Not So Little League

With spring right around the corner and slightly warmer and longer days sneaking upon us, what better way to usher in the change of seasons than with a newer, healthier you! Aspiring athletes can now participate in a wide variety of sports that fit their skill and commitment level, with sports ranging from the usual (basketball, softball, and volleyball) all the way out to the playground (dodgeball, kickball, and wiffleball). Needless to say, the days of batting ninth for the company softball team could become a thing of the past! Here is a quick and easy guide to playing like a kid, even as an adult:

AMERICAN FAMILY FITNESS
Those with an interest in participating in more traditional sports like racquetball, volleyball, or basketball can get their fix through American Family Fitness centers. Spring registration begins April 1st for the following leagues: Adult Racquetball League, Northside location, Wednesday evenings, beginning May 27th, $12 per member; Adult Racquetball League, West End location, Thursday evenings, beginning May 28th, $12 per member; Adult Co-Ed Volleyball League, West End location, Tuesday evenings, beginning May 19th, $25 member/$35 non-member; Adult Basketball League, West End location, Thursday evenings, beginning June 11th, $35 member/$45 non-member (each team allowed only 1 non-member). For more information, visit www.amfamfit.com.

YMCA
For many Richmonders, the thought of a fitness center invokes the image of their local YMCA. With a rich history and locations throughout the city and suburbs of Richmond, the YMCA is a common goto for adults looking for a yoga class or a summer camp for the kids. However, in addition to those familiar services, the YMCA also offers competitive adult basketball leagues throughout the year. Although the winter season is already under way, those with their sights set on playing can mark their calendars, as a new season will tip off during the spring of 2009. Those with YMCA memberships can participate for a $55 fee (adult leagues are not included in the cost of a membership) while participation of non-members requires a $75 fee. For more information, visit www.ymcarichmond.org.

RIVER CITY SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB
Similar to its Baltimore ancestor, the River City Sports & Social Club offers area adults the opportunity to socialize while participating in a variety of traditional and non-traditional sports. Anyone above the age of 22 is welcome to partake in leagues such as: dodgeball, co-ed football (two-hand touch), kickball, volleyball, and wiffleball. Those who participate are welcome to start their own teams or, if you are new to the area and anxious to meet some new folks, you can sign up as an individual and be assigned a team. With three skill levels to choose from and a focus on both the social and athletic aspect, participants are bound to have fun. For more information, visit www.rivercityssc.com.

HENRICO COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT Surprisingly, many overlook or forget the existence of county parks and recreation departments that offer a full and eclectic slate of athletic leagues for adults throughout the year. The County’s Parks and Recreation Department offers leagues throughout the year for sports ranging from the usual such as soccer, lacrosse, and baseball, all the way out to more unusual sports like rugby and cricket. Those interested in more information can contact Andy Crane at 804-501-5156 or visit the department website at www.co.henrico.va.us/rec/.