Albany Area YMCA opens fall soccer sign-ups

ALBANY – Fall sports might not be the first thing that comes to mind on a sultry July day, but Albany Area YMCA officials are already looking ahead toward the crisper fall weather.

Noting the growing popularity of soccer in the area, the Albany YMCA is offering early registration for its fall soccer programs.

With the start of school still a month away, the Albany Y has opened the early registration and will continue it through Aug. 13.

Y officials say boys and girls who will be ages 4-14 by Aug. 1 can participate in the organization’s regular youth soccer leagues. Its Itty-Bitty Soccer program is available for children ages 2-3.

“Soccer is really growing in our area,” Marc West, sports director for the Albany Y, said. “Last week, we had a fantastic turnout with GPS-Georgia Around the World Soccer Camp. It was our first time hosting them.

“The kids learned about soccer as well as different countries around the world where soccer is popular. Feedback from the camp has been really positive.”

The Y has one more international soccer training program this summer. British Soccer Camp, presented by Challenger Sports and the YMCA Sports Park, is slated for July 24-28. The camp is open to girls and boys ages 3-16. Options also are available for half-day and full-day, plus swimming.

“We’re really looking forward to returning to the Albany again this year,” Anthony Riley, regional director for Challenger Sports, said. “Our mission of developing youth and character through sports echoes that of the Y. It’s always great when we can work together to inspire young people to learn and grow.”

Registration links for British Soccer and forms for YMCA Fall Soccer can be found at www.albanyareaymca.org. Contact the Albany Y at (229) 436-0531 in Albany or (229) 759-9770 in Leesburg.