Part of SFIA’s 2034WARD Campaign, First Event Welcomes Atlanta Youth in Partnership with the YMCA
WASHINGTON, DC (March 18, 2026) — The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) will kick off its Youth Sports Clinic Series this Saturday at The Villages at Carver Family YMCA in Atlanta as part of its decade-long 2034WARD Campaign.
SFIA’s 2034WARD industry initiative will harness the global spotlight on sports and fitness in the United States from now through 2034 — a decade that will bring the world’s highest profile sporting events to the U.S. Through this free of cost, community-based program, the Youth Sports Clinic Series will drive local impact by increasing youth sports access and affordability and build healthier, more active and connected communities. Saturday’s clinic, hosted in partnership with the YMCA and supported by TeamSnap, will welcome children ages 7-12 for an immersive, interactive experience playing lacrosse, baseball, and ultimate frisbee. Participants will rotate through the three skill-building stations led by professionally trained instructors, provided by the Premier Lacrosse League, USA Baseball, and USA Ultimate.
By introducing young athletes to multiple sports in a single afternoon, the clinic is designed to spark interest, build confidence, and encourage longer-term participation, especially among children who may not otherwise have access to organized sports opportunities.
“This decade presents a rare and historic opportunity for sports and fitness in the United States,” said Todd Smith, President & CEO of SFIA. “Where the true legacy of this moment will not be measured solely by the success of each global event hosted in our country, but by how many young people become inspired to get in the game. Through our partnership with the YMCA, we are working to ensure that more kids have free access to quality sports experiences that can shape their health and confidence for years to come.”
The YMCA, long recognized for its commitment to youth development and healthy living, serves as a foundational partner in bringing the youth clinics directly into communities.
“At the Villages at Carver Family YMCA, we work with families every day to make sure every child has the opportunity to participate and feel like they belong,” said James Carroll, Executive Director of the Villages at Carver Family YMCA. “It’s part of our commitment across the YMCA of Metro Atlanta and our network of locations to meet families where they are. Here at Carver, this partnership creates new opportunities for kids to try sports they may not have otherwise experienced, and that kind of exposure can change how they see themselves and what they believe is possible.”
The Series will continue across the country as part of SFIA’s broader 2034WARD Campaign to increase sports and fitness participation, expand access, and promote physical vitality nationwide.
Organizations interested in supporting a future Youth Sports Clinic can contact Bonnie McLaughlin at [email protected].
To learn more about the 2034WARD initiative, visit sfia.org/2034ward.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Lisa Futterman
[email protected]
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ABOUT SFIA: The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) is the leading trade association for the sports and fitness industry, representing over 700 brands, manufacturers, retailers, and governing bodies who collectively employ more than 375,000 people and generate $150 billion in domestic sales. With a mission of increasing sports and fitness participation and promoting industry vitality, SFIA provides thought leadership, advocacy, research, and membership services that empower its members and drive industry growth. SFIA’s leading research and comprehensive insights help members make informed decisions, while its advocacy efforts champion physical health and economic impact. To learn more about joining SFIA’s network dedicated to advancing the sports and fitness industry, please visit sfia.org.
About the YMCA of Metro Atlanta: The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. For more than 165 years, the YMCA of Metro Atlanta has been impacting lives and strengthening communities. By providing services and support networks, building bridges between people from all backgrounds and engaging stakeholders at various levels, the Y has maintained its relevance, helping to create stronger, more cohesive communities for all. ymcaatlanta.org