About
Y Sports at McGaw YMCA offers kids and families the chance to play basketball, volleyball, racquetball, and pickleball. The program includes Preschool Tiny Tot Sports, basketball programs for elementary and middle schoolers, and parent-participation events like races. Preschool Tiny Tot Sports sessions use a curriculum with warm-ups, character-building, skill development, and fun games, and the basketball programs for elementary and middle schoolers follow the Jr. NBA instructional curriculum with a focus on skill progression and teamwork.
• Schedule: Predictable schedules to fit families’ busy lives
• Price: Financial assistance available for eligible households
Experienced, professional coaches serve as positive role models and are trained in youth development and sports. The program emphasizes recreational and inclusive sports where everyone plays, with a focus on teamwork, cooperation, non-elimination activities, skill development, sportsmanship, and values. Activities include fun, imaginative themed sessions such as outer space adventures, Paw Patrol, and puppet sharks, and there are family-friendly options that include the whole family. Kids Club offers on-site babysitting for Family Membership holders.
Since 1885, the McGaw YMCA has been described as a trusted pillar of the Evanston community, fostering growth, belonging, and transformation for youth and families. The YMCA is a not-for-profit social services organization dedicated to Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. The Y is the nation’s leading youth sports provider and serves over 1 million kids each year, and it is also the place where basketball, volleyball, and racquetball were invented. The organization prioritizes safety, including facilities and activity design, child abuse prevention, and CPR/first aid. McGaw YMCA’s President/CEO has received the 2025 Mikva Award.
Parent and member comments describe McGaw YMCA as a wonderful family facility with varied classes taught by professional and friendly staff, and they note that there are two pools to handle different needs. Other testimonials mention friendly and welcoming staff, helpful front desk support, and that it feels like a cornerstone of the Evanston community, with some members specifically highlighting how much they enjoy playing pickleball there.
Last updated January 15, 2026.
• Schedule: Predictable schedules to fit families’ busy lives
• Price: Financial assistance available for eligible households
Experienced, professional coaches serve as positive role models and are trained in youth development and sports. The program emphasizes recreational and inclusive sports where everyone plays, with a focus on teamwork, cooperation, non-elimination activities, skill development, sportsmanship, and values. Activities include fun, imaginative themed sessions such as outer space adventures, Paw Patrol, and puppet sharks, and there are family-friendly options that include the whole family. Kids Club offers on-site babysitting for Family Membership holders.
Since 1885, the McGaw YMCA has been described as a trusted pillar of the Evanston community, fostering growth, belonging, and transformation for youth and families. The YMCA is a not-for-profit social services organization dedicated to Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. The Y is the nation’s leading youth sports provider and serves over 1 million kids each year, and it is also the place where basketball, volleyball, and racquetball were invented. The organization prioritizes safety, including facilities and activity design, child abuse prevention, and CPR/first aid. McGaw YMCA’s President/CEO has received the 2025 Mikva Award.
Parent and member comments describe McGaw YMCA as a wonderful family facility with varied classes taught by professional and friendly staff, and they note that there are two pools to handle different needs. Other testimonials mention friendly and welcoming staff, helpful front desk support, and that it feels like a cornerstone of the Evanston community, with some members specifically highlighting how much they enjoy playing pickleball there.
Last updated January 15, 2026.
Is this your business? There is no cost, but you will be asked to sign up or log in.