Fitness Center wraps busy winter season with strong youth and Elders programs

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Staff stayed active with youth and adult basketball while continuing twice-weekly Elders fitness classes. Tuesday sessions for Elders focused on stretching, walking, and a variety of exercises, while Thursdays feature our weekly favorite, Elders Volleyball.

BASKETBALL SEASON KEEPS GYM HOPPING

Sports & Rec staff worked with youth of all ages during a fun and fast-paced basketball season, coaching about a dozen teams. The junior high girls league served double duty this winter, preparing players for their school basketball season. Their hard work paid off, with every participant making their school team.

Staff then moved into their busiest stretch, managing weekday and weekend games across two leagues. The Kitsap Peewee League included five teams: coed ages 5–6 (EE level), girls age 7 (E level), boys age 10 (C level), girls age 10 (C level), and boys age 13 (A level).

BIG WINS ACROSS THE BOARD

All peewee teams had strong seasons. From first-time players scoring their first baskets to returning athletes building new skills and sportsmanship, each team found success.

The E level girls finished with just three losses on the season, while all other teams advanced to the playoffs. The C boys and A boys each placed third in the county. The C girls advanced to the championship game, finishing second after a hard fought contest.

Four teams also competed in the Poulsbo Parks & Rec League, including 2nd–3rd grade boys and girls teams and 5th grade boys and girls teams. These groups focused on skill development and learning the game, with no playoffs or championships. All competed well and enjoyed their time on the court.

Several teams also participated in tournaments throughout the winter, including Girls 12U AAU, Boys 8th Grade AAU, and multiple tribal tournaments.

The winter season remains the busiest time of year, with practices and games five days a week, both at the Fitness Center and at gyms across Kitsap County.

Staff are proud of all youth who participated this season, from experienced players to those just learning the fundamentals of dribbling, passing, and shooting. Each athlete showed growth not only in basketball skills but also in teamwork.