By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Chilton County YMCA basketball signups have begun, and the deadline is Nov. 30.

This will be the fourth year for the YMCA league, which is open to children ages 5 to 14.

“Last year, we had record number with over 150 kids,” league coordinator Jason Griffin said.

Teams will be divided by age group: 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, etc. The number of teams will be determined by the number of participants. Griffin said last year there were at least four teams in each age group.

An evaluation day to determine teams will be held on Dec. 2.

Participation is $85 for YMCA members and $125 for non-members. This includes a team jersey and shorts, as well as a certification of participation. First place trophies will be awarded in each age group.

Scholarships are available. Application can be completed at the YMCA.

The six-week season starts in January. The first game will be Jan. 6.

All of the games are played on Saturdays at the YMCA and Clanton Middle School.

Cheerleading opportunities are also available for ages 5 and up.

Registration can be completed at the Chilton County YMCA, located at 405 Ollie Avenue in Clanton.

YMCA director Lori Patterson said this year the league will be contracting with the Alabama High School Athletic Association for referees.

“Part of the mission of the Y is for us to have athletics for all children because being in athletics improves self-esteem, leadership abilities, self-worth (and) working well with others,” Patterson said.

Volunteer coaches are also needed for the league. Those interested must be able to pass a background check and have an interest in having a positive influence on children. Volunteer coaches need to have “some knowledge of basketball,” Griffin said, commenting that they can work with potential coaches whose knowledge of the sport may not be extensive. Those interested can contact the YMCA at (205) 755-2382.

Griffin said the league was started “to improve basketball” in Chilton County, and it has seen results.

In addition to helping children develop basketball skills, Griffin said the league provides character development opportunities.

“They wind up becoming better people because they participate,” Griffin said.