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

Soccer Programs

ELITE SOCCER
Dayton Kroc Soccer Club Tryouts

Join Dayton Kroc Soccer Club for the spring season! 
We are looking to add players to our roster for the following competitive teams:
Boys born in 3013, 2015, or 2016
Girls born in 2014

Fill out the Interest Form

Tryouts are an opportunity to join the Elite team and commit to the fall 2024 and spring 2025 seasons. Players will demonstrate their abilities in various drills and scrimmage matches guided by our experienced coaching staff. Anyone who has a love for soccer and a desire to improve is welcome! Let's kick off the season together with determination and passion for the game.

Season information
Spring Season: March–June
Cost: $100 per season (due August 3)
Scholarships are available. 

Join the Dayton Kroc Soccer family! Elite teams will compete against other teams locally, and possibly in Columbus or Cincinnati. The schedule will include 2-3 practices each week, in addition to games. Please note that travel to games is required.

For more information, please email Sierra Peacock.

Kroc Kids MLS GO Soccer

Ages 7–13
Early Registration: Ends February 4, 2025
Late Registration ($20 fee): February 5–25
Program dates: March 17–May 8

Schedule:
Ages 7–9: Mondays and Thursdays, 5:30–6:30 PM
Ages 10–13: Mondays and Thursdays, 6:45–7:45 PM

Focus on technique, positioning, and rules of the game for both beginners and returning players who want to build on their skills. MLS GO aims to bridge the gap between recreational and competitive leagues, emphasizing teamwork and love for soccer.

Location:
Mondays: Kroc Park, 1000 Keowee St, Dayton, OH 45404
Thursdays: Action Sports, 1103 Gateway Dr, Dayton, OH 45404

Cost: $60
Partial refunds are available. A non-refundable fee covers administrative costs, which is $20 for ages 4 and older. Refunds must be requested before March 24.

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.

Register

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.

Kroc Kids Spring Soccer

Ages 4–6

Registration: Now–March 14, 2025
Late registration: March 15, 2025–April 7, 2025 ($20 late processing fee)
Season dates: May 6, 2025–June 14, 2025

Schedule
Tuesdays, 5:30–7:30 PM & Saturdays, 8:00–10:00 AM
Each team will be assigned a 45-minute session between these times.

Location
Tuesdays: Acton Sports, 1103 Gateway Dr, Dayton, OH 45404
Saturdays: Dayton Kroc Center, 1000 N Keowee St, Dayton, OH 45404

Cost: $40
Scholarships are available. Scholarship applications will be accepted.
DPS students in grades K–6 are eligible to play for free. Before signing up, email the student's report card as proof of enrollment to Sierra Peacock prior to registration.

Register

Kroc Kids Soccer teaches early skill development by focusing on the foundations, including dribbling, passing, and kicking, using imaginative play and small group activities.  Players will build confidence with sessions that are centered around enjoyment, movement, and simple soccer concepts that promote a positive experience with the game. Teams will compete as 5v5 with the goalkeeper.

Refunds: Refunds must be requested by May 6, 2025. A $20 non-refundable administration fee will help cover the accrued cost once a child registers.

Kroc Kids Spring Soccer

Ages 2–3

Early Registration: Now - March 14, 2025
Late registration: March 15, 2025 - April 7, 2025 ($10 late fee)
Season dates: May 10, 2025 - June 14, 2025

Schedule: Saturdays, 10:00 - 1:00 PM (30 minute increments)

Location: Dayton Kroc Center, 1000 N Keowee St, Dayton, OH 45404

Cost: $25
Scholarships are available.

Team and time assignments will be sent out no later than April 10, 2025.

Register

With Kroc Kids Soccer, children will build confidence, balance, and coordination while learning the basics of soccer, including toe-taps, directional shooting, and dribbling. Parents will assist their children in the team activities. Since we focus on having fun and building skills over competition, there will be no games for this age level.

Refunds: Refunds must be requested by May 6, 2025. A $10 non-refundable administration fee will help cover the accrued cost once a child registers.

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

Street Soccer

Schedule: December 23rd, 27th, 30th, and January 3rd
Ages U8 - U15
U8 - U10: 12:15 - 1:15 PM
U11 - U12: 1:15 - 2:15 PM
U13 - U15: 2:15 - 3:15 PM

Members Cost: Members: Free

Nonmembers Cost: $5/session/child. Payment is completed in person and can be done the day of for nonmembers.

*Walk ins are allowed

Sign up now! 

Basketball Programs

Basketball Skill Sessions (Ages 7-13)

Spring 2025

Our basketball skill sessions for ages 7 - 13 are designed to help young athletes develop a strong foundation in the fundamentals of basketball while fostering teamwork and confidence. Each session focuses on age-appropriate skill development through engaging drills, activities, and gameplay. This Program is perfect for young players looking to improve their skills, prepare for team play, or simply enjoy the excitement of basketball in a supportive and and encouraging environment.

Key areas of development-

Ball Handling: Learn and refine dribbling techniques to improve control and coordination.

Shooting: Master proper shooting form and techniques, from layups to jump shots.

Passing: Develop accuracy and timing for effective team communication and ball movement.

Defense: Practice defensive positioning, footwork, and strategies to guard opponents effectively. 

Game IQ: Understand basic basketball rules, court positioning, and strategies to enhance overall gameplay.

Program Highlights-

  • Sessions tailored to the skill levels of beginners and intermediate players.
  • Fun and high energy drills designed to improve agility, coordination, and fitness.
  • Opportunities to apply learned skills in small sided games and scrimmages.
  • Emphasis on sportsmanship, teamwork, and building confidence on and off the court.

April 28th - June 4th

Ages 7 - 13: $50 (1 hour session) Skill sessions Mondays/Wednesdays 7 - 9 5:30 - 6:30 PM & 10 - 13 6:45 - 7:45 PM

Cost: $50

Early registration: January 15th - February 23rd.

Late registration: February 24th - April 6th is a $20 late fee that will be added. No registrations will be accepted after April 7th.

* All scholarships must be submitted to our scholarship coordinator by this date.

* All DPS students must be registered by this date. 

Register

Kroc Kids Spring Basketball

Ages 2 & 3

Early Registration: Ends February 23
Late Registration ($20 fee): February 24–April 6
DPS students must register during early registration.
Scholarship applications must be submitted during early registration.

Season dates: April 29–June 3
Schedule: Tuesdays, 6:00–7:30 PM (30-minute sessions)
Location: Kroc Center Gymnasium
Cost: $25

Register

For DPS Students
Dayton Public Schools students in grades PreK-6 are eligible to play for free! Email the student’s report card to Robert Kirksey before registering.

Program Highlights
The Kroc Kids Basketball Program for ages 2-6 introduces young children to the game of basketball in a fun, interactive, and engaging environment. Our goal is to develop basic motor skills, coordination, and a love for the game while ensuring that participants have an enjoyable and positive experience on the court.

  • Fun and Engaging Environment: Each session is designed to keep young children engaged through playful drills, mini-games, and age-appropriate exercises that make learning basketball enjoyable.
  • Social Skills and Teamwork: This program encourages interacting with peers, helping kids learn valuable social skills, teamwork, and sharing through group activities and team-based exercises.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Our coaches emphasize encouragement, effort, and having fun over competition. Every child is supported and motivated to participate, ensuring a positive experience that fosters a love for basketball.
  • Experienced Coaches: Our trained coaches are experienced in working with young children and ensure each session is safe, structured, and tailored to the specific developmental needs of the age group.
  • Introduction to Basketball: This program is a perfect introduction to basketball for little ones, where they can learn the fundamentals of the sport, make new friends, and build confidence in a nurturing and playful environment.
  • Age-appropriate Skills:
    - Focus on basic motor skills & hand-eye coordination
    - Introduce the basketball through fun activities such as dribbling, rolling, and shooting into smaller hoops
    - Parents are encouraged to participate alongside their children for a comforting and engaging experience

Refund Policy
A non-refundable fee helps cover the cost that is accrued once a child registers for the program, which is $10 for ages 2 & 3. Refunds must be requested before the program begins.

For questions, email Robert Kirksey.

Kroc Kids Spring Basketball

Ages 4–6

Early Registration: Ends February 23
Late Registration ($20 fee): February 24–April 6
DPS students must register during early registration.
Scholarship applications must be submitted during early registration.

Season dates: April 28–June 5
Schedule: Thursdays, 6:00–7:45 PM (45-minute sessions)
Location: Kroc Center Gymnasium
Cost: $40

Register

For DPS Students
Dayton Public Schools students in grades PreK-6 are eligible to play for free! Email the student’s report card to Robert Kirksey before registering.

Program Highlights
The Kroc Kids Basketball Program for ages 2-6 introduces young children to the game of basketball in a fun, interactive, and engaging environment. Our goal is to develop basic motor skills, coordination, and a love for the game while ensuring that participants have an enjoyable and positive experience on the court.

  • Fun and Engaging Environment: Each session is designed to keep young children engaged through playful drills, mini-games, and age-appropriate exercises that make learning basketball enjoyable.
  • Social Skills and Teamwork: This program encourages interacting with peers, helping kids learn valuable social skills, teamwork, and sharing through group activities and team-based exercises.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Our coaches emphasize encouragement, effort, and having fun over competition. Every child is supported and motivated to participate, ensuring a positive experience that fosters a love for basketball.
  • Experienced Coaches: Our trained coaches are experienced in working with young children and ensure each session is safe, structured, and tailored to the specific developmental needs of the age group.
  • Introduction to Basketball: This program is a perfect introduction to basketball for little ones, where they can learn the fundamentals of the sport, make new friends, and build confidence in a nurturing and playful environment.
  • Age-appropriate Skills
    - Children will learn fundamental basketball skills like dribbling, passing, shooting, and movement
    - The focus is on skill-building through games and simple drills that are fun and easy to follow

Refund Policy
A non-refundable fee helps cover the cost that is accrued once a child registers for the program, which is $20 for ages 4 & older. Refunds must be requested before the program begins.

For questions, email Robert Kirksey.

 

Dayton United Elite Basketball

Boys grades 2-6 & girls grades 5-6

Season: October–March

Tryouts: Fall 2025

Registrants will receive their tryout day and time by email a week in advance. Because this program is based on tryouts, not all players may be selected for the team. Teams will practice twice a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays. They will play other local teams in the Metro League. Please note that travel to games is required.

Other Sports Programs

Dayton United Cheerleading

Girls grades 2–6

Cheer Camp: TBD
Tryouts: TBD
Season dates: October–March
Practice schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
Location: Kroc Center Gymnasium

Register

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 on September 7! 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.

This class will teach students basic tennis competencies such as rallying, serving, and scoring. Students will work towards playing short games and sets with teammates using their agility, balance, and coordination to help develop the four essential skills in tennis: forehands, backhands, volleys, and serves. This class uses orange and green dot tennis balls along with 25 inch+ tennis rackets per USTA (United States Tennis Association).

Session 1

Ages: 7 - 13

Cost: $16 per session (Can sign up one or both days)

*5 Minimum to hold class, maximum of 14 in class

*Early registration October 28th - February 1st

*$10 Late fee February 1st - February 16th 

Dates: March 4th - March 27th

Tuesday ages 7 - 9 @5:30 - 6:30 PM

Tuesday ages 10 - 13 @6:30 - 7:30 PM

Thursday ages 7 - 9 @5:30 - 6:30 PM

Thursday ages 10 - 13 @6:30 - 7:30 PM

Session 2

Ages: 7 - 13

Cost: $22

*5 minimum to hold class, maximum of 14 in class

*$10 Late registration April 1st - April 12th

Dates: April 22nd - May 22nd (Tuesday or Thursday)

Ages 7 - 9 @5:30 - 6:30 PM

Ages 10 - 13 @6:30 - 7:30 PM

Register

 

This class will teach students basic tennis competencies such as rallying, serving, and scoring. Students will work towards playing short games and sets with teammates using their agility, balance, and coordination to help develop the four essential skills in tennis: forehands, backhands, volleys, and serves. This class uses orange and green dot tennis balls along with 25 inch+ tennis rackets per USTA (United States Tennis Association).

Summer session

Ages: 4 - 6

Cost: $30 per session (Can sign up one or both days)

Dates: June 21st - July 26th (Saturdays)

Saturdays 9:15 - 10 AM, 10:00 - 10:45 AM, 10:45 - 11:45 AM

 

4-5 year old's, 9:15 - 10:00am
6-7 year old's, 10:00 - 10:45am
8-10 year old's, level 2/advanced group, 10:45 - 11:45am

For questions, email Erin May. 

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

Senior Pickleball Tournament

Ages 50+

Dates: April 14th - April 17th
Registration: $45 per person (registration opens February 17th and ends April 4th at noon). Fee is good for One doubles, One mixed doubles, and One singles.

How to register:

  • Fill out registration form and bring it to the Kroc Center's front desk with cash or card for payment.

Email John Grimley for more information. 

Register

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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