Madison Area YMCA Hosts Project SPARK Day to Promote Positive Youth Sports Experiences

The Madison Area YMCA, in partnership with Project SPARK, will host SPARK Day on Tuesday, August 25, from 6–7 p.m. at the Madison Area YMCA Family Center, 111 Kings Road, Madison. The no-fee event will bring together young athletes ages 6–12 and their parents or guardians for an evening focused on creating healthy, positive youth sports experiences.

Project SPARK is a research-based initiative founded by Chatham High School senior Dhara Ashar in concurrence with the Madison Area YMCA to help parents foster a lifelong love of physical activity in their children through positive youth sports experiences. Drawing on research and guidance from organizations including the Aspen Institute, U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Project SPARK promotes healthy, safe and inclusive environments where young athletes can develop skills, confidence and a lasting enjoyment of physical activity.

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"Project SPARK grew from my interest in helping families think about youth sports not simply in terms of competition or achievement, but as an opportunity to build confidence, healthy habits and a positive relationship with physical activity that can last a lifetime," said Ashar. "SPARK Day gives parents and kids the opportunity to experience those ideas together—parents can learn more about how to support their young athletes while kids are reminded that being active should, first and foremost, be fun."

During SPARK Day, parents will hear from Mark Semioli, a former American professional soccer defender and U.S. Open Cup and American Professional Soccer League champion. Semioli will share insights from his lifelong experience in sports and discuss ways parents can support youth sports participation and athletic development without creating unnecessary pressure.

Parents will also have an opportunity to ask Semioli questions during the event or submit questions in advance here.

While parents participate in the discussion, young athletes will take part in individual and team games in the YMCA's Sports Gymnasium designed to develop a variety of motor skills while emphasizing movement, teamwork and fun. Participants will also have opportunities to win prizes, including gift cards donated by local businesses such as McCools, Chatham Sandwich Shop and others.

"At the Madison Area YMCA, we want children to discover that physical activity can be something they enjoy throughout their lives, regardless of whether they choose to participate recreationally or competitively," said Jessica Gray, Senior Director, Program Operations at the Madison Area YMCA. "SPARK Day gives us an opportunity to engage both sides of the youth sports experience, helping children build skills and confidence through play while giving parents practical tools to encourage their development in a positive, age-appropriate way."

The SPARK Day program reflects Project SPARK's emphasis on physical literacy (helping children develop confidence, competence and motivation to be physically active) and encourages families to prioritize programs that emphasize teamwork, friendship and positive culture alongside athletic development.

Project SPARK Day

Tuesday, August 25, 2026; 6–7 PM
Madison Area YMCA Family Center Sports Gymnasium
111 Kings Road, Madison, NJ

The event is no-fee and is intended for Madison Area YMCA member youth ages 6–12 and their parents or guardians. Advance registration here is requested.

About the Madison Area YMCA

The Madison Area YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Serving individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds, the Y provides programs and services that promote belonging, foster well-being, and ensure access for all through Y Scholarships and community support. For more information about scholarships or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit our website at https://madisonareaymca.org/.