PROVIDENCE, RI — The Greater Providence YMCA is excited to announce the launch of the Jr. Celtics program, a collaborative youth basketball initiative with the Boston Celtics. This program aims to foster athletic skills, teamwork, and personal growth among young athletes in the community.
Starting this November, the Jr. Celtics program will be available at four Y locations: Newman, Bayside, Kent, and Cranston. This initiative is designed to provide children ages 5-15 with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of basketball, engage in healthy physical activity, and build self-confidence both on and off the court.
The Jr. Celtics program will feature:
- Professional coaching from trained Y staff and Celtics personnel.
- Skills clinics focusing on dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense.
- Team-building activities and sportsmanship lessons.
- Special events and an award ceremony at the end of the program
“We are thrilled to partner with the Boston Celtics to bring the Jr. Celtics program to our community. This collaboration underscores our commitment to youth development and creating opportunities for our youth to thrive,” said Karen Santilli, CEO, Greater Providence YMCA. “Programs like Jr. Celtics not only teach essential basketball skills but also instill values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. We believe in the power of community partnerships to enrich the lives of our youth and build a stronger, more connected community.”
Parents and guardians of the Newman, Bayside, Kent, and Cranston Y’s are encouraged to register their children early, as spaces are limited. For more information or to register for the Jr. Celtics program, please visit the front desk at your local YMCA branch or visit ymcagreaterprovidence.org.
About GPYMCA
GPYMCA includes six branch locations across Rhode Island and in Seekonk, Massachusetts, plus Providence Youth Services, Camp Fuller, and the Shooting Stars School of Dance in Seekonk. The organization provides programs for Rhode Islanders and Massachusetts residents of all ages and supports equitable access to health, fitness, recreational, and other services. In addition, GPYMCA supports high-quality out-of-school time programs and other community-based approaches to delivering health and wellness opportunities, academic enrichment and achievement, and youth development skills.
