Children participating in sports is as American as apple pie and picnics. There are many sports, individual and team, for children to choose from. Staying active and being involved in the community is fun and beneficial for both kids and their parents. The city of Jacksonville understands the importance of this and makes it possible for sports organizations to operate and grow within the city.
Soccer
Americans have been slow to embrace soccer; however, it is the fastest growing and most popular sport for American girls to play. In Jacksonville there are soccer organizations offering both recreational and competitive youth teams. The American Youth Soccer Organization is a national nonprofit organization teaching youth soccer for children ages 4 to 18. There are also independent club soccer organizations in Jacksonville. The soccer organizations have teams playing in the fall, with training and camps in the spring and summer.
Baseball
The city of Jacksonville offers several baseball leagues for both boys and girls. The baseball season starts in March and runs through the end of June. Excell Park, where the games are held, has four youth baseball fields that are fenced and lighted. There is also a concession stand and conveniently located bathrooms. In Jacksonville, there are baseball programs for all ages to develop players to their best, competitive level.
Football
Youth football teams are made up of players ages 5 to 15 years old. In youth football, players are placed on teams by age and weight to ensure balanced teams and player safety. According to the Jacksonville Pop Warner Youth Football organization, youth football players have 50 percent fewer injuries per capita than bicycle riders in the same age range. The youth football season starts in August and runs through late November to December, depending on the team's performance in the area playoffs.
Parks
Jacksonville is home to many family-friendly parks. The largest of the parks is Dupree Park with 168 acres, two baseball fields, four softball fields, four soccer/football fields, a walking activity trail, a lake with fishing pier, a dog park, pavilions and a playground. There is also a separate skate park in Jacksonville open to all.
Community Center
Jacksonville opened a 56,000-square-foot community center in 1995. It holds an indoor pool, gym, two racquetball courts, fitness room, exercise classroom and indoor and outdoor walking tracks. This facility holds activities, events and classes for kids, families and adults.
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