Scottish Rite for Children is partnering with the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas to support youth sports through education and sports apparel to DFW-area sports teams, according to a press release.
Plano Family YMCA basketball and soccer team members will receive custom jerseys while Scottish Rite shares information with their families on protecting player health through hydration, stretching and nutrition.
“We’re grateful to work with Scottish Rite for Children to enrich our sports programs,” said Curt Hazelbaker, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. “In the last year, Y sports participation has significantly increased, so it’s important that our partners understand the unique needs of our youth and can deliver targeted education to help young athletes stay in the game safely.”
The Y’s youth leagues to not have tryouts, encouraging anyone who is interested to play, regardless of skill level. This is especially important because, according to the President’s Council on Sports’ Fitness and Nutrition Science Board, 73% of parents believe that sports benefit their child’s mental health.
Studies show that participating in sports is linked to lower rates of anxiety, depression and stress, and that it increases self-esteem and cognitive performance, according to Scottish Rite.
“At Scottish Rite, we believe in the health of the whole child. When a child participates in sports and team activities, they’re expanding their ability to learn, grow and adapt,” said Robert L. Walker, President and CEO of Scottish Rite for Children. “We’re thrilled to continue to support the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas’s mission to promote healthy engagement and development in our youth.”