Participating in youth sports promotes physical health, fostering regular exercise and the development of essential motor skills. It cultivates social skills, teaching children teamwork, communication, and cooperation. Additionally, engagement in sports enhances self-esteem and confidence, as achievements on the field contribute to a positive self-perception and resilience in the face of challenges.
Join our Youth Badminton Open Gym at the RiverPlex for an exciting blend of fun and fitness! Improve your skills, make new friends, and stay active. Suitable for all skill levels, it’s a great way for youth to learn and enjoy this dynamic sport. Come play and grow with us!
Discover the joy of Tee-Ball at Peoria Park District! Our non-competitive program introduces young children to the fundamentals of baseball in a fun and supportive environment. From hitting off the tee to running the bases, it’s a perfect start to a lifetime of sports enjoyment. Register your little ones today and let them swing into action! Games will be held on Saturdays at Peoria Stadium. Players must bring a baseball glove.
Intro Tee-Ball • Age 4-5
Join our Intro to Tee-ball clinic! Designed for budding young athletes, this clinic provides a fun and inclusive introduction to the fundamentals Tee-ball.
Tee-Ball • Age 4-5
Discover the joy of Tee Ball at Peoria Park District! Our non-competitive program introduces young children to the fundamentals of baseball in a fun and supportive environment. From hitting off the tee to running the bases, it’s a perfect start to a lifetime of sports enjoyment. Register your little ones today and let them swing into action! Games will be held on Saturdays at Peoria Stadium. Players must bring a baseball glove.
Coach Pitch • Age 6-8
Elevate your child’s baseball journey with Coach Pitch baseball at Peoria Park District! Designed for ages 6-8, this program offers the next step in skill development. Our dedicated coaches provide hands-on guidance, making the transition from Tee Ball seamless. Seven-year-olds may choose between Coach Pitch A and AA based on the child’s ability. Players who feel comfortable playing catch and consistently hit a pitched ball should sign up for AA. Weekday practices and games will last for one hour and will start at either 5:30 and 6:30 pm. Saturday games will be at Peoria Stadium and will last one hour and vary start time between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm. Join us for an exciting season of growth, teamwork, and fun. Enroll today!
10U Baseball • Age 9-10
Do you want to instill the love of America’s pastime in the next generation? Then sign your child up for our new baseball program and have them learn from former Peoria-area coaches and players. This instructional baseball league will give players the opportunity to learn and develop baseball skills in a fun and encouraging atmosphere. Games may include playing teams from area communities featuring a home and away schedule as well night games. Season packets will be sent electronically prior to the start of the season. Sponsored by the Peoria Baseball Association.
12U Baseball • Age 11-12
Do you want to instill the love of America’s pastime in the next generation? Then sign your child up for our new baseball program and have them learn from former Peoria-area coaches and players. This instructional baseball league will give players the opportunity to learn and develop baseball skills in a fun and encouraging atmosphere. Games may include playing teams from area communities featuring a home and away schedule as well night games. Season packets will be sent electronically prior to the start of the season. Sponsored by the Peoria Baseball Association.
Pony Baseball • Age 13-14
Join the ‘Pony’ Youth Baseball League at Peoria Park District, where local teams face off in a home and away schedule, fostering camaraderie and competition! Be part of the action, hone your skills, and connect with neighboring communities. Register now for a season of baseball excellence and unforgettable moments!
Preseason Pitching/Catching Clinic • Age 9-12
Hone your pitching and catching skills before the season begins. Learn the proper mechanics to increase pitch velocity and accuracy. Catchers will learn the best techniques to block pitches and throw out base runners. All skill levels welcome. Held at Franciscan Recreation Complex.
Preseason Baseball Clinic • Age 6-12
Get ready for the season with our preseason baseball clinic. You will work on all of the skills that will help you have a successful season. Participants will play outside when possible. Held at Franciscan Recreation Complex
Baseball & Softball Clinics • Age 6-18
Come join us and ICC player/coaches as we teach players the importance of proper throwing mechanics, rotational hitting, bunting, fielding, pitching, and catching. Speed and agility techniques have been included to boost core strength and mobility for increased bat speed, field range, and linear speed for base running. In-game methods are offered to help each player improve their general knowledge. Participants are required to bring their own glove.
Let us help your children discover the joy of youth basketball at the Peoria Park District! We offer different programs for every skill level. From non-competitive skills clinics to middle school leagues, our coaches will work with players to develop their ball handling skills, shooting, rebounding and overall endurance. Basketball programs typically run summer though winter and are held at Proctor Recreation Center, Lakeview Recreation Center and the RiverPlex. See what programs are available by clicking the link below.
Youth Basketball League • Age 5-10
Youth of all ability levels will learn the skills necessary to enjoy the game of basketball for life. Under the instruction of volunteer coaches, participants will develop techniques, knowledge, and strategy with an emphasis on fun, sportsmanship, and fair play.
Proctor Basketball Skills Clinics • Age 4-9
This class introduces young players to all the basics needed to play. Skills include dribbling, passing, shooting, and playing with a team. This class is offered year round and is also called ‘Young Ballers’ in the registration module.
Proctor Girls Basketball League • Age 10-15
This league promotes teamwork, physical fitness, and social skills. Your child will build confidence, make friends, and learn valuable life lessons while staying active and engaged.
Be a part of the growing sport of Esports with the Peoria Park District.
Madden Tournament • Age 9-15
Get ready to experience the thrill of virtual gridiron action. This tournament is typically held at Lakeview Recreation Center. Gaming system and controllers provided.
March Madness: NBA 2k24 Tournament • Age 9-15
Dribble, shoot, and slam dunk your way to victory in our March Madness: NBA 2k24 tournament. This tournament is typically held at Franciscan. Gaming systems and controllers provided.
NFL FLAG Football League • 8U, 10U, 12U
The Peoria Park District has partnered with the National Football League to offer this spring flag football league where players learn the game of football in a safe setting. This program emphasizes positive coaching and provides an environment where every child has the opportunity to succeed. Teams will practice one night during the week and have games on Sundays at Peoria Stadium on the soccer fields along War Memorial. Practices take place between 5:30-7:30pm for approximately 60 minutes. Each player receives an NFL team reversible jersey and an official NFL FLAG belt.
The Peoria Park District is excited to offer many opportunities for your young golfer! Our Golf Learning Center has youth and junior golf lessons, as well as family golf lessons. The PPD golf courses also offer special junior tee rates to make golf more accessible to youth golfers. To learn more about youth golf opportunities with the Peoria Park District, click the link below.
The Peoria Park District is the place to learn how to play hockey. Owens Ice Center features two full size ice rinks and has ice available year-round for your developing player. WE have programs for every level of player – click the link below to see what is available.
Intro to Hockey
After learning the basics of hockey, move onto this class to begin putting those skills into practice. This class is offered during the spring and requires completion of Skating Star Level 2 or Super Skates Level 1.
Equipment required: HECC certified hockey helmet with mask, shin pads, elbow pads, hockey gloves, athletic cup and supporter, and hockey stick. Recommended equipment includes hockey pants and shoulder pads. Skate rental is included in the fee.
Community Partner: Peoria Youth Hockey Association (PYHA)
Peoria Youth Hockey Association exists to promote the growth of ice hockey in the Peoria area by encouraging, developing and administering the sport. PYHA endeavors to develop and prepare players and coaches to achieve optimal performance at all levels while providing essential information, quality instruction and a positive experience through participation in the program. Learn ore at PYHA.org
PYHA Offers:
- Travel & House League Hockey
- Pre-Season Conditioning
- Used Equipment Sale
- Clinics
Does your youngster love to be on the ice? The Peoria Park District offers numerous skating classes for children of various ages and skill levels! Owens Ice Center offers ice skating year-round! For open skate schedules, click over to the Owens Ice Center page.
Skating Stars and Super Skates
Whether your child wants to play hockey, figure skate, or needs a FUN activity, Skating Stars and Super Skates are the places to start. Skating Stars is comprised of 3 levels that teach the fundamentals of skating through on-ice games tailored for children ages 3-6. Super Skates offers an in-depth 10-level curriculum for beginners through advanced recreational skaters ages 7-15. Owens Center also offers a one-time only enrollment for a 4-week skating session for both Skating Stars and Super Skates during our fall, winter, and spring sessions.
Power Skating Class
Prepare for an intense on-ice workout! This class helps strengthen the skater’s endurance and speed. Get ready to have fun while working up a sweat. This class corresponds with the monthly freestyle schedule and requires promotion from learn to skate level 10.
Booster Lessons
Receive help on new skills or reinforce difficult skills with private instruction from a member of our Booster Staff. Must be enrolled in current group skating lesson to participate.
Jump & Spin
Learn the jumps, spins and connecting moves necessary for freestyle tests. The 10-level program takes skaters from beginner jump & spins to mastering an Axel and having knowledge of all the spin positions. Requires promotion from level 9.
Ice Dance Class
Looking for a way to define your edge quality and rhythm? Not sure if you are ready for Jump & Spin? Try another fun part of skating and join the Ice Dance Class. Requires promotion from level 9.
Community Partner: Heart of Illinois River City Gems (Synchronized Skating)
Interested in joining a synchronized skating team? HOI’s River City Gems welcomes new skaters each season. All levels are encouraged to participate. Practices are held throughout the week. Visit the HOI’s River City Gems website for more information.
Little Pints Sports • Ages 3-5
Little Pints Sports is a great way to introduce kids ages 3 to 5 to sports! This program will focus on a different sport each week teaching the fundamental skills and components through a variety of engaging drills and games. The instructors will emphasize collaboration, body control, and hand-eye coordination. This class is typically held at Franciscan Recreation Center.
Pee Wee Sports • Ages 6-8
This programs is the ideal program for children aged 6-8 that are interested in learning how to play a number of different sports! Pee Wee Sports introduces them to a range of sports while emphasizing fundamental skill development in a joyful and interactive setting. Our instructors provide expert guidance, helping kids build a strong foundation in sportsmanship, teamwork, and individual skills. Join us for a dynamic, fun-filled journey that instills a lifelong love for sports in your child.”
Discover the fastest-growing sport in America – Pickleball! Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis. It is played on an indoor or outdoor court that is approximately half the size of a tennis court. Equipment consists of a wooden paddle (like a ping pong paddle but with a larger head), a polymer wiffleball (moves at one-third the speed of a tennis ball), and a net that sits four inches lower than a tennis net. The smaller area combined with the slower moving ball makes pickleball much easier to play (and is supposedly much easier on the knees) than tennis. Join our vibrant community of players and experience the fun, fitness, and friendly competition that pickleball offers. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, our inclusive leagues and clinics cater to all skill levels. Come join us, make new friends, and enjoy this exciting racquet sport! For lessons and clinics, click the link below.
Looking to play today? Click here to see all the courts the Peoria Park District has to offer.
Shot Put • Ages 11-18
Participants will learn proper technique, strength-building exercises, and mental preparation strategies to excel in shot put. Whether you’re a beginner looking to refine your form or a seasoned athlete aiming for personal bests, this clinic promises tailored guidance and a supportive environment to help you unleash your full throwing potential.
Discover the Peoria Park District Youth Soccer program, where young athletes ignite their passion for the game. Our program offers a fun and supportive environment, and a chance for kids to develop teamwork and skills. Join us for a season of excitement and growth on the field!
HappyFeet Soccer • Ages 2-5
HappyFeet is a fun “story-time with a soccer ball” program for kids ages 2-5. Each session will last 30 minutes. Each session builds on the last and our coaches teach curriculum that is appropriate for both age and skill level. HappyFeet Soccer is held at many different Park District locations throughout the year.
Youth Soccer League • Ages 4-11
This recreational soccer league, held at Detweiller Park, allows each child to participate in every game. Designed for ages 4 through 11 years of age. It’s where soccer dreams take root and flourish. With age-appropriate coaching and a focus on skill development, kids build a strong foundation while having a blast on the field.
ICC Spring Soccer Clinic • Ages 4 -12
Enhance your skill, learn advanced techniques, and gain valuable insight into the beautiful game from ICC Head Coach. No matter your skill, this clinic promises to elevate your game to new heights while fostering a love for soccer.
Serve up some fun with the Peoria Park District’s Youth Tennis program! Let your child discover the joy of tennis, improve their skills, and make new friends on the court. Tennis lessons are taught in the summer. Enroll for a fantastic season of active play and learning. Don’t miss this ace opportunity – sign up today!
Free Tennis Lessons
Tennis Blitzes • Age 6-18
How about a FREE group tennis lesson to see if you like the sport? A little fun could lead to a life-long passion for the game. Register in advance or just show up! These classes are only held in the summer months.
Sweney Youth Tennis Program • Age 7-14
Come and learn to play tennis in this exciting program by the Peoria Park District and the family of the late Jack Sweney. The lessons are free and include a free t-shirt and equipment for kids who continue to participate. Participants may only register for one Sweney class. These classes are only held during the summer.
Beginner Tennis
Pee Wee Tennis • Ages 4-6
An exciting and fun program that introduces young kids to the basics of tennis. Modified equipment is used to bring the game to the level of the players. All equipment is furnished.
Red Level – Youth Beginners • Ages (6-8), (8-11), (11-17)
This beginner class takes on the topics of grips, court rules, serves, and basic strokes. Lead-up games will be taught to participants with little or no experience.
Tennis Blitz • Ages (6-17)
Sweney Youth Tennis Program • Ages (7-14)
Learn to play tennis in this exciting program facilitated by the Peoria Park District and the family of the late Jack Sweney. The lessons are free to all who sign up and include a free t-shirt and equipment for kids who continue to participate.
Youth Intermediate Tennis
White Level – Youth Intermediate – Ages (8-17)
This level caters to youth that have a background knowledge in the basics of tennis. Students should be able to hit a fairly solid forehand and backhand and know serve basics. The class will address game strategy, provide drills to sharpen skills, and help players advance to the next level.
Youth Advanced Tennis
Blue Level – Youth Advanced • Ages (11-17)
Students in this level should have solid stokes and be eager to learn advanced strategy for games.
Evening & Saturday Lessons
Lesson are offered on evenings and Saturday when available. Typically, there are lessons for Pee Wee, Ages 4-6pm and Red Levels – Youth beginners for ages 6-11.
Spike into action with the Peoria Park District’s Youth Volleyball program! It’s the perfect opportunity for your child to enhance their skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Join us for a fantastic season of fun and learning on the court. Don’t miss out – register today!
Volleyball • Age 7-12
This six week introductory program teaches participants the basics of volleyball in a fun and inclusive environment. Each lesson is followed by a fun and competitive game play. This program is typically held in the spring at the Franciscan Recreation Center.
Community Partner: Eastside Volleyball Club
This excellent program is the area leader in providing good fundamental volleyball skills to girls and boys in central Illinois. We encourage all potential players to participate. The focus of the Eastside Volleyball Club, Inc. is to increase the level of play of volleyball throughout the area, including an Elite program. Visit eastsidevc.com for more information
Rock Climbing at the RiverPlex
Discover the thrill of vertical adventure at RiverPlex’s Rock Climbing Wall! Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a beginner seeking a challenge, the RiverPlex rockwall is sure to provide a gravity-defying experience that promotes fitness, fun, and a strong sense of accomplishment.
Table Tennis at the RiverPlex
Dive into the fast-paced world of table tennis at RiverPlex! All levels of players are invited to experience the thrill of rallies and friendly matches. Embrace the excitement of quick reflexes and strategic plays.
