Taylor Family YMCA taking fall soccer registration

The Taylor Family YMCA is currently registering children in prekindergarten to fifth grade for the fall soccer league.

Young soccer players are introduced to the fundamentals of the game in the soccer leagues. Players are led by YMCA volunteers in drills and soccer games that teach the basic offensive and defensive skills and positions of soccer.

Players will have fun while developing an appreciation for sports and physical activity. They will practice skills while learning sportsmanship and teamwork.

The YMCA believes that character development is an essential element of sports. Caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith are valued on and off the field. In YMCA sports, everyone plays and everyone plays fair. We put safety first and emphasize positive competition. YMCA sports are for all and are played for fun.

Family involvement is encouraged. Parents become part of the Y community and enjoy supporting their children together at practices and games. Parents and friends can also be helpful as volunteer coaches, officials and timekeepers.

There are three divisions: Munchkins: 4-5 (pre-K to kindergarten); Rookies: 6-7 (first and second grade); and Winners: 8-10 (third to fifth grade).

The 2015 Fall League will be Aug. 31 to Oct. 17. The fee is $60 for members or $80 for program participants.

It is held at Town Center Park in Gilberts. Practices are once a week (either Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday), and games are Saturday mornings.

Registration is now open; visit www.taylorymca.org.

The YMCA provides soccer balls for use during practice and games. Jersey fees are included in the cost of the program and your child will receive one prior to the first game. Soccer cleats are preferred, but not mandatory. Shin guards are mandatory.

The YMCA Youth Sports vision is to encourage children to do their personal best in an environment geared toward developing confidence and respect for their coaches, families, peers, community, and the game they play. All of the youth sports programs are noncompetitive, so they can focus on the growth of the individual rather than winning and losing.

For details, contact Brad Duewel at (224) 699-5802 or email bradd@gcfymca.org.