Little Instructional Sports Series for Preschoolers

Our Little Instructional sports provide the perfect opportunity for kids to learn the fundamentals of sports. This program is a 4-week instructional program, specifically designed for children 3-4 years of age. All classes focus on developing skills through fun drills to prepare children to play in league games when they get older. Sports offered include basketball, soccer, t-ball, tennis, and football. Click here to see the latest program offerings and to register online. 

2023 Programs & Dates

• Little Dribblers Basketball:             January 18 - February 8
• Little Kickers Soccer:                     Spring Dates: April 4 - 25                   Fall Dates: September 5 - 26
• Little Hitters T-Ball                          June 8 - 29
• Little Tikes Football                        October 3 - 24

Youth Soccer

Our youth soccer leagues are available in the spring and fall for youth ages 5-14 years and are designed to develop an understanding of rules, teamwork, fundamentals, and sportsmanship. Teams will play a 6 game regular season, with games being held on weeknights at the Hershewe Soccer Complex located within the Joplin Athletic Complex. Each player will receive a jersey, shorts, and socks. Click here to view season information, pricing, and to register online. Schedules can be found at teamsideline.com/joplin or by Clicking Here

2023 Dates & Schedules

• 6u: Games will be played on Thursday's beginning March 30
• 8u: Games will be played on Tuesday's beginning March  28
• 10u: Games will be played on Monday's beginning March 27
• 12u: Games will be played on Thursday's beginning March  30
• 14u: Games will be played on Tuesday's beginning March  28

Challenger International Soccer Camp

Challenger's International Soccer Camp program is now the country’s largest, most successful soccer camp and includes a week of practices, games and fun with qualified British coaches. Each player receives a soccer ball and T-shirt on the first day of camp and if you register 30 days early you can receive a FREE International Soccer Jersey. Camp is for kids ages 3-14 years and will be held at the Hershewe Soccer Complex located within the Joplin Athletic Complex. Click here to register online. 

Youth Tennis

We offer varying levels of tennis instruction for area children. Ken Goodall, our Head Tennis Professional, has 30+ years of tennis experience and was the 1999 World Team Tennis Coach of the Year. He brings much experience to the instructional programs and private lessons held at the Joplin Athletic Complex. Programs include introductory classes for children as well as programs to prepare players for competitive play. Prices vary depending on program and age. Program offerings and schedule can be found by clicking here. 

T-Ball League

Our youth t-ball program is for children ages 5-6 years. Children will be taught proper technique, will be given the time to practice, master and build upon learned skills, and be given plenty of opportunity to showcase their newly developed skills in scheduled games that are centered on positive encouragement, inclusion and sportsmanship.

All registered children will participate in weekly practices and a 6 game season in early summer.  Children will receive a team shirt and hat. Most equipment is provided (bats, helmets, etc). Just bring your glove, and let's play! All games are played at the Gene Bassman Softball Complex located within the Joplin Athletic Complex. Click here to register your player! Schedules can be found at teamsideline.com/joplin or by Clicking Here 

2023 Dates 

• Practices begin week of May 22
• Games begin June 6

Coaching - We need YOUR help! 

Our recreation programs are dependent upon volunteer coaches! Parents are encouraged to join in the fun by serving as volunteer coaches. We provide training and the materials so you are comfortable with leading your team. All volunteers are required to pass a background check. 
 
 We also offer incentives for coaches – ask us about the benefits! Contact us at 417-625-4750 or at [email protected] if you’re interested in learning more or signing up!