When children experience playing organized sports, they learn valuable skills while also getting important physical activity. Playing sports can aid in developing hand-eye coordination, self-regulatory skills, and functional movement and strength. Finding a fun and convenient place for parents where kids can play sports is sometimes a challenge. 

Luckily, many locations in the area have great courts, fields, and clubs where your kids can have fun, exercise, and build their stamina and athleticism. Here is our list of the top places where your kids can play sports around Westerville, Ohio. 

Skyhawks Sports Academy

Opening Ceremonies by Mr. 512 is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Skyhawks Sports Academy is a welcoming organization dedicated to providing safe and fun programs where children can learn valuable life skills in a supportive environment. Participating in organized sports builds cooperative learning and problem-solving skills, and teaches respect and good sportsmanship. The programs teach participating youth the basics of the sport while instilling a love for activity and setting the foundation for healthy living and exercise. 

At the Westerville Community Center, Skyhawks Sports Academy offers STEM & Play: Multi-Sports. This choice is best suited for children 6 to 12 years old. The class begins at $79 and combines STEM-based activities with sports, focusing on science, technology, engineering, and math. The classes help children view the world through an inquisitive lens and develop problem-solving skills. Some of the organized sports featured in this program include baseball, flag football, soccer, and volleyball.

Location: Westerville Community Center, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 

Hours: S.T.E.M. and Play for kids 6 to 12 on Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Contact: 1-800-804-3509

Westerville Community Center

The Westerville Parks and Recreation Department works with local organizations to provide children access to youth sports programs. Dedicated to fitness and childhood enrichment, the Westerville Community Center hosts several organized sports to choose from. 

If your child is interested in hockey, consider signing up for the Street Jackets Skills and Drills. The course is sneakers-only and teaches team members skills progressively. Players learn basic hockey skills, from stick control and passing to control and movement. The Jr. Cavs Bantam Basketball team is an option for older players. Rates begin at $95 for fourth through eighth grade boys and girls. Pee Wee basketball for second and third grade children is also an option. The Westerville Sports Leagues have something for every child to enjoy.

Location: 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville.

Hours: The Community Center is open 5:45 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Youth sports program hours vary.

Contact: 614-901-6888 for sports program information.

Highlands Park Aquatic Center 

If your child takes to swimming like a fish to water, consider Highlands Park Aquatic Center as your location of choice. This Westerville Aquatic Center is home to the Otter Swim and Dive Team. The supportive coaching staff encourages their swimmers to be good teammates and role models and to include others in their fun. 

Swim practice is available for children 6 and under to 18, with specific practice times for different age groups. For diving practice, children are divided into two age brackets, 10 and under, and 11 to 18. Participation, skill standards, and uniform rules apply. Team practices begin on Tuesday, May 30, after Memorial Day. 

The Aquatic Center is ideal for the kids to enjoy the warm Westerville sun in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Families can enjoy the speed and body slide tower, zero-entry toddler pool with a simulated rock slide, a lazy river for lounging, and a 25-meter pool with a diving well for the experienced swimmer. Day passes begin at $10 for residents and $20 for non-residents. Season passes for individuals and families are also available. For a complete list of prices or more information on how to sign up for the Otters Swim team, check the websites provided. 

Location: 245 S. Spring Road, Westerville. 

Hours: Seasonal availability. Hours of operation will be available in the Spring of 2023.

Contact: 614-901-7665

Westerville Sports Complex

For many Westerville natives, the Westerville Sports Complex is an easy decision for finding a solid facility where kids can play sports with quality equipment. For soccer aficionados, the sports complex boasts a total of six soccer fields, complete with lines and soccer goals. There is even a soccer sculpture near the fields, making them easier to find and adding to the visual appeal. The complex also features two lighted basketball courts, allowing your little ones a chance to practice their dribbling skills or jump shot any time of day.  

While your children participate in their soccer tournament or enjoy shooting some hops with friends, get your cardio in with a leisurely walk along the path or take your tiny ones to the playground for fun exploring the outdoors and swinging. The Westerville Sports Complex is adjacent to Alum creek, providing public access to fishing. Introduce your child to the unique sport of fishing and try your hand at catching some smallmouth bass together.

Location: 325 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 

Hours: Open 24 hours, daily.

Contact: 614-901-6500

So there you have it. These are Crème de la Crème of Westerville, Ohio’s top locations where your kids can play sports. Participating in competitive sports is a great way for your kids to learn about teamwork and build valuable life skills such as dedication and grit. Moreover, working as a team toward a joint goal can help your children make new friends, build self-esteem and develop other crucial life skills. What do you think of our suggestions? Did we mention something to pique your interest? 

Visit Crème de la Crème of Westerville, Ohio, for your child care and after-school care needs. Our facility and staff are fully equipped to give your child an enriching experience. We have a tennis court, an outdoor basketball court, a soccer field, and a bowling alley. To learn more about our services and meet with our friendly staff, call 614-363-2846.