You may hear a lot about the J’s adult sports leagues – the legendary Men’s Softball Program has been going strong for more than 75 years, and our pick-up sports give adults a great chance to let off steam and enjoy time with friends throughout the week.
But you can find some of the biggest crowds cheering on the J’s youth athletes on our Blue Jays and Little Blue Jays baseball, soccer, and basketball teams. In 2019, the Blue Jays saw their highest enrollment in nearly 20 years in both baseball and basketball. These teams attract incredible supporters, welcoming parents, siblings, grandparents, friends, and more. Imagine a crowd of nearly 100 people cheering on our kindergarten-age basketball players!
These supportive fans and the care and dedication of the Blue Jays’ and Little Blue Jays’ coaches have helped our young athletes win league or division titles in basketball, baseball, and soccer in recent years. Most importantly though, they’ve learned the value of hard work, the importance of teamwork, and formed lasting memories and friendships with their teammates and coaches.
The physical benefits of sports for kids is well documented. According to the National Council of Youth Sports, physical activity releases endorphins, reduces stress, and stimulates norepinephrine, which improves mood. When kids get their exercise through organized sports, they also reap social and emotional benefits: creating a sense of community, improving social skills, and building resilience.
Want to help support the J’s Blue Jays teams? Beginning in mid-February, bring your gently used cleats to donate to the JCC Blue Jays youth baseball and soccer teams! Cleats in youth sizes 6 – 13 are needed – just no metal spikes, please! If you’re feeling motivated to clean out your closets this new year, be sure to share any cleats you may have with our talented Blue Jays!
