City’s Winter Playbook Opens for Youth Soccer and Basketball Registration

October 01, 2024

During the City of Tallahassee's winter sports season, there's a familiar warmth to the air, gifted by the joy of children in brightly colored jerseys excitedly passing the ball and scoring goals. Soon, families will again be unfolding lawn chairs along the sidelines and squeezing together in bleachers to cheer for their kids as they participate in the City's beloved youth soccer and basketball leagues. Registration is open through October 23.

Youth Soccer
Soccer is offered for kids of nearly all ages, with coed teams available for ages 4-14 and all-girls teams available for ages 6-17. Practices begin on Saturday, Nov. 16, with one weeknight and Saturday practice each week. Practices are held at convenient locations around the City, including the Meadows Soccer Complex and Tom Brown, Levy and Meridian parks, selected at the time of registration.

Soccer isn't just about the game - it's about developing skills and confidence. For Juliet, a 12-year-old player in the all-girls league, the sport has been a journey of personal growth. "I enjoyed soccer because I got to see how I could push myself farther than I ever dreamed possible," she shared. While she happily takes on any field position, Juliet found joy in playing defense and credits her coach for making her experience even more rewarding.

Soccer games will be played on Saturdays from January 4 through February 22 at various parks nearest to selected practice locations. Registration for soccer is currently open through Wednesday, Oct. 23. For additional information about league divisions, game locations, fees and equipment or to register a child for youth soccer, visit Talgov.com/Parks.

Youth Basketball
Coed and all-girls basketball is offered for kids ages 8-17, with teams divided into three age groups. Practices begin on Tuesday, Nov. 12, at convenient locations around the city, including Jack McLean, Jake Gaither and Lawrence-Gregory community centers and Deerlake, Montford and Swift Creek middle schools, selected at the time of registration. The all-girls league will be held at the Sue McCollum Community Center. Basketball games will be played on weeknights from January 8 through March 7 and are played citywide against teams at all registration locations.

For many players, the basketball court is a space where friendships are formed. Ziyah, a 12-year-old player, emphasized the social and educational rewards of the game. "Playing basketball for the City comes with many benefits. You get to make new friends and learn how to play basketball," she shared. For Ziyah and many others, the camaraderie and teamwork make the sport truly special.

The Lil' Hoopsters Basketball Fundamental Program is also offered for kids ages 4-7 at the Lawrence-Gregory Community Center. Players meet for six weeks on Saturday mornings from January 18 through February 22.

For younger athletes, like 8-year-old Kelderick Jr., the Lil' Hoopsters program offers an exciting introduction to the game. "I love Lil' Hoopster's," he said. "I learned a lot of stuff, like how to dribble and shoot the ball correctly." This program prepared Kelderick Jr. for the junior basketball league this winter season.

Registration for youth basketball and Lil' Hoopsters is currently open through Wednesday, Oct. 23. For additional information about league divisions, game locations, fees and equipment or to register a child for youth basketball, visit Talgov.com/Parks.

Volunteer Coaching Opportunities
Volunteer coaches are greatly needed for youth soccer and basketball. If a parent volunteers to coach, the registration fee for their child on the team will be waived. By coaching youth sports, volunteers are positively contributing to a child's mental and physical wellbeing, building their confidence and teaching the valuable skills of the sport, teamwork and communication. Those interested in volunteering as a youth soccer or basketball coach should contact the City's Athletics Division staff at 850-891-3866.

Coaching in the City leagues is a passion for David West, who returns year after year to teach young athletes. "I look forward to coaching City league soccer every year," said Coach David, describing the joy he gets from witnessing his players' growth. "Seeing the players smile when they've finally kicked the ball just the way they want to or they've made a great save in the goal is something that warms my heart." For him, coaching is about creating connections and fostering a love for soccer. "Connecting with other players' parents and just having fun on the field makes coaching City league so rewarding."

Part-time Athletics Jobs
Officials, referees and concession stand staff are also needed year-round for both youth and adult sports. These are paid, part-time positions through the City of Tallahassee. Motivated and energetic individuals interested in applying should contact 850-891-3866.

"Refereeing gives me the chance to support the growth and development of young athletes," said long-time City sports official Roshandra Jones. "It's rewarding to know I can make a positive impact on both the game and many of the young players. As a former athlete myself, it's truly a rewarding way to stay active and stay involved in the many sports the City has to offer. It's also a plus that I get paid to do what I love and enjoy."

There are several ways to get involved with a variety of sports, programs and events each season, including winter adult basketball and beach volleyball. Visit Talgov.com/Parks to see a full list of offerings available through the City of Tallahassee.