Youth Sports – YMCA of Snohomish County

The Mukilteo Y and Mukilteo Boys & Girls Club Team Up to Host Pickleball Tournament

Posted on July 9, 2025 by Abbey McGee

MUKILTEO, WA, July 9, 2025 – The Mukilteo Family YMCA and Mukilteo Boys & Girls Club are joining forces for the first-ever Pickleball Palooza on Saturday, July 26. With mixed doubles matches for all ages and skill levels, free T-shirts for participants, and delicious bake sales at both locations, this is more than just a tournament – it’s a celebration of community to support local youth.

“I think that the relationship between the Boys & Girls Club and the Y coming together is really exciting,” said Cynthia Kelly, Mukilteo Family YMCA Executive Director. “We’ve been super intentional about how we all serve kids in our community and make a difference so that we work together as opposed to against each other.”

The tournament consists of four different divisions: youth (ages 16 and under), beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Participants play a maximum of seven round robin matches and two medal rounds for the top placing teams. Round robin matches are played to 15, winning by one with 15-minute timers. Medal rounds play to 11, winning by two. The event is open to the community.

Beginner and youth divisions will be played at the Mukilteo Boys & Girls Club. Intermediate and advanced divisions will be played at the Mukilteo Family YMCA. Beginner and intermediate matches start at 9 am. Youth and advanced matches start at 1 pm.

There are approximately 120 individuals who play pickleball weekly at the Mukilteo Family YMCA. “This is a fun way to engage the pickleball community and celebrate in a certain way and just do something fun together with our neighbors across the street,” said Carl Funnell, Mukilteo Family YMCA Senior Director.

All proceeds from this event go towards supporting youth programs at the Mukilteo Family YMCA and the Mukilteo Boys & Girls Club.

Registration is open now until spots are filled. Registration for adults is $40 and $10 for youth. Financial assistance is available. More information can be found at ymca.link/pickleball-tournament. If you have any questions, please contact Carl Funnell at [email protected] or Cynthia Kelly at [email protected].

The Y Hosts its First-Ever Clash at Camp Casey

Posted on July 2, 2025 by Abbey McGee

EVERETT, WA, June 30, 2025. – The YMCA of Snohomish County is excited to announce the inaugural Clash at Camp Casey Flag Football Tournament, a dynamic one-day event set for Saturday, August 2, at the scenic YMCA Camp Casey Sports Fields in Coupeville, Whidbey Island. Open to boys and girls of all ages and experience levels, this festival-style tournament will feature fast-paced competition, team spirit, and family-friendly fun, all set on the beautiful shores of the Salish Sea.

“This is more than a tournament—it’s a celebration of youth sports and community,” said Chris Bellecourt, Association Director of Youth Sports, YMCA of Snohomish County. “We designed the Clash at Camp Casey to be a bridge from summer to fall, offering a competitive and inclusive environment for kids to grow, connect, and get ready for the season ahead.”

The event welcomes current and past YMCA Flag Football teams as well as youth athletes and teams from other leagues and organizations. The $175 team entry includes access to all tournament amenities, and players without teams can join the YMCA’s Free Agent List to be matched with a team.

“This is exactly the kind of opportunity that builds confidence and community,” said Jacob Hiatt, Flag Football Coordinator, YMCA of Snohomish County. “We’re not just running a tournament—we’re investing in young athletes. Every entry supports scholarships so more kids can experience the power of sports and belonging.”

Event Highlights:

Inclusive format for girls and boys of all skill levels
Preseason warm-up for youth tackle and other fall sports
Free agent list for individuals seeking a team
Festival atmosphere with food trucks, music, and more
Proceeds benefit YMCA Youth Sports Scholarships

Whether you’re coaching a current or past YMCA Flag Football team, leading a group from another sport like soccer, basketball, or volleyball, or simply have a roster of enthusiastic athletes ready to play, this event is open to all youth teams eager for a fun, fast-paced tournament experience.

Registration is open through Wednesday, July 16. Coaches, families, and athletes can sign up or join the Free Agent List at ymca.link/casey-clash. If you have questions, please reach out to Chris Bellecourt at [email protected] or Jacob Hiatt at [email protected].

The Y Celebrates Historic Move to Sanction Girls’ Flag Football in Washington

Posted on April 28, 2025 by Abbey McGee

EVERETT, WA. April 28, 2025 — The YMCA of Snohomish County is celebrating a game-changing moment for girls across Washington state. The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) has officially sanctioned girls’ flag football as a high school varsity sport—the first addition to the state’s roster in over two decades.

For the YMCA, the decision affirms what they’ve been building for years.

“We’ve been laying the foundation—training, mentoring, and championing girls through our own girls-only flag football league,” said Chris Bellecourt, Association Youth Sports Director, YMCA of Snohomish County. “Now, we’re ready to grow.”

The Y’s girls flag football league has become a launchpad for young players of all ages and skill levels who want to take their game to the next level. With a dedicated Girls Flag Football Coordinator leading program growth, the Y is uniquely equipped to support and scale participation in response to the state’s new varsity designation.

“I joined the Y because I believe in investing where it matters—right here in our community. We’re not just running a league; we’re building something meaningful for these girls,” said Jacob Hiatt, Girls Flag Football Coordinator, YMCA of Snohomish County. “Our goal is to create the best experience possible, both on and off the field.”

Flag football has seen a 63 percent national increase in girls’ participation since 2019, making it one of the fastest-growing youth sports in the country. Washington joins 14 other states in formally recognizing the sport at the high school level, a shift fueled by advocacy from school districts and the support of the Seattle Seahawks.

With girls’ flag football officially kicking off in the 2025-26 school year, the Y is ready to help players hit the ground running. Registration opens on May 10 for the fall girls league, open to athletes in grades 1-12. To learn more about youth sports at the Y, please visit ymca-snoco.org/sports. Financial assistance is available.

The Y Hosts Free Girls Flag Football Clinic

Posted on February 18, 2025 by Abbey McGee

Everett, WA. February 18, 2025 — The YMCA of Snohomish County is thrilled to invite girls of all skill levels to a FREE Girls Flag Football Clinic on Sunday, February 23 from 12-2 PM at Cascade High School (801 E. Casino Road, Everett, WA). This exciting event offers young athletes (Grades 1-12) the chance to learn from experienced coaches and groundbreaking players, including Melissa Strother, the first woman to score points in an Arena Football League (AFL) game.

“Flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports for girls, and we’re excited to provide a space where they can develop their skills, build confidence, and be inspired by incredible role models,” said Chris Bellecourt, Association Director of Sports Advancement, YMCA of Snohomish County. “This clinic is all about making the game accessible, fun, and empowering for every participant.”

Participants can look forward to an exciting clinic featuring expert coaching, inspiring guest speakers, and skill-building opportunities:

Expert Coaching: YMCA sports staff, guest instructors from the Seattle Spartans Women’s Football Team, and the Washington Wolfpack Arena Football coaching staff will lead drills and skill-building exercises.
Special Guest Inspiration: Melissa Strother, a history-making AFL player, will share her journey and mentor participants.
Skill Development: Players will refine their fundamentals in a supportive, high-energy environment.

This clinic is presented in partnership with Everett Elite Girls Flag Football, reinforcing the commitment to expanding opportunities for young female athletes.

Flag football is surging in popularity, with participation up 63% since 2019. Nearly half a million girls nationwide now play, and the sport continues to gain momentum with support from major organizations like the NFL.

“We want every girl who is interested to have the chance to play,” added Bellecourt. “That’s why we offer financial assistance to ensure that cost is never a barrier to participation.”

For those eager to continue beyond the clinic, registration is still open for the YMCA’s Spring Girls Flag Football League (March 3 – May 10) for girls in grades K-8. The league provides a fantastic opportunity to stay active, make friends, and develop life skills through team sports.

Secure a spot in the FREE clinic or the Spring Girls Flag Football League at: www.ymca-snoco.org/sports.

Amazing Weekend for Fall Sports

Posted on November 18, 2024 by Abbey McGee

This past weekend, venues across the region buzzed with energy and excitement as youth, families, and coaches gathered for some fierce, fun competition! Undeterred by the rain and wind, over 2,500 young athletes competed in flag football bowl games, end-of-season volleyball tournaments, and indoor soccer matches across Snohomish County. The event showcased the dedication and teamwork of our youth and the exceptional leadership of sports staff.

The day kicked off with 44 thrilling flag football bowl games at Everett Memorial Stadium, complete with food trucks to fuel the excitement. Meanwhile, volleyball tournaments saw 64 teams compete in eight brackets across North, Evergreen, and Heatherwood Middle Schools, as well as the Everett Family YMCA. And indoor soccer kept the ball rolling with 54 games hosted at all six YMCA branch facilities, capping off a jam-packed weekend of sportsmanship and community spirit.

Thank you to everyone who participated, cheered, and supported—your enthusiasm made this weekend unforgettable!

To learn more about youth sports, please visit: Youth Sports – YMCA of Snohomish County

FREE Girls Only Flag Football Camp

Posted on July 26, 2024 by Abbey McGee

Get ready for an exciting and empowering experience at the YMCA of Snohomish County’s Girls Only Flag Football Camp on July 30-31 from 10 am – 12:30 pm at Evergreen Middle School (7621 Beverly Lane, Everett, WA 98203)! This camp, designed specifically for girls entering grades 1-12, is an incredible opportunity to learn, play, and excel in the thrilling sport of flag football.

The best part? It’s completely FREE for all participants!

Our experienced staff and coaches, including athletes from Seattle Women’s Flag Football League and the Seattle Spartans Football Team, will provide a safe, supportive, and fun environment where girls can develop their skills, build confidence, and make lasting friendships. The camp is open to girls of all skill levels and is tailored to various age groups to ensure age-appropriate instruction and gameplay.

During the camp, participants will:

Learn the fundamentals of flag football, including passing, catching, route running, and defensive strategies.
Participate in drills and exercises designed to improve speed, agility, and overall fitness.
Engage in team-building activities and daily scrimmages to put their skills into practice.
Gain valuable lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork, and leadership.
Have the opportunity to interact with positive female role models and mentors.
Participate in an activity sponsored by Girls on the Run Snohomish County encouraging positive self-esteem and confidence.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be a part of an experience that combines the excitement of flag football with the power of girls supporting and empowering each other, all while enjoying a free program. The camp is FREE, but registration is required. Register today!

Join us for an unforgettable camp experience!

The Y Hosts County-Wide Flag Football Bowl Game Day Featuring Over 700 Athletes

Posted on May 9, 2024 Updated on July 2, 2024 by Abbey McGee

EVERETT, WA. May 9, 2024 – The YMCA of Snohomish County is excited to announce its annual Flag Football Bowl Game Day taking place on Saturday, May 11 at Cascade High School (801 E. Casino Road, Everett, WA 98203). This highly anticipated event serves as the culmination of the spring flag football season, welcoming over 700 athletes from all six Snohomish County Y locations to compete and showcase their skills.

A total of 78 teams will take to the field for their final games of the season. The full-day event promises to be one filled with fun, camaraderie, community spirit, and lots of great football. These young athletes, from kindergartners through high school freshman, have dedicated the last couple of months to weekly practices and games, honing their skills and learning sportsmanship and teamwork. The Y is looking forward to celebrating their accomplishments and extends an invitation to the community to join the excitement and support these young athletes.

“The Flag Football Bowl Game Day is the perfect way to end the season and celebrate our athletes’ hard work and dedication to the sport,” said Chris Bellecourt, Association Director of Youth Sports, YMCA of Snohomish County. “We are proud to provide a platform where they can showcase their skills and sportsmanship and we look forward to celebrating their achievements with their friends and family.”

Adding to the excitement, team members from the Washington Wolfpack, Everett’s Arena Football Team, will be in attendance to support the players and generate excitement. Their presence highlights the importance of mentorship, positive role models, and community support in fostering the next generation of football players.

The Washington Wolfpack leadership shared their excitement for the event and the opportunity to inspire local youth. “We are thrilled to support the YMCA Flag Football Game Day and the young athletes who will be taking the field,” said Jr Wells, Head Coach, Washington Wolfpack. “It’s an honor for us to part of their journey and to encourage them as they continue to develop their passion for the game.”

The Flag Football Bowl Game Day runs from 9 am – 7 pm. The event is free for spectators and open to the community.

The YMCA’s flag football program is open to boys and girls ages 5 through grade 9. To learn more about the sport and registration for the fall season, please visit ymca-snoco.org/sports.

Miracle League: A Place for Everyone to Play

Posted on April 8, 2024 by Zac Jagow

Miracle League: A Place for Everyone to Play

There’s something special that happens at Monroe Rotary Field on Saturdays every spring. Athletes from all over the county gather to play Miracle League Baseball. Miracle League programs are designed for individuals with diverse abilities requiring additional assistance to play the game. This program is adapted to be an inclusive, stress-free, non-competitive game where everyone plays and everyone finds success. This year, the baseball season kicks off on Saturday, April 20 with its 25th Anniversary celebration.

Lake Stevens brothers, Edge and Ezra Burkett, can’t wait to get back out on the field. You can tell how much they love Miracle League Baseball by the way their faces shine when they talk about it.

“It is the best sports program ever!” said Edge.

Edge and Ezra have medical conditions that impact their mobility. Traditional sports settings aren’t the best fit for the brothers.

“Miracle League Baseball allows my boys the opportunity to play and compete in a sport they love,” said Jannet Burkett, Edge and Ezra’s mom. “Edge has some mobility outside of his wheelchair, but the chair makes it easier for him to participate with his peers. Everyone can play.”

Miracle League Baseball joins other YMCA of Snohomish County Miracle League programs, including basketball and bowling, providing opportunities for athletes to experience the fun of playing recreational sports all year long.

Gina Casagrande, current Mill Creek Family YMCA Executive Director, worked closely with Miracle League Baseball when she was the Executive Director at the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA and has been instrumental in bringing Miracle League Basketball to the Y.

“Miracle League is a place for everyone,” said Casagrande. “We want to get the word out and share with families who might feel like they need a spot for their child to play a sport. This is a judgment-free, positive place where we support all athletes, meeting them right where they’re at.”

All Miracle League athletes are partnered with a volunteer buddy to help them compete. In baseball, they help them hit the ball, run the bases, and play defense in the field. Parents and guardians are encouraged to sit in the stands to watch and cheer for their player.

“One of the special things about Miracle League sports is the parent network and support parents receive from each other,” said Casagrande. “Our parents rarely get a break, especially when their child may face additional daily challenges. Miracle League is a place where parents can sit back, relax, and let us help the athletes on the court. Parents can just be a spectator and cheer for their child.”

Miracle League programs are free and open to the community, made available through generous contributions to the YMCA’s Community Campaign.

To learn more about Miracle League Baseball, please visit: Miracle League Baseball – YMCA of Snohomish County. The Y invites the community to come out to Miracle League Opening Day on April 20 for food, fun, and lots of baseball and smiles.

Mill Creek Y Launches Miracle League Basketball

Posted on February 12, 2024 Updated on February 29, 2024 by Abbey McGee

MILL CREEK, WA. February 12, 2024 – Miracle League Basketball, a new adaptive sports program for athletes with diverse abilities, kicks off its inaugural season at the Mill Creek Family YMCA on Sunday, February 25. This program joins other YMCA of Snohomish County Miracle League programs, including baseball and bowling, providing another opportunity for athletes with diverse abilities to experience the fun of playing recreational sports all year long.

“I got a phone call from a mom who was looking for a place for her child to land and she was told by others to contact the Y,” said Gina Casagrande, Executive Director, Mill Creek Family YMCA. “Typical sports settings were not the best fit or most inclusive for her child. I told her that she came to the right place and that we would love to offer a basketball program. It’s a priority for us to provide a place for all kids to play sports.”

Miracle League sports are designed for individuals with diverse abilities requiring additional assistance to play the game. This program is adapted to be an inclusive, stress-free, non-competitive game where everyone plays and everyone finds success. Miracle League basketball is free and open to the community.

Casagrande was heavily involved in Miracle League Baseball at the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA before moving to the Mill Creek Y. She knows first-hand what a valuable program it is for athletes and their families.

The six-week season meets on Sunday mornings when the Y is quieter and less busy, to provide the best environment. To start, the program will have two age divisions: age 5-11 and age 12+. The program may grow to accommodate age 18+, depending on interest level. Each group will play for an hour.

All Miracle League Basketball athletes are partnered with a volunteer buddy to help them dribble, shoot, and learn the game. Parents and guardians are encouraged to sit in the stands to watch and cheer for their player. The Y is actively recruiting volunteer support for this upcoming season.

To register for Miracle League Basketball, please visit ymca-snoco.org/sports/. For more information about volunteering, please contact Gina Casagrande at [email protected].

The Y Launches the Green Whistle Initiative for Referees Under Age 18

Posted on January 11, 2024 by Kiana Yerxa

Everett, WA. January 8, 2024 — YMCA of Snohomish County is proud to implement the Green Whistle Initiative, inspired by a successful program from Basketball Victoria. This program uses a green whistle as a simple identifier for referees under age 18, reminding everyone involved in our sports community to prioritize respect and appreciation for sports officials, regardless of their age.

The Y has over 1,100 youth basketball games scheduled during the next two months and referees play a vital role in making the season possible. Referees ensure fair play and foster a positive environment for players, coaches and fans.

“Unfortunately, instances of disrespect and even verbal abuse towards referees are becoming increasingly common, especially for young officials,” said Chris Bellecourt, Association Director of Youth Sports, YMCA of Snohomish County. “Over 80 percent of our referees are under age 18 and for many, it’s their first job. We want to support them as they are learning the ropes by providing a safe and encouraging environment.”

The program is designed to help young referees develop leadership and professional skills, so they are equipped with essential skills when they do face pressure during game situations or interactions with fans, coaches and players. The hope is that when someone sees a green whistle, they will pause and reflect on their own role in creating a positive game experience, instead of fixating on calls or criticizing officials.

“We rely heavily on young officials at the community level and it’s our responsibility to provide the best experience possible,” said Bellecourt. “When refs encounter disrespectful behavior, they may feel discouraged and leave their job, jeopardizing the future of officiating in youth recreational sports.”

Implementation of the Green Whistle Initiative draws attention to other ways everyone involved in sports can contribute to positive change in youth sports and teaches young athletes good sportsmanship, teamwork, and fair play.

“We are hopeful that through this program, we can create a supportive environment where young referees feel valued and encouraged,” said Bellecourt. “When we treat others with respect and kindess, everyone benefits, creating a better sporting experience for all.”

For more information about jobs at the Y or youth sports, please visit ymca-snoco.org.

Category: Youth Sports