Youth Activities & Leagues

Youth Activities & Leagues

Listed below are programs offered throughout the year. Visit our Current Activities page for all programs currently open. Pre-registration is required for most programs and events.

To register for open sports:

SPORTS REGISTRATION

To view current activities:

_CURRENT ACTIVITIES BUTTON

U.S.A. Girls Fast-Pitch Softball

Ages 8 - 18 


The Belleville Parks & Recreation Department has made an investment in the future of fast pitch softball in the metro-east area with its 8,10, 12, 14, 16, and 18 and under age groups fast pitch program.  This program is helping to develop the interest skills and desires of a new generation of softball players. These ladies will learn the physical and social skills necessary to excel individually, and ultimately ensure the continual growth of the sport. U.S.A. Girls Fast-Pitch Softball emphasizes fun and provides a great exchange of fellowship, sportsmanship, and the important feeling of belonging. Spring games are played in May, June, and July at Laderman and Southside Parks. Fall games are played in September, October, and November at Laderman Park. 

District #118 Basketball League

5th & 6th grades


This program is hosted by Belleville Public School District #118 and provides fifth and sixth grade youth the opportunity to learn to play basketball in a structured setting. Sportsmanship is strongly emphasized. League play starts in October. Teams are formed through the Parks & Recreation Department. Volunteer coaches are sought out for this sport each year. 

Basketball Skills Camp

2nd - 6th grades


Players will build basketball IQ, understand and develop proper footwork, increase hand and foot speed, instill ball handling skills, learn proper shooting mechanics, and establish skills to further advance playing ability. 

Camp REC

Kindergarten - 6th grades


Camp REC is an entertaining ten-week summer day camp program held at the Nichols Community Center (NCC). The wide variety of activities scheduled for the day campers includes physical and educational activities, art and craft projects, plus weekly field trips. We emphasize the importance of camper safety and take a team approach. Our staff is specifically selected for their maturity, love for children, good moral character, experience, education, and expertise. Orr counselors provide recreational activities designed for the abilities of each age group. 

Easter Egg-stravaganza

Ages 1-7 (March or April)


Held in Bellevue Park, this event is open to the public and co-sponsored by Belleville Parks & Recreation and Turkey Hill Grange. There are snacks and refreshments for the children and great photo opportunities with a special guest; The Easter Bunny! Mark your calendars and join us for a great morning of fun. Pre-registration is mandatory and begins in February. This is a 'rain or shine' event.  

Free Fishing Derby - Catch and Release

Ages 4 - 15 


Parks & Recreation offers this free event at the lake in Bellevue Park. The derby is open to to 4 - 15 year old youth. Participants are placed in groups according to age. Prizes and refreshments are available to all. 

Co-Rec and Girl's 5th and 6th Grade Volleyball

5th & 6th grades


This program provides 5th and 6th grade girls the opportunity to learn to play volleyball in a structured setting. This is a team sport which emphasizes the social, mental, and physical well-being of each child. Teams are formed through the Parks & Recreation Department. Games are played at Belleville Public School District #118 schools. Volunteer coaches are needed for this sport each year. 

Junior Tennis Lessons

Ages 7 - 11 (June - July)


Students will be introduced to and progress through the game of tennis. They will learn tennis through fun games and drills that will improve their hand-eye coordination, racquet handling skills, and basic tennis strokes. Players will learn to keep score and play matches by the end of the program on modified courts according to age and ability. Player to coach ratio will be 8 to 1 or lower. T-Shirt included.

Nerf Nights

Ages 5 -13


Come to the Nichols Community Center and enjoy our hit program, Nerf Nights! For more information on rules, supplies and to register please call 618-277-9785. This has become one of our most popular games in the area. Don't wait to register, limited spots available! Pizza, a drink, and eye protection provided.

NFL Flag Football League

Ages 6 - 11


Flag Football is a growing alternative to full contact football. It teaches basic skills and concepts of the game. This program is designed to introduce young athletes to the game while providing a safe environment. We strive for equal playing time. No experience needed. Season runs about 7 weeks. Practices and games are on the same day. All equipment  provided and teams are coached by parent volunteers.

Sports Night

Ages 6 - 13


All parents deserve a night to themselves after a busy week! Let us help your kids burn off some energy by bringing them to the Nichols Community Center for some basketball, whiffle ball, floor hockey, volleyball, and dodgeball! Pizza and a drink will be provided. Pre-registration required.


Youth Baseball:

Ages 5 - 18 


The Youth Baseball Program for boys and girls ages 5 to 18 is designed to introduce your child to an organized sport at a comfortable level. Volunteer coaches are sought out for this sport each year.

  • T-Ball League

    Kindergarten - 2nd grades, Ages 5 - 7

    T-Ball is played by hitting a baseball from a stationary tee (no pitching). Coaches are permitted on the field during the game to teach catching and fielding fundamentals.

  • Robat League

    3rd & 4th grades (7-9 years old)

    Robat Baseball introduces players to a pitching machine, which ensures accurate pitching, enabling players to develop hitting skills without dodging erratic pitches. Fielding skills are developed further in this league. 

  • Optimist League

    5th & 6th grades (9-11 years old)

    Optimist League players begin playing "regular rules" games. Provides a further skill building opportunity and the means for your child to enjoy baseball for years to come.

  • Jaycee Leagues

    Jaycee Jr - 7th & 8th grades, Ages 11 - 14 

    High School - 9th - 12th grades

    Both Jaycee Jr. and Jaycee High School are travel leagues.