Lace up your sneakers and get ready to hit the court!

The City of Trenton recently announced that they will be hosting a free co-ed basketball league for the upcoming winter season. The teams will be broken up into the following days and age ranges:

• Fridays: Grades 3rd-4th, 40 children max.; Game times 6:00pm & 6:45pm at Parker School
• Fridays: Grades 5th-6th, 40 children max; Game times 6:00pm & 6:45pm at Kilmer School
• Saturdays: Grades K-2nd, 40 children max; Game times 12:15pm & 1:00pm at Sam Naples
• Saturdays: Grades 4th-6th, 40 children max; Game times 2:00pm & 2:45pm at Sam Naples (Girls Only)

The league will run from December 2nd through February 25th. Space is limited, so be sure to enroll your child as soon as possible! No previous experience is needed, so whether your little one is a newcomer or the next NBA star, there’s a spot for every skill level on the team. Registration forms are available at City Hall as well as at three different school locations.

Besides a fun way to blow off some steam, a child’s participation in sports can have tremendous benefits for their overall development. Through activities like a basketball league, children learn to work together to achieve a goal, develop self-confidence, and communicate with one another. The leagues also give local children and families a place to connect, forging new friendships and community along the way.

According to a study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, sports participation for children is recommended for both its mental and physical benefits. This study particularly highlights the benefits of a child participating in a social athletic environment versus solitary physical activity. Some of the many benefits of increased physical activity include improved cardiovascular health, reduced body fat, a lower risk of metabolic disease, and more. Studies also suggest that a child’s participation in sports at a young age can increase their overall activity levels throughout their adult life.

Regarding a child’s mental health, participation in sports can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve social outcomes, and allow a child to develop a higher sense of self-esteem. Overall, sports provide a productive outlet through which children can develop both physically, socially, and emotionally. Although there’s still much research to be done regarding the full scope of benefits, all signs indicate that a child’s participation in sports will provide them with priceless life lessons for the years to come.

Space is limited, so be sure to get your little ones enrolled as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please contact the City’s Recreation, Natural Resources, and Culture department at 609-989-3635. With a program this fun, this winter is sure to be a slam dunk!