Saint Mary's County expands youth sports with new basketball leagues and women's division

The St. Mary's County Recreation and Parks Board meeting on January 31, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in local sports programs, particularly the expansion of youth and adult athletics. A key focus was the successful implementation of community standards, achieving a remarkable 90% compliance rate for the 2012 sports season, up from 89% in 2011 and 85% in 2010. This compliance ensures that all teams have coaches who pass criminal background checks and complete necessary training, reinforcing the commitment to providing a safe environment for young athletes.

Kyle Keybald, who presented the updates, noted that the county wrapped up a productive ball sports season with 251 teams participating in various sports, including baseball, softball, and soccer. The winter sports season is now underway, featuring indoor soccer, roller hockey, and youth basketball, with over 1,000 participants in the basketball program alone.

In a notable first, the county has introduced a women's basketball league for adults aged 18 and over, which has already attracted five teams. The Leonard Hall Recreation Center is buzzing with activity, hosting 21 coed indoor soccer teams and multiple basketball leagues, showcasing the county's commitment to expanding recreational opportunities for all ages.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's dedication to enhancing community sports programs, ensuring safety, and fostering participation across various age groups. As these initiatives continue to grow, St. Mary's County is poised to become a hub for recreational sports in the region.