Youth Basketball Returns to Kearney for Fall 2025

Kearney Parks & Recreation is gearing up for another season of youth basketball, inviting local children in grades 1-6 to join the fun and competition this fall and winter. The season promises an inclusive and exciting experience for all participants, with teams open to both boys and girls.

Practices for the 2025 season are tentatively scheduled to begin in late November, with actual dates depending on final team numbers and registrations by the cutoff date. Games will take place on Saturdays at Hawthorne Elementary School, while weekday practices will be held at various elementary schools across Kearney, with times and locations determined by gym and coach availability.

The league is divided into three divisions based on grade: 1st–2nd, 3rd–4th, and 5th–6th. All teams are coed, and no team transfers will be permitted, ensuring the integrity and community spirit of the league. The program also emphasizes accessibility, offering confidential scholarships for families facing financial hardship. Those interested in scholarship options can contact Ryan Marcotte at 816-903-4730 for further information.

Registration is now open for the upcoming season. Regular registration runs from Wednesday, October 8, 2025, through Sunday, November 16, 2025, with a fee of $100. Late registration is available from Sunday, November 9, 2025, to Sunday, November 23, 2025, at a cost of $115 to $120. The season itself will span from Monday, November 17, 2025, to Saturday, February 21, 2026. For friends eager to play together, a buddy system is available, allowing players to pair up as long as both parties select each other during registration.

Kearney Parks & Recreation encourages all eligible youth in the community to sign up, make new friends, and enjoy a spirited basketball season this fall and winter.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney Parks Presents Youth Basketball

The Kearney Parks and Recreation Department has announced that it will be offering youth basketball leagues starting November 18.

All games played on Saturdays at Hawthorne Elementary School. Practices will take place at various elementary schools in Kearney on weekday evenings.

Teams are coed and randomly assigned by computer, but players can choose a buddy to play with. Buddies must choose each other to be paired together.

Games will be played on Saturdays at Hawthorne Elementary School. Makeup games could possibly be played mid-week, if snow forces cancellations.

Leagues will be divided in to three categories: 1-2 Grade, 3-4 Grade, and 5-6 Grade.

Fast Info:

Regular Registration: Saturday, October 5, 2024 - Sunday, November 17, 2024

Late Registration: Monday, November 18, 2024 - Monday, November 25, 2024

Program Duration: Monday, November 18, 2024 - Saturday, February 22, 2025

Regular Registration Cost: $95.00

Late Registration Cost: $115.00

Scholarships are available for those in need. Complete confidentiality is maintained throughout the process. Contact Ryan Marcotte at 816-903-4730 for more info.

Brian Watts contributed to this story.