Never Miss a Chance to Do the Most Good

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Never Miss a Chance to Do the Most Good

Please enter your name, email and zip code below to sign up!

Please enter your first name
Please enter your last name
Please enter a valid email address
Please enter a valid zip code

Never Miss a Chance to Do the Most Good

Please enter your name, email and zip code below to sign up!

Please enter your first name
Please enter your last name
Please enter a valid email address
Please enter a valid zip code
Sports & Recreation Image Sports & Recreation Image

Sports & Recreation

We aim to enrich individuals & encourage community.

Sports & Recreation Image Sports & Recreation Image

Sports & Recreation

We aim to enrich individuals & encourage community.

Sports & Recreation Image Sports & Recreation Image

Sports & Recreation

We aim to enrich individuals & encourage community.

Sports & Recreation Image Sports & Recreation Image

Sports & Recreation

We aim to enrich individuals & encourage community.

Our sports programs are intended to introduce individuals to athletic competition in an environment that is safe, supportive, and more concerned with experiences than the final score. Our programs focus on developing sportsmanship, self-esteem, integrity, and teamwork. In keeping with The Salvation Army’s mission, our programs strive to inspire individuals to realize their potential through experiences that may transform lives.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kids Sports

 

Our Soccer Program for ages 2-13 is a fun, inclusive, and engaging experience that introduces children to the beautiful game of soccer. Whether your child is just taking their first steps onto the field or developing advanced skills, our program is tailored to meet the needs of all players at different stages of development. We focus on building a strong foundation in soccer while fostering a love for the game and promoting teamwork, fitness, and confidence.

Soccer Programs

Functional Sports Training: Soccer

Personal soccer training is a specialized and individualized approach to improving soccer skills. Whether working individually or with a small group, train with a coach to focus on areas of weakness, perform drills tailored to your needs, and receive personalized feedback and guidance. This type of training allows players to target specific skills, improve their technique, and enhance overall performance on the field.

Please email Sierra Peacock to schedule your training session before you sign up.

Individual Training
30 Minute Session

Single session: $18 members, $25 non-members
Five sessions: $70 members, $105 non-members
Ten sessions: $125 members, $200 non-members

Individual Training
60 Minute Session

Single session: $30 members, $50 non-members
Five sessions: $135 members, $210 non-members
Ten sessions: $250 members, $400 non-members

Small Group Training
(2–4 people)
60 Minute Session

Single session: $50
Five sessions: $212.50
Ten sessions: $400

Kroc Kids Spring Soccer 

Ages 2–3 

Early Registration: Now - February 9th, 2026 
Late registration: February 10th - March 2nd, 2026
Season dates: April 4th - May 9th, 2026 

Times: 9:00 - 11:30 (30-minute time frames)
Cost: $25 ($10 late registration fee)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Location: Kroc Park, 1000 N Keowee Street 45404
Scholarships are available. Scholarship applications for the Spring 25 season will be accepted January 1st–30. DPS plays for free ages PreK-6.

Register

6 week class sessions designed to develop basic motor skills, coordination, and social interaction through simple games with a soccer ball. Parents are encouraged to participate, helping children feel comfortable and confident as they learn to kick, dribble, and have fun with the ball.

Kroc MLS GO Soccer

Ages 4–5 

Early Registration: Now - March 3rd, 2026
Late registration: March 4th - April 3rd, 2026 ($20 Late Fee)
Season dates: May 4th - June 18th, 2026 

Times: Monday games & Thursday practices. 5:30 - 7:45 PM (45-Minute Sessions)
Cost: $60                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Location: Kroc Park, 1000 N Keowee Street 45404 on Mondays. Action Sports, 1103 Gateway Dr., Dayton, OH 45404 on Thursdays.
Scholarships are available. Scholarship applications for the Spring 25 season will be accepted January 1st–30. DPS plays for free ages PreK-6.

Register

Partial refunds are available. A non-refundable fee covers administrative costs, which is $20 for ages 4 and older. 
DPS students in grades PreK–6 are eligible to play for free. Email the student's report card as proof of enrollment to Sierra Peacock before registering.

MLS GO Soccer is a grassroots youth soccer initiative launched by Major League Soccer (MLS) aimed at expanding soccer opportunities for young players across the United States. The program is designed to connect local clubs, schools, and recreational leagues with MLS, providing more accessible soccer programs for kids aged 7 to 13.

The goal of MLS GO is to bridge the gap between recreational play and more competitive environments, giving kids of all skill levels the opportunity to develop their soccer abilities in a fun and structured setting. Here are some key components:

  • Age-Specific Training: Tailored coaching and sessions for children at various stages of development, from early beginners to more advanced youth players.
  • Local and Accessible: Partnering with the Dayton Kroc Center to offer affordable, local soccer programs across cities, often in coordination with MLS clubs.
  • Inclusive Environment: Focus on making soccer fun and accessible for all participants, regardless of skill level or background, with an emphasis on enjoyment, fitness, and participation.
  • Coaching Support: MLS provides resources for coaches, including training materials, coaching clinics, and access to the latest soccer development methods.
  • Pathway to Competitive Soccer: For players looking to advance, MLS GO offers a pathway to competitive soccer, helping bridge the gap to more structured youth academies or leagues.

MLS GO emphasizes the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community, aiming to grow the sport by nurturing a love for soccer at the grassroots level while promoting long-term development pathways for young players.

Please email Sierra Peacock with any questions.

Ages 6–9

Early Registration: Now - January 30th, 2026
Late registration: January 31st - Feb 13th, 2026 ($20 Late Fee)
Season dates: March 2nd - April 23rd, 2026 (Make up and All-star game the following week) 

Times: Monday games & Thursday practices. 5:30 - 7:30 PM (1-Hour Sessions)
Cost: $60                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Location: Kroc Park, 1000 N Keowee Street 45404 on Mondays. Action Sports, 1103 Gateway Dr., Dayton, OH 45404 on Thursdays.
Scholarships are available. Scholarship applications for the Spring 25 season will be accepted January 1st–30. DPS plays for free ages PreK-6.

Register

Partial refunds are available. A non-refundable fee covers administrative costs, which is $20 for ages 4 and older. 
DPS students in grades PreK–6 are eligible to play for free. Email the student's report card as proof of enrollment to Sierra Peacock before registering.

MLS GO Soccer is a grassroots youth soccer initiative launched by Major League Soccer (MLS) aimed at expanding soccer opportunities for young players across the United States. The program is designed to connect local clubs, schools, and recreational leagues with MLS, providing more accessible soccer programs for kids aged 7 to 13.

The goal of MLS GO is to bridge the gap between recreational play and more competitive environments, giving kids of all skill levels the opportunity to develop their soccer abilities in a fun and structured setting. Here are some key components:

  • Age-Specific Training: Tailored coaching and sessions for children at various stages of development, from early beginners to more advanced youth players.
  • Local and Accessible: Partnering with the Dayton Kroc Center to offer affordable, local soccer programs across cities, often in coordination with MLS clubs.
  • Inclusive Environment: Focus on making soccer fun and accessible for all participants, regardless of skill level or background, with an emphasis on enjoyment, fitness, and participation.
  • Coaching Support: MLS provides resources for coaches, including training materials, coaching clinics, and access to the latest soccer development methods.
  • Pathway to Competitive Soccer: For players looking to advance, MLS GO offers a pathway to competitive soccer, helping bridge the gap to more structured youth academies or leagues.

MLS GO emphasizes the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community, aiming to grow the sport by nurturing a love for soccer at the grassroots level while promoting long-term development pathways for young players.

Please email Sierra Peacock with any questions.

Ages 10–13

Early Registration: Now - February 6th, 2026
Late registration: February 7th - February 27th, 2026 ($20 Late Fee)
Season dates: March 18th - May 9th (Make up and All-star game the following week)  

Times: Wednesday practices 5:30 - 7:30 PM (1-Hour Sessions) at Action Sports & Saturday Games 12:00 - 2:00 at Kroc Park
Cost: $60                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Location: Kroc Park, 1000 N Keowee Street 45404 on Saturdays. Action Sports, 1103 Gateway Dr., Dayton, OH 45404 on Wednesdays.
Scholarships are available. Scholarship applications for the Spring 25 season will be accepted January 1st–30. DPS plays for free ages PreK-6.

Register

Partial refunds are available. A non-refundable fee covers administrative costs, which is $20 for ages 4 and older. 
DPS students in grades PreK–6 are eligible to play for free. Email the student's report card as proof of enrollment to Sierra Peacock before registering.

MLS GO Soccer is a grassroots youth soccer initiative launched by Major League Soccer (MLS) aimed at expanding soccer opportunities for young players across the United States. The program is designed to connect local clubs, schools, and recreational leagues with MLS, providing more accessible soccer programs for kids aged 7 to 13.

The goal of MLS GO is to bridge the gap between recreational play and more competitive environments, giving kids of all skill levels the opportunity to develop their soccer abilities in a fun and structured setting. Here are some key components:

  • Age-Specific Training: Tailored coaching and sessions for children at various stages of development, from early beginners to more advanced youth players.
  • Local and Accessible: Partnering with the Dayton Kroc Center to offer affordable, local soccer programs across cities, often in coordination with MLS clubs.
  • Inclusive Environment: Focus on making soccer fun and accessible for all participants, regardless of skill level or background, with an emphasis on enjoyment, fitness, and participation.
  • Coaching Support: MLS provides resources for coaches, including training materials, coaching clinics, and access to the latest soccer development methods.
  • Pathway to Competitive Soccer: For players looking to advance, MLS GO offers a pathway to competitive soccer, helping bridge the gap to more structured youth academies or leagues.

MLS GO emphasizes the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community, aiming to grow the sport by nurturing a love for soccer at the grassroots level while promoting long-term development pathways for young players.

Please email Sierra Peacock with any questions.

Join our Youth Street Soccer Camp and experience the ultimate combination of fun and teamwork! Designed for young athletes of all skill levels, this camp offers a supportive and energetic environment, where players can develop their soccer abilities while making lasting memories.

What to Expect

  • Skill Development: Master the fundamentals of dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending through engaging drills and activities.
  • Technical Skills: Campers will have the opportunity daily to learn about the technical aspects of the games such as passing, dribbling, shooting, and skill moves.
  • Tactical Skills: Players will get the opportunity daily to understand positioning, throw-ins, goal kicks, corner kicks, free kicks, and other tactical aspects of the game.
  • Teamwork and Sportsmanship: Learn the importance of working together and supporting teammates, on and off the field.
  • Expert Coaching: Train with US-certified coaches who are passionate about developing young players and fostering a love for the game.

Highlights

  • Turf Facilities.
  • Camp Shirt.
  • Daily Contest/prizes and Written Camper Evaluations at the end of the week.
  • Guest Speakers Daily.

What to Bring?

  • Closed-toed shoes.
  • Refillable water bottle.
  • Change of clothes.
  • Do not bring electronics.

Street Soccer Camp
Ages: 6 - 12 (boys and girls).
Dates: August 3rd - 7th
Time: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM

Winter Discount: January 15th - January 31st ($140).
Early Bird: February 1st - February 28th ($155).
General Registration: April - May 18th ($170).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Kids can be dropped off as early as 8 AM, breakfast will be served. Must pick up the child no later than 4:35 PM. Any time after is $1 per minute.

Register

Basketball Programs

Dayton United Elite Basketball

Dayton United Tryouts
November 4 & 6

6th Grade Boys | 6:30–8:30 PM

(Dayton Public Schools Students Play Free if Selected to roster) 

If you have questions or would like to request more information, please contact Robert Kirksey.

Register

To register, you will need to create an account if you don't have one already. Once you log in, go to the Sports and Activities tab.

Other Sports Programs

Dayton United Cheerleading

Girls grades 2–6

Cheer Camp
Grades 2 & 3: September 13, 12–2 PM
Grades 4–6: September 20, 12–2 PM

Cheer Tryouts
September 27
Grades 2 & 3: 10 AM–12 PM
Grades 4–6: 12 PM–2 PM

Register

To register, you will need to create an account if you don't have one already. Once you log in, go to the Sports and Activities tab.

Take your cheer game to a whole new level! Dayton United Cheerleading gives participants training in cheers, jumps, and dances to cheerleaders of all experience levels. Attendance at tryouts is required to make the team. Cheer Camp is offered this fall! Be sure to attend to maximize your skills and opportunities for the upcoming tryouts and season.

DPS students receive a 100% scholarship.

Please email Robert Kirksey with any questions.

Ages 4-6, Ages 7-10, and 11-16
Our tennis program offers engaging and age appropriate classes designed to teach foundational tennis skills. Participants will learn essential competencies such as rallying, serving and scoring, while progressively working toward playing short games and sets with their teammates.
Students will work towards playing short games and sets with their teammates by engaging their agility, balance, and coordination honing essential tennis skills: forehands, backhands, volleys, and serves.
Agility, Balance, and Coordination: Activities designed to enhance physical skills that are crucial for tennis.
Core Tennis Techniques: Emphasis on mastering the four essential strokes: Forehands, Backhands, Volleys, and Serves.
Classes utilize equipment tailored to the student's age groups, adhering to USTA (United States Tennis Association) guidelines.
Tennis Balls: Red, orange, and green dot tennis balls for optimal control and skill development.
Rackets: 21-inch or larger tennis rackets, appropriate for the students’ size and abilities.

Kroc Kids Blue (Age 4-6) 

(Includes a USTA Official Jersey) 
Students will practice hand-eye coordination skills with the ball and racket, develop their athletic base, and learn basic Tennis terminology.

Kroc Kids Red (Age 7-10)

Practice rallying skills with a partner, develop an athletic base, and learn basic Tennis terminology and scoring.

Kroc Kids Orange (Ages 10- Up)

More advanced practice of rallying skills with a partner, develop an athletic base, and learn basic Tennis terminology and scoring.

Spring 2026 Registration Dates

Blue Age 4-6 Thursdays 
Cost: $35 
Registration: December 1st - February 22nd 
Early Registration:  December 1st - January 31st 
Late Registration: February 1st - February 22nd (Late Fee $20) 
Thursday Dates: March 19th - April 30th 
Time: 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM 
Held in the gym besides April 9th, when it will be held outdoors. If the weather is bad, it will be cancelled. 

Blue Age 4-6 Saturdays 
Cost: $35 
Registration: December 1st - February 22nd 
Early Registration:  December 1st - January 31st 
Late Registration: February 1st - February 22nd (Late Fee $20) 
Saturday Dates: March 21st  - May 2nd  
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM 
Held in the gym besides April 11th, when it will be held outdoors, or if the weather is bad, it will be cancelled.

Red Age 7-10 Thursdays 
Cost: $35 
Registration: December 1st - February 22nd 
Early Registration:  December 1st - January 31st 
Late Registration: February 1st - February 22nd (Late Fee $20) 
Thursday Dates: March 19th - April 30th 
Time: 6:15 PM - 7:00 PM 
Held in the gym besides April 9th, when it will be held outdoors. If the weather is bad, it will be cancelled.

Red Age 7-10 Saturdays 
Cost: $35 
Registration: December 1st - February 22nd 
Early Registration: December 1st- January 31st 
Late Registration: February 1st - February 22nd (Late Fee $20) 
Saturday Dates: March 21st  - May 2nd  
Time: 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM 
Held in the gym besides April 18th, when it will be held outdoors, or if the weather is bad, it will be cancelled.

Orange Age 11-16 Saturdays 
*13-16 must be beginners 
Cost: $35 
Registration: December 1st - February 22nd 
Early Registration:  December 1st - January 31st 
Late Registration: February 1st - February 22nd (Late Fee $20) 
Saturday Dates: March 21st - May 2nd  
Time: 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM 
Held in the gym besides April 18th, when it will be held outdoors, or if the weather is bad, it will be cancelled.

Register

Kroc Kids Tennis Open Play
March 7th, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. 
We will be hosting an open play date for you to experience our Kroc Kids USTA Tennis program. If you are a beginner or pro, come on out and hit the courts. This is a free event, register here!

 

Day Summer Camp where fun meets fitness and kids explore a variety of sports in an exciting and supportive environment. Designed for campers of all skill levels, this camp offers a full day of engaging activities that promote teamwork, confidence, and athletic development. Don't miss this opportunity to try multiple sports in one program! Build friendships, learn teamwork, and create unforgettable summer memories. Spaces are limited, so register today for this action-packed adventure.

What to Expect

  • Variety of Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, kickball, and more.
  • Skill Building: Drills, games, and challenges to improve coordination, agility, and teamwork.
  • Games and Competitions: Scrimmages, obstacle courses, and team challenges.
  • Fitness and Fun: Mix of structured sports and playful free time to balance skill development and enjoyment.

Age Groups and Coaches

  • Campers are divided into 6–9 and 10–13 age groups to ensure age-appropriate engaging activities.
  • Skilled and enthusiastic coaches prioritize safety and fun while fostering a love for sports.
  • Regular water breaks, snack times, and lunch break (meals may be provided or brought from home).

What to Bring?

  • Closed-toed shoes.
  • Refillable water bottle.
  • Change of clothes.
  • Do not bring electronics.

Multi-Sport Camp
Ages: 6–13
Dates: May 26–May 29
Time: 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Register

Sports for Dayton Public School Students

The Salvation Army Dayton Kroc Center has partnered with Dayton Public School District to provide children in Kindergarten-6th grade the opportunity to participate in after-school recreation programs for free. The Salvation Army has committed to giving every DPS student a scholarship of 50% off the cost of programming. The remaining 50% is covered by Dayton Public Schools.


This partnership was created to ensure the students of Dayton Public Schools have the much-needed assistance to develop their athletic abilities and inspire them to realize their potential. Open to the children are four Kroc Kids recreation-level sports leagues and two elite-level sports leagues. The programs included in the partnership are Kroc Kids soccer (grades K-6), Kroc Kids and elite basketball (grades 2-6), Kroc Kids and elite volleyball (grades 4-6), and Kroc Kids flag football (grades K-6).
If you have questions or would like to request more information, please contact Robert Kirksey.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adult Sports

Pickleball Open Play

Kroc Park Courts: May 1–October 12
Monday–Friday: 8 AM–noon (beginning May 1, courts 4–8 only)
Friday: 4:00–7:45 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–noon (no staff will be present, use the front entrance)

Gymnasium: Beginning October 14
Monday–Friday, 8 AM–12 PM

Court Use Recommendations
Courts 1 & 2: Lessons (Beginner if there are no lessons)
Courts 3 & 4: Beginner
Courts 5–8: Intermediate and Advanced

Some courts may be reserved for lessons or ladder league play.

Pickleball Leagues

Monday–Thursday, 6:30–8:30 PM

Outside leagues play at Kroc Park! Please visit their websites to sign up.

Gem City Social Sportcial

Pickleball Lessons

Whether you are a beginner or advanced, you can up your pickleball game with lessons taught by our nationally certified pickleball instructor and coach, John Grimley.

Individual Lessons
1/2-Hour Lesson
Members: Adults: $20
Non-Members: Adults $25
1-Hour Lesson
Members: Adults: $40, youth: $25
Non-Members: Adults & youth: $50

Group Lessons
1-Hour Lesson

2 Players: $30 each
3 Players: $25 each
4 Players: $20 each

4-Week Lesson Package
1-Hour Lesson

Individual: $160
2 Players: $100 each
3 Players: $80 each
4 Players: $60 each

To schedule lessons, please email John Grimley or Erin May.

Functional Sports Training: Pickleball

Improve your pickleball game with strength training! Work on your lateral movement and your balance to step up your game. Learn and strengthen the muscles you use during matches.

Sessions are offered before or after pickleball. Choose from a 30-minute or a 1-hour session.

Individual Training
30 Minute Session

Single session: $18 members, $25 non-members
Five sessions: $70 members, $105 non-members
Ten sessions: $125 members, $200 non-members

Individual Training
60 Minute Session

Single session: $30 members, $50 non-members
Five sessions: $135 members, $210 non-members
Ten sessions: $250 members, $400 non-members

Small Group Training
(2–4 people)
60 Minute Session

Single session: $50
Five sessions: $212.50
Ten sessions: $400

For more information, please email Erin May.

Tennis Lessons

Individual Lessons
1/2-Hour Lesson
Members: Adults: $20
Non-Members: Adults $25
1-Hour Lesson
Members: Adults: $40, youth: $25
Non-Members: Adults & youth: $50

To schedule lessons, please email Erin May.

Group Lessons
1-Hour Lesson

2 Players: $30 each
3 Players: $25 each
4 Players: $20 each

4-Week Lesson Package
1-Hour Lesson

Individual: $160
2 Players: $100 each
3 Players: $80 each
4 Players: $60 each

Register

Open Ping Pong

Schedule
Mondays, 3:00–5:00 PM
Tuesdays, 3:00–5:00 PM
Wednesdays, 3:00–5:00 PM
Thursdays, 3:00–5:00 PM

Email Erin May for more information.

Mini Pickleball Tournaments 

November 5: Beginner Doubles
Women's Doubles: 8–10 AM
Men's Doubles: 8–10 AM
Mixed Doubles: 10 AM–12 PM

November 12: Intermediate Doubles
Women's Doubles: 8–10 AM
Men's Doubles: 8–10 AM
Mixed Doubles: 10 AM–12 PM

November 19: Advanced Doubles
Women's Doubles: 8–10 AM
Men's Doubles: 8–10 AM
Mixed Doubles: 10 AM–12 PM

November 26: Open Mini Singles
Women's Singles: 8–11 AM
Men's Singles: 8–11 AM

Where: Kroc Gym
Type: Round-Robin + Single Elimination with Consolation
Round-Robin is 1 game first to 11
Top 4 Enter Single-Elimination with Consolation
Single-Elimination with Consolation is 1 game to 11, win by 2
Cost: $20.00/person for 1, 2, or 3 Events

For more information, email John Grimley

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Kroc Park

Please check in at the welcome desk for access to Kroc Park.

Kroc Park features a state-of-the-art turf soccer/lacrosse field, with stadium seating, outdoor pickleball courts, auxiliary fields, and a paved walking path. It is used by the Recreation Department at the Kroc Center and hosts multiple sports leagues and events. 

For questions about rentals at Kroc Park, contact Erin May.

Have Questions?

For questions concerning Sports & Recreation, please contact our Fitness and Recreation Assistant Manager, Robert Kirksey.
For questions about Kroc soccer programming, please contact our Soccer Specialist, Sierra Peacock.

Meet Our Staff

Robert Kirksey
Fitness & Recreation Assistant Manager

Robert has over 8 years of sports and recreation experience with youth and adults. Some of his favorite things to do at the Kroc Center are working with youth during Basketball and summer camp programs. When Robert is not working he likes to volunteer at Huber Heights City Schools where he helps middle school and high school athletics prepare for games and after-school programs. He also enjoys spending time with his family and watching sports on the weekends.

Sierra Peacock
Soccer Specialist

Sierra has a competitive soccer background including playing for the University of Findlay and the Dayton Dutch Lions. Passionate about sharing the love for the sport, she enjoys developing soccer programs for the community. In her free time, she enjoys exploring nature and hiking with her dog.

Have Questions?

Call Us Email Us