA Hockey.

Tyler Nostrant, a board member of YAHA, says that normally Yakima residents take a road trip to Tri-Cities because there are more offerings and facilities for hockey there.

But Nostrant and others want to change that and give hockey enthusiasts the opportunity to play and train in Yakima.

“We’re trying to get interest in the community, especially younger kids,” Nostrant said.

The “Try Hockey Free Weekend” is open to anyone interested in trying hockey. Participants can expect to experience a series of skill-boosting lesson plans for different areas on the ice.

YAHA now also offers a learn-to-skate program Mondays at 6 p.m. and beginning hockey practices Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m.

Yakima’s Ice Rink is located at 1700 E. Beech St., Yakima. 509-469-0597. yakimaicerink.com

For more information on the nationwide Hockey Weekend Across America event, visit usahockey.com/HWAA/default.aspx.

Time for Sports!

Here’s the round-up of Winter/Spring 2011 sports offerings around the area:

BASEBALL

Beginner Pee Wee T-Ball. Boys and girls, ages 4-5. This introduction workshop includes 30 minutes of instruction followed by a 30-minute game. Meets 6:15-7:15 p.m. Wednesdays, March 23-April 13 at the Gateway Sports Complex at Kiwanis Park. Cost: $15-$20, depending on residency. Register by March 14 with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 575-6020.

Selah T-Ball. Boys and girls, ages 5-7. Teams will be assigned and games played on T-Ball fields once a week, with one to two practices each week. League play in May and June at Lince Field, 316 W. Naches Ave., Selah. Cost: $35-$55, depending on residency. Register February 28-March 30 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

BASKETBALL

Little Dribblers. Boys and girls, ages 4-6. Basketball basics, including dribbling and passing, sportsmanship and teamwork will be taught. Group exercises and games will promote coordination and balance. Parents are encouraged to assist. Meets 6-6:45 p.m. Mondays from Jan. 17-Feb. 21 at the Selah Civic Center. Cost: $31-$45, depending on residency. Register with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

FOOTBALL

Selah Youth Flag Football. Boys and girls, grades 3-6. Boys and girls will play together in this no-tackle, pass-only league with six on a side. Two divisions: Grades 3-4 and grades 5-6. League play will be in May and June at Lince Field, 316 W. Naches Ave., Selah. Cost: $43-$65, depending on residency; includes a T-shirt. Register March 14-April 11 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

SOCCER

Indoor Tiny Tykes Soccer. Boys and girls, ages 4-5. Introduce soccer basics in a warm, dry environment. Meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Feb. 15-24 at Whitney Elementary. Cost: $28-34, depending on residency, includes T-shirt. Register with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima. 575-6020.

Itty Bitty Soccer League. Boys and girls, ages 3-4. Parent-child class teaches kids the fundamentals of dribbling, passing and shooting. Learn teamwork, make new friends and play games. Meets from 6-6:45 p.m. Thursdays, April 7-28 at Chesterley Park. Cost is $40-$48, depending on residency; includes a T-shirt and ball. Register with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima. 575-6020.

YMCA Itty Bitty Soccer. Boys and girls, ages 3-6. Games and practices in YMCA Shinn Gym. 5:30-6:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday nights. Cost is $35-$55, depending on YMCA membership level. Session: Jan. 18-Feb. 24. Registration open until Jan. 12.

Spring Break Soccer Camp. Boys and girls, grades 1-8. High quality soccer coaching program teaches youth fundamental and advanced skills of the game. Sponsored by Yakima Parks and Rec and Sun City Strikers Club, this 3-day camp runs Mar. 29-31 at Chesterley Park. Two sessions: 8 a.m. to 12 noon, & 1-5 p.m. Cost is $60-$72, depending on residency, includes water, snacks, and a T-shirt. Register with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima. 575-6020.

Selah Football Club Spring Soccer League. Boys and girls, grades K-6. Weeknights & Saturdays, March 13-April 24 in Selah. Cost: $42-$60, depending on residency; $4 late fee after Feb. 19. Jersey replacement fee is $15, if play has outgrown or lost jersey from fall season. Register Feb. 1-18 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Selah Tiny Tots Intro to Soccer. Boys and girls, ages 3-5. Meets 10-10:45 a.m. Saturdays, March 12-April 23, at Lince Play Field, across Naches Ave. from Lince Elementary in Selah. Cost: $38-$50, depending on residency; includes a T-shirt. Register Feb. 1-Feb. 18 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Upward Soccer Program (West Valley). Boys and girls, ages 4 through grade 6. Promotes fundamental soccer skills and building self-esteem, giving each child equal playing time and recognition. Season runs for 10 weeks, with practices one hour per week and games on 8 Saturdays, from March 14-May 22. Early registration is Dec. 13 until Jan. 24, 2011. Registration cost: $70, which includes a full uniform (shorts, jersey, and socks). The deadline for late registration, which costs $80, is Jan. 31, 2011. Contact Lisa at 966-1550, ext. 60 or upward@westvalleychurch.com. West Valley Church, 7109 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. westvalleychurch.com.

SWIM LESSONS

Lions Pool. Various classes and times offered. Pool fees: $3.75 adult, $2 youth, $10 family. Three-month pass: $89 adult, $46 youth, $190 family. 509 W. Pine St., Yakima; 575-6046.

• Recreational Swimming. Schedule now until Feb. 20: 1:30-3 p.m. Saturdays and 7-9 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 5-6:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Starting Feb. 21: 3:15-4:45 p.m. Monday-Friday, 1-3 p.m. & 7-9 p.m. Saturdays.
• Baby and Me, for tots 6 months to 3 years, 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.
• Preschool H2O Play, 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.
• Funky Friday Nights (‘80s theme), 7-8:30 p.m. Fridays. Cost: $0.50 for kids, $1 adults, $0.75 seniors (62 and older), or $3.25 per family.
• Home-School Swim, which gives home-school students an opportunity to receive P.E. credits or just socialize with fellow home-schooled kids, begins Feb. 21. Meets 1:30-3 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

YMCA Swim Lessons. Ages 6 months and up. Parent/child classes are offered for children ages 6 months and up. Session: Jan. 24-Feb. 16. Two times: 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Call for cost and other information. Yakima Family YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima; 248-1202. yakimaymca.org.

WINTER FUN AT WHITE PASS

White Pass Kids’ Clinic. Boys and girls, ages 5-12. Full-day skiing or snowboarding clinics with specialized children’s instructors. Sessions offered Jan. 15, 16, 29, and 30; Feb. 12, 13, 26, and 27; Mar. 12, 13, 26, and 27. Cost: $85 single day, $120 weekend; includes lunch, snacks and lift tickets. Register with The Learning Center at White Pass, 509-672-3101.

Ski 4 Kids Race Weekend. Open to intermediate skiers and riders, ages 6-12. All-day training on Saturday, races on Sunday followed by awards ceremony and hot dog banquet. Winter Carnival, Mar. 5-6. For more information, call The Learning Center at White Pass, 509-672-3101.

SPECIAL OFFERINGS

Family Open Gym. Open for families who love sports, including basketball, whiffle ball, volleyball and more. Meets 4-6 p.m. the first and third Sunday of each month through April at the Sunset Gym in Selah. Cost: Free. Register with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Horsemanship Class. Ages 5 and up. Beginning class teaches the nature of horses and covers safety, grooming, leading, haltering, saddling, bridling and mounting. Participants will also play games and make a stick horse. Meets 3:30-4:30 p.m. Two sessions: Tuesdays, Jan. 11-Feb. 1; and Tuesdays, Feb. 15-Mar. 8. Cost: $25-$35, depending on residency. Register with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Indoor Preschool Playtime. For preschoolers and parents. Time allows for kids to play and parents to meet other parents. Bring own trikes or wheeled toys. Meets 10 a.m. to noon Wednesdays, from Jan. 6-Mar. 24 at Selah Civic Center. Call for availability. Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

KIDS Intro to Rock Climbing. Learn basic skills of rock climbing and how to Top Rope Belay. Meets 10 a.m. to 12 noon Feb. 5 at Central Washington University’s Rock Wall in Ellensburg. Cost: $20 per participant. Register with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Snowy Selections

Brrr, it’s still cold outside!  But that’s good news for those of you wanting to get out in the snow and have some fun.  Here are a few selections:

Cardboard Snow Sled Derby. Create a sled and race as a team of 2-5 people. Sleds judged on speed and artistry/construction. Check-in at 12:30 p.m.; begins 1 p.m. Jan. 23. Location TBD. Cost: $5 per sled entry; includes cookies and hot cocoa. Pre-registration required. Contact Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 575-6020.

Snow Sculpture Family Challenge. Families of all ages are encouraged to participate in the first Snow Sculpture challenge. Each family is allowed 90 minutes to build any type of snow sculpture they wish. Bring your own construction tools. Meets 1-2:30 p.m. Jan. 23; judging begins at 2:30 p.m. Location TBD. Cost: Free, and cookies and hot cocoa are provided. Pre-registration required. Contact Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 575-6020.

White Pass Kids’ Clinic. Boys and girls, ages 5-12. Full-day skiing or snowboarding clinics with specialized children’s instructors. Sessions offered Jan. 15, 16, 29, and 30; Feb. 12, 13, 26, and 27; Mar. 12, 13, 26, and 27. Cost: $85 single day, $120 weekend; includes lunch, snacks and lift tickets. Register with The Learning Center at White Pass, 509-672-3101.

Ski 4 Kids Race Weekend. Open to intermediate skiers and riders, ages 6-12. All-day training on Saturday, races on Sunday followed by awards ceremony and hot dog banquet. Winter Carnival, Mar. 5-6. For more information, call The Learning Center at White Pass, 509-672-3101.

Upward Soccer Program in West Valley

The Upward Soccer Program at West Valley Church will open its early registration on Dec. 13 until Jan. 24, 2011. The registration cost is $70, which includes a full uniform (shorts, jersey, and socks). The deadline for late registration, which costs $80, is Jan. 31, 2011.

The Upward Soccer program is aimed for kids from age 4 through 6th grade. It promotes learning fundamental soccer skills and building self-esteem, and gives every child equal playing time and recognition. The season runs for 10 weeks, with practices one hour per week and games on 8 Saturdays.

Visit www.westvalleychurch.com to register. Contact Lisa at 966-1550, ext. 60 or upward@westvalleychurch.com for more information.

Aquatics at Lions Pool

We may be in cold-weather season, but Lions Pool still has plenty of aquatics offerings through the rest of fall and winter. Pool fees: $3.75 adult, $2 youth, $10 family. Three-month pass: $89 adult, $46 youth, $190 family. Lions Pool, 509 W. Pine St., Yakima; 509-575-6046.

• Recreational swimming, 1:30-3 p.m. Saturdays and 7-9 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 5-6:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
• Baby and Me, for tots 6 months-3 years, 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Preschool H2O Play, 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Funky Friday Nights (’80s theme), 7-8:30 p.m. Fridays. Cost: $0.50 for kids, $1 adults, $0.75 seniors (62 and older), or $3.25 per family.

Fall Sports!

FALL SPORTS 2010

BASKETBALL

EASTSIDE YOUTH SPORTS BASKETBALL CAMP | Boys and girls, ages 7-12. Free program for youth who live east of 16th Avenue in Yakima, or in Union Gap. Meets 6-7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Nov. 3-19, at the YMCA. Register at Yakima Family YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima; contact Ricardo Torres, 972-5278.

ITTY BITTY BASKETBALL | Boys and girls, ages 3-6. Learn basic skills while focusing on teamwork and sportsmanship. Ages 3-4 meet 5:30-6:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, Nov. 2-Dec. 16; ages 5-6 meet 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Nov. 2-Dec. 16. Cost: $35 with YMCA Family Membership, $45 YMCA member, $55 non-member. Volunteer coaches needed. Registration closes Oct. 18. Register at Yakima Family YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima; contact Tyler Johnson, 972-5273.

LITTLE DRIBBLERS — SELAH | Boys and girls, ages 4-6. Learn basic basketball skills, as well as sportsmanship and teamwork. Group exercises and games. Parent assistance encouraged. Meets 6-6:45 p.m. Mondays, Nov. 1-Dec. 6 at Selah Civic Center, 216 S. First St. Cost: $28-$38, depending on residency. Register with Selah Parks: 698-7302.

YOUTH BASKETBALL | Boys and girls, grades 1-6. West Valley and Yakima divisions. Weeknight practices begin Nov. 13. Teams play games starting in January. Cost: $45 with YMCA Family Membership, $55 YMCA members, $65 non-member. Registration opens Oct. 1. Volunteer coaches needed. Register at Yakima Family YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima; contact Tyler Johnson, 972-5273.

YOUTH BASKETBALL — SELAH | Boys and girls, grades 1-6. One evening practice each week with games on Saturdays. Practices begin the first week of December. League play is Jan. 8-Feb. 26. Cost: $38-$50, depending on residency; $4 late fee after Nov. 12. Registration opens Oct. 18 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St.; 698-7302.

SOCCER

ITTY BITTY SOCCER LEAGUE | Boys and girls, ages 3-4. Learn fundamentals including teamwork, passing and dribbling in a fun environment. Meets 6-6:45 p.m. Tuesdays, Oct. 5-26, at the Gateway softball fields at Kiwanis Park, Fair Avenue and E. Maple, Yakima. Cost: $40 Yakima residents, $48 non-resident; includes a T-shirt and ball. Yakima Parks, 575-6020.

PEE WEE SOCCER LEAGUE | Boys and girls, ages 5-6. Designed to teach and improve basic soccer skills and encourage sportsmanship in a non-competitive atmosphere. Meets 6-7:15 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 7-28, at the Gateway softball fields at Kiwanis Park, Fair Avenue and E. Maple, Yakima. Cost: $40 Yakima residents, $48 non-resident; includes a T-shirt and ball. Yakima Parks, 575-6020.

SWIMMING

AQUATICS. Recreational swimming, Saturdays 1:30-3 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 5-6:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Baby and Me, for tots 6 months-3 years, 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Preschool H2O Play, 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Funky Friday Nights (’80s theme), 7:00-8:30 p.m. Fridays, with a special fee. Pool fees: $3.75 adult, $2 youth, $10 family. 3-month pass: $89 adult, $46 youth, $190 family. Lions Pool, 509 W. Pine St., Yakima; 575-6046.

SWIM LESSONS AT LIONS POOL | Evening swim lessons for children ages 3 and up; Tiny Tots class for parents and children ages 6 months to 3 years. Lessons for 3-5 years, 6+ also available.Eight-class sessions meet Mondays and Wednesdays for four weeks: Sept. 13-Oct. 6, Oct. 11-Nov. 3, Nov. 8-Dec. 1. Cost: $30 Yakima residents, $37 non-resident. Lions Pool, 509 W. Pine St., Yakima; 575-6046.

VOLLEYBALL

YMCA YOUTH VOLLEYBALL CAMP | Boys and girls, ages 7-12. Meets two evenings a week, Oct. 25-Nov. 17. Cost: $25 with YMCA Family Membership, $35 YMCA members, $45 non-members. Registration closes Oct. 16. Register at Yakima Family YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima; contact Tyler Johnson, 972-5273.

Kick Back with Karate and a Movie

By Scott Klepach, Jr.

Photo courtesy of the Yakima Greenway

We all know about having popcorn with a movie, but what about a little bit of karate first?

Pro-Action Family Martial Arts is offering just that Aug. 7, as it hosts its “Martial Arts Night & Movie” at Sarg Hubbard Park in partnership with Yakima Parks & Recreation and the Yakima Greenway’s “Kiddin’ Around” program.

The free event begins at 7:30 p.m. with a demonstration and brief class, and at sunset a family-friendly martial arts movie will be shown.

“Our involvement in the Kid Fit programming at the Greenway has been fun and exciting for both our school, the staff at the Greenway, and most importantly, the kids of Yakima,” said Ernie Brennecke, senior instructor – or sensei – at Pro-Action. “Last time we did something like this, the attendance was significant, and I play best with and to large audiences.”

Last year, more than 100 kids participated in the event. The opening demonstration is aimed at giving the public a peek at what karate is all about.

“So we don’t just do something, but we talk about what we’re doing, too,” said Erik Brennecke, Ernie’s son and a sensei with Pro-Action. 

Following the demo, the Brenneckes, along with other instructors and students, will hold a 10-minute class for kids. While last year’s class was aerobic-based, this year’s will focus on self-defense.

“We’re going to keep it basic. We like to teach basic risk escape, and maybe some palm strikes,” said Brennecke, who noted punching with a fist takes conditioning. “This is for the kids to get excited about karate.”

All ages are welcome. For more information, contact the Yakima Greenway at 509-453-8280, or visit yakimagreenway.org.

UK International Soccer Camps

The Yakima Youth Soccer Association and UK International Soccer Camps will offer several Yakima day camps in August.

Half-day and full-day camps will each be offered for two sessions: Aug. 2-6 and Aug. 16-20. Register at least 10 days prior to camp.

UK Classic Camp will meet from 9 a.m. to noon. Open to players ages 4-14. Cost is $100.

UK Classic Camp Full Day will meet from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 2-6. Open to players ages 8-14. Cost is $150.

All camps will meet at the Perry Soccer Complex, 2011 W. Washington Ave., Yakima.

To register, or for more information, visit www.uksocca.com.

Ike to host volleyball camp

IKE VOLLEYBALL CAMP | Boys and girls, entering grades 5-9. Eisenhower High’s volleyball coach Brad Ackerman will lead an after-school volleyball camp for players of all skill levels. Meets 3:30-6 p.m. June 1-3 at the Ike gymnasium. Cost: $50; includes T-shirt, ball, instruction and snacks. Register by May 22. Call 573-2629 or download a registration form at ikevball.com.

Pee Wee Golf Lessons

PEE WEE GOLF LESSONS | Boys and girls, ages 4-5. Preschoolers can learn the basics of golf through games and activities. Classes limited to four participants. Meets 4-4:30 p.m. at Fisher Golf Course, 823 S. 40th Ave., Yakima. Three sessions offered: Mondays, May 3-24; Tuesdays, May 11 to June 1; or Fridays, May 14 to June 4. Cost: $24-$29, depending on residency. To register, call Yakima Parks at 575-6075.

Skateboard Classes

SKATEBOARD CLASSES | Boys and girls, grades 1-9. Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 6-29. Grades 6-9 meet from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Grades 1-5 meet from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Cost: $20-$30, depending on residency. Participants need to supply their own equipment; helmets are required. Register with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Itty Bitty Soccer

ITTY BITTY SOCCER | Boys and girls, ages 3-4. Feet-on workshop introduces soccer fundamentals. Parent participation encouraged. Meets 6-6:45 p.m. Tuesdays, April 6 to May 4 at Chesterley Park. Cost: $40-$48, depending on residency; includes T-shirt and ball. Register with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 575-6020.

Pee Wee Soccer

PEE WEE SOCCER | Boys and girls, ages 5-6. Learn and improve basic soccer skills and encourage sportsmanship with noncompetitive games. Meets 6-7:15 p.m. Thursdays, April 8 to May 6 at Chesterley Park. Cost: $40-$48, depending on residency; includes a T-shirt and ball. Register with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 575-6020.

Selah Youth Flag Football

SELAH YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL | Boys and girls, grades K-6. Boys and girls will play together in this no-tackle, pass-only league with six on a side. Two divisions: Grades 3-4 and grades 5-6. League play will be in May and June at Lince Field, 316 W. Naches Ave., Selah. Cost: $42-$60, depending on residency; includes a T-shirt. Register March 15-April 9 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Junior Golf Lessons

JUNIOR GOLF LESSONS | Boys and girls, ages 6-12. Improve stance and skills with afternoon small-group lessons that will meet Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout the spring. Cost: $44-$53, depending on residency, for four sessions. Meets at Fisher Golf Course, 823 S. 40th Ave., Yakima. To register, call Yakima Parks at 575-6075.

Beginner Pee Wee T-Ball

BEGINNER PEE WEE T-BALL | Boys and girls, ages 4-5. This introduction workshop includes 30 minutes of instruction followed by a 45-minute game. Meets 6:15-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, March 24 to April 14 at the Gateway Sports Complex at Kiwanis Park. Cost: $15-$20, depending on residency. Register by March 12 with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 575-6020.

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