The start of every school year is marked with back-to-school sales and dentist and doctor appointments, but what is often overlooked is not what takes place during school, but when the bell rings at the end of the day. Once children’s homework is complete, most children get on the computer or sit in front of the television. The Y offers enrichment through many sports, teen programs, alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention programs, cheerleading, hip-hop, swimming, teen fitness and even programs to build self esteem in girls by training them to complete a 5K run. All of our programs incorporate the Y’s core values of caring, respect, responsibility, honesty and faith. These values help each participant build character which they will carry with them through the years.
Hip Hop and Cheerleading
Hip Hop and Cheerleading will run Sept. 28 through Dec. 18 Routines and cheers will be performed during basketball games which are played on Saturday’s. Hip Hop will be divided into 2 age groups-7-11 and middle school. Ages 7-11 will meet on Thurs. from 6:15-7:15 p.m. Middle school will meet from 6:15-7:15 p.m. on Tues. Must have 5 students to hold class. Basic cheers and moves will be learned. Open to ages 5-15 years of age. Groups will be divided by ages, in class. Class meets every Wed. time to be announced. Fees for each class per 12 week session are $42 for Primary Plus, $60 Primary and $120 for others. These fees can be paid in 2 installments. First installment due Sept. 28 of $21, $30 or $60. Second installment due Nov. 2.
Volleyball Camp
Learn the fundamentals of volleyball, make new friends and learn to work together as a team through a month long camp which will meet on Monday’s and Wednesday’s from 6:15-7:15. Experience is not necessary for this camp which will run from Sept. 20 thru Oct. 20. This camp is for ages 10-14. Fees for camp are $18 for primary plus, $25 for primary and $50 for others.
Church Basketball League
One of the Y’s core values is faith. Bring your church together for team building and fellowship in our church basketball league. Must be 14 years to play. League begins Sept. 23 and runs thru Nov. 4. Games will be played on Thursday’s between 6 and 10 p.m. $175 per team.
Girls on the Run
This 8 week program weaves training for a 5K run with lessons that empower girls to celebrate their bodies, honor their voices and embrace their gifts. The Portage Township YMCA is now enrolling girl’s ages 10-14 in this new 8 week program called “Girls on the Run”. This program will run September 20 thru November 4 and will be held every Tues. and Thurs. 6:15 – 7:30 pm. On October 30, the program participants will run their 5K. Fees for this program are $35 for Primary plus YMCA members, $50 for Primary members and $75 for non-members.
Youth Basketball Dribble, Shoot, Score!
Learn the fundamentals in this character building youth basketball league. League runs Oct. 25 –Dec.18. League is for children ages 3-12. Registration is now open. Practices one night a week with games played on Saturday’s.
Taekwondo
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art and the national sport of South Korea. The modern martial art is characterized by its fast, high and spinning kicks. Tues. & Thurs. 4-5 p.m. For children ages 6-13. First month $75. Cost includes ATA Membership and Gi. Continuing monthly fees $35 Primary Plus, $50 Primary, $100 non-members
Gymnastics
Calling all gymnasts to register now for their fall gymnastic programs. The Y offers gymnastics for children ages 2-15 years of age, beginner to team. These classes run monthly and there is no experience necessary. The Portage Township YMCA gymnastics program has been one of the longest running programs in the area. With the recently expanded facility, all of the classes except for team are located in the YMCA building.
Just for Fun
Play, Create, Explore and Learn in this fun new class for 3-5 year olds. Class incorporates playtime with crafts and stories. This class runs every Monday from 11:45am – 12:45pm. Parents do not need to be present.
Register for a Primary Membership for only $70 per year to save on all programs. Financial assistance is available to those in need, to ensure that every child and teen has the opportunity to learn and grow at the Y. For details regarding these programs, please contact the Y at 219-762-9622 or at info@ymcaofportage.org. For more information, explore our website at www.ymcaofportage.org or fan the Portage Township YMCA on Facebook.