With local children preparing to transition from the gridiron to the hardwood, the YMCA of Selma-Dallas County is preparing to start up its annual youth basketball league.

The YMCA is currently holding registration for youth basketball from now until Dec. 3 for ages first through sixth grade.

Kasey Burton, program and fitness director at the YMCA of Selma-Dallas County, said youth basketball not only helps younger children learn the game, it also teaches them a number of life lessons.

“Getting them involved in sports at this young an age teaches them discipline. You have to be responsible in sports and practice and pay attention. It kind of overall helps them focus,” Burton said. “It teaches them a lot of developmental skills. To me, it also teaches them how to socially interact with other kids as well.”

The registration fees are $35 for members and $45 for non-members, with registration ending on Dec. 3.

Late registration will be allowed only if space is available with a $10 late fee, but Burton stressed it will be better if children register by Dec. 3.

Once registered, detailed evaluations will be held at 5:30 p.m. for grades 1 and 2, at 6:15 p.m. for grades 3 and 4, and at 7 p.m. for grades 5 and 6.

Burton said games will typically be played on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the YMCA gymnasium with children usually playing two games a week for six to eight weeks.

However, if there are more teams formed than anticipated, some games may be scheduled on Monday or Saturday mornings as well.

Burton said around 100 children participated last year in the program, and the YMCA is also looking for volunteers and coaches for teams.

“We’re always looking for volunteers, volunteer coaches,” Burton said. “They can come here and leave their name and number, or they can speak with me. This year, all the coaches and volunteers are going through background checks, so that way the parents can be a little bit more secure about who their kids are around. All volunteers will go through a background-check process.”

For more information on youth basketball registration or about volunteering, contact the YMCA at 874-9622.