Pierce County city approves new youth sports leagues after 10+ years without
After much debate and some controversy, the University Place City Council voted unanimously Monday to approve a contract with the YMCA that would bring back youth sports to the city after more than a decade.
Skills clinics for basketball, volleyball and soccer will happen this summer, as previously reported by The News Tribune. Additional volleyball clinics will happen in the fall, as well as more basketball clinics in spring 2027 and soccer clinics in winter 2027. Clinic signups cost $65 for UP residents and YMCA members and $130 for non-residents.
A new basketball league would start in the fall, volleyball and flag football would take place in winter 2027, according to the city. Soccer and T-ball/coach pitch would happen in spring 2027. It will cost $95 per UP resident or YMCA member and $190 for non-residents.
Some local sports leagues, like the University Place Soccer Club, opposed the agreement as written, arguing it would force them to compete for players and field time when they have a system that works. Representatives with UPSC could not be reached for comment Wednesday.
After much discussion, the YMCA agreed to offer soccer in the spring as opposed to the fall, to accommodate UPSC’s concerns, said UP public works director Jack Ecklund at the April 6 meeting. Ecklund said the city expected the city’s new recreational league to generate excitement for both groups, with opportunities for all skill levels.
“Ultimately, it’s about providing the most access to the most kids to get out there and play sports. We really think this is the best solution for everybody,” he said Monday. “Our commitment is, we’ll continue to keep the dialogue open, but at least we’ve done what we can to best address their concerns.”
The sports leagues and clinics for kids ages 5-12 will primarily occur at UP park facilities and University Place School District facilities, and the YMCA will provide the staffing for the programs, as well as promote them, per the contract. University Place residents would receive priority for registration, and non-UP and YMCA members would pay an additional rate.
“We’re just excited to give more kids a chance to play,” said YMCA communications manager Jyot Sandhu on Wednesday. “The Y is a partner-oriented organization, and we’re pretty optimistic about the opportunity to serve thousands of youth in University Place who aren’t already participating in sports.”
Sandu said kids should be able to sign up for clinics and leagues in the next few months on the YMCA’s and city’s website.
