Youth Coach's Perspective: What Kids Have to Gain

“I made a goal!”—those exciting words from a beaming child provide enormous rewards for people involved in youth sports at the YMCA, and reinforce the belief the Y is making a difference, one “goal” at a time.

For Keith Fossland, YMCA coach and father of three, the goal is to give every child opportunities to succeed. “The beauty of team sports is when a player who needs to work hard learns something that makes them better. They get a great pass or assist from another. Confidence increases, and all the kids strive more.”

Y sports programs don’t just focus on skill-building and game improvement. While that’s certainly part of the program, the Y seeks to offer more, addressing the needs of the “whole” child. The skills are there, but so are the positive relationships that focus on teamwork and good sportsmanship. Like the old saying goes:  Winning isn’t everything.

“Boys and girls can learn from sports the confidence that takes them through success or failure,” Keith said. “You’re not always going to be the best at everything, but you believe in yourself.”

Spring Sports Leagues now are forming at neighborhood Ys for ages 4 and up to teen years:

• Soccer 
• Flag football
• Volleyball teams

For a great experience that goes beyond the game, register for a youth league before the March 5. You can learn more and sign up at ymcastlouis.org.