I9 Sports is one of the best and most popular youth sports leagues in the United States. It provides a fun and engaging sports experience for children between the ages of 3-13 years. It offers programs in many popular sports like soccer, flag football, basketball, baseball, track & field events and more. It focuses on skill development, fun, teamwork and safety of the kids.
Background
I9 Sports was founded in 2003 by Brian Sanders in Salt Lake City, Utah. The company has grown tremendously over the years. Currently, it operates in over 1000 communities across more than 30 states. It runs leagues for over 350,000 children every year.
I9 Sports Programs
I9 Sports offer programs in the following sports:
- Soccer
- Flag Football
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Track & Field Events
- Lacrosse
- Golf
- Volleyball
- Cheerleading
These programs are offered in different age divisions like 3-5 years, 6-7 years, 8-9 years, 10-12 years and 13-14 years. The curriculums and formats are designed specifically for each age group to provide age-appropriate learning and entertainment.
I9 Sports Format and Curriculum
Some key aspects of I9 Sports leagues are:
- Age appropriate curriculum designed by experts
- Practice and games once a week
- Seasons last 5-8 weeks
- Teams formed via draft to maintain parity
- Each child plays at least half of every game
- Fun team names chosen by players
- Modified rules for safety
- Focus on fundamentals like dribbling, passing, shooting
- Certified Kid Safe® coaches
- Participation trophies for all players
Why I9 Sports is the Best Youth Sports League
There are several reasons why I9 Sports is considered one of the best youth sports organizations. These reasons are given below:
Focus on Fun and Skill Development
Unlike some competitive youth leagues, I9 Sports believes in making sports fun for kids. The programs focus more on skill development than competition. Kids learn basics skills, play games and scrimmage in a no-pressure environment.
Emphasis on Participation and Teamwork
I9 Sports aims to get all kids actively involved in the games. Teams are set up to ensure equal participation. Kids are taught teamwork and importance of being a team player.
Player Safety
Safety of the children is the top priority. Rules and equipment are modified to remove contact in games like soccer, football and basketball to prevent injuries. Coaches teach proper techniques.
Positive Coaching
Coaches follow the Double-Goal Coach® model which means they focus on developing better players as well as teaching life lessons like responsibility, teamwork etc. They use encouragement and positive motivation methods.
Convenience
This sports organization brings leagues to community parks and schools near people’s homes for convenience. Schedules are set up to allow families to participate without conflicts.
Non-Profit Structure
The leagues are run via franchises that are set up as non-profits to keep costs down. This allows more kids access to sports affordably.
Why Choose I9 Sports for Your Child
Here are some top reasons to enroll your child in I9 Sports:
- It makes sports fun rather than overly competitive.
- Environment allows kids to learn skills without fear of failure.
- Play time is guaranteed unlike school teams where some kids warm the bench.
- Coaches are trained to be supportive, not yell or criticize.
- Safety is ingrained throughout programs and rules.
- Kids gain confidence and appreciation for teamwork.
- Cost is affordable due to non-profit model.
- Leagues are conveniently located for most families.
- Kids can try various sports to find what they enjoy.
How to Get Involved
If you want your kids to get involved with I9 Sports, here is what you need to do:
- Find Your Local Franchise: Use the franchise locator on I9Sports website to find contact details for your nearest location.
- Learn About Programs: Each franchise may offer slightly different sports and programs depending on season and demand. Get details on what is available in your area.
- Register Your Child: Create an account and register online or in person. Registration opens around 4-6 weeks before new seasons start.
- Volunteer to Help: This organization relies on parent volunteers. Offer to be a Team Mom or Team Dad or help in other ways if you can.
- Spread the Word: Tell other parents how great the experience was so the league keeps growing. Referrals go a long way.
Conclusion
So if you want your child to have a great sports experience focused on fun and learning, I9 Sports is one of the best youth sports organizations to consider. It allows children to reap all the physical, social and emotional gains of youth sports in a fun, friendly and developmentally-appropriate environment.
