Youth athletics

Parent Association for Youth Sports (PAYS)

Both parents/guardians of participants enrolled in any youth sports league must complete the PAYS program. Children whose parents/ guardians have not completed PAYS will not be allowed to participate in any youth sport programs requiring PAYS certification. The clinic consists of viewing a video from National Alliance of Youth Sports and going through the handbook. This process only needs be once and if you are new to the youth athletic programs. Upon completion, individuals will sign a Parents Code of Ethics and receive the PAYS membership card and handbook.

Easy as 1, 2, 3…

To register for PAYS please visit www.nays.org/paysonline. When taking the PAYS training, make sure to either type in code #1319 or click River Trails Park District in the drop box. You must associate yourself with our chapter to receive the $5 per family fee.

Youth Volunteer Coaches

Teach sports skills and the values of teamwork, fair play, and how to win and lose with grace. Volunteers are instrumental to the success of these programs by acting as a team coach, or coach assistants. If interested, please contact Josh at 847.255.1200. You will be trained according to River Trails and the National Youth Sports Coaches Association. As a thank you for volunteering, a 50% discount on registration fees will be given to the coach’s child (one head coach and one asst. coach per team). Coaches can also join the Fitness Center free of charge for three months and can receive one free pool pass.

National Youth Sports Coaches Association & Certification

National Youth Sports Coaches Association (NYSCA) is a clinical training that certifies you according to NYSCA standards. NYSCA training is required of all River Trails head coaches to assure their dedication and responsibility to youth sports. Coaches are asked to take the training online. Fee is $30 + $5 per each additional sport. The park district will reimburse for the initial $30 and the initial $5.

Friendship Request Policy (for 4-year-old–2nd grade levels)

The River Trails Park District allows only one friendship request per person. This request can be put on the child’s registration form and must be matching. Siblings will automatically be placed on the same team unless otherwise requested. Requests made after the registration deadline may not be honored. River Trails Park District can only accept friendship request for 4 years old through 2nd grade levels of any athletic league. For 3rd grade and above, teams will be balanced by skill level, school, and gender or a draft will be held.

River Trails Park District Jersey–$18.50 (Available only at Weiss Center)