The 2022 Ultimate Guide to Kids Sports Around Kalamazoo

Southwest Michigan Kids Sports Guide

When was the last time you heard your child say “I want to try Lacrosse” or “Can we learn how to ice skate“? In our household, and I’m sure many others, this is a recurring theme.

Children are inquisitive and have a natural desire to try out new activities.

Thankfully, the Kalamazoo area is loaded with kids sports teams and classes, no matter the age of the child, and no matter the interest. If your child is interested in introductory tennis lessons, or ready to join a soccer league, below you’ll find a list of places around Kalamazoo that offer sports for kids.

The list is organized by sport, and new classes and teams are popping up all the time, but we’re confident that no matter their athletic interests, there is a place where kids will have fun and can get their game on.

In this guide:

Baseball, Softball & T-Ball

If your kid loves the Kalamazoo Growlers, and grabbing their trusty mitt and playing catch, you might want to get them in on the baseball action happening in Southwest Michigan.

Most programs start at the Preschool age, so your little one can be swinging a bat as early as they can hold one. Look for spring signup during winter and be ready to play this kids sport as soon as that snow clears.

Basketball

Dribble, shoot and get ready to score those 3-pointers. Whether your child is looking for a camp to develop a specific technique or looking for a serious league, you’ll find it below.

Basketball classes typically run year-round, with competitive teams active during the school year.

Fencing

Kids have the chance year-round to learn the basics and gain mastery in this fun Olympic sport. Get ready to get those foils up and en garde!

Football

Whether your kid is a flag football or a traditional football fan, with vision to play for the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day, you can find a number of lessons and leagues here in Kalamazoo.

Classes run year-round, but leagues get ready to kick off as that first fall air blows.

Golf

Opportunities abound in Kalamazoo to perfect that swing that nabs a hole-in-one. Or, consider joining a league to improve your child’s golf game with options for all ability levels. Classes are available year-round.

Hockey & Ice Skating

Although traditionally a winter sport, Kalamazoo offers classes year-round for tykes through high school. Strap on some skates, or have them try floor hockey instead.

Lacrosse

Lacrosse has gained popularity in Southwest Michigan in schools. For children interested in joining a league, there is now an option in Kalamazoo.

Running

Kids are always running us ragged, but there are other alternatives to get kids involved in running as a sport. Check out one of many Family-Friendly Fun Runs that occur during the year.  Looking for a formal running program, consider:

Skateboarding

Many kids want to learn skateboarding, but lack the skills and knowledge and may give up after one too many falls. To gain confidence in a safe environment, kids can take classes and get rolling in no time.

Skiing & Snowboarding

When the first snow falls, it’s time to hit those slopes. We are lucky to have several ski resorts in Southwest Michigan without having to trek too far north. Consider the following ski resorts for kids classes, programs, and events, from ages four years and up.

Soccer

Soccer holds the spot of one of the most internationally played sports, and it’s a popular sport for many kids. There are a ton of year-round class options and leagues in the fall, perfect for those falling temperatures.

Sports Combo

Your child isn’t sure of what sport they want to hone in on? Take a combo class where they’ll have an opportunity to sample a variety of sports to narrow it down.

Tennis & Racquetball

Kalamazoo hosts the USTA Boys National Championships every year, and your kids might be ready to run around the tennis court rather than the house. Lessons and leagues are available beginning in preschool.

Volleyball

Kids can bump, set, and spike their way on a court, or at the beach. Volleyball isn’t only a ‘teen sport’ anymore. Kalamazoo offers programs for elementary-aged children.

Wrestling

Kids are always tackling their parents or sibling around the house. Take this energy and allow kids to hone their skills in the sport of wrestling. Wrestling teaches kids to use their entire body. The season typically starts with the school year.