The MPRB Athletics Department provides positive recreation experiences for Minneapolis youth ages 9-18. These experiences help our youth develop new physical and social skills in a fun, participatory and safe environment under the guidance of knowledgeable and supportive coaches. In this way Youth Athletic programs contribute to the individual’s physical, social, emotional, cultural and educational growth and development.

Registration Information:

1. How do I register?
2. What is included in the program fee?
   • Typically our sports registration fees cover all or part of the uniform cost and/or equipment supplies and upgrades. We do not provide personal items like footwear, shin guards, or gloves
3. Will I need to purchase additional equipment in order for my child to participate?
   • Equipment needs vary by sport and/or Recreation Center. Please check with your Recreation Center prior to registration. 
4. What if I can't afford the program fee?
   • Minneapolis residents who cannot afford instructional fees because of economic need may apply for fee assistance. Prior to registering contact your Recreation Center and ask to speak with someone regarding fee assistance. 
5. How is my child's age division determined?
   • By pre-established age guidelines are set by the MPRB Athletic Department. Age verification in the form of a birth certificate, baptismal certificate, immunization card, certification from school administration, etc. is required for participation. 
6. Are the leagues inclusive for children with disabilities?
   • YES! All of our programs are open to inclusion. Every registrant is entitled to an assessment to determine the best inclusion supports. The family of the participant is the most valuable resource in planning. If you or someone you know has a disability and is interested in learning more on inclusion and how to access MPRB programs, please contact Sarah Herlofsky sherlofskyi@minneapolisparks.org / 612.230.6478.
7. My child does not have sports experience; can they still participate?
   • You do not need experience in any of our youth sports leagues. 

Practice and Games:

1. When is my child's practice?
   • Please plan on 1-2 practices a week depending on gym and field availability. 
2. How many games will my child play?
   • On average, the team will play games 1 – 3 times per week, for a total of 7-12 games per season.
3. Where will my child practice and play games?
   • Practices will take place at your Recreation Center or at a nearby field/court/rink. The majority of games will be played within the city limits of Minneapolis. 
4. How will I receive information about practices and games?
   • Information about practices and games will come from your Recreation Center and coach. Games schedules can be also be viewed online at Team Side line
5. What time are games played?
   • Saturday morning games will be played between 9:00am and 5:00pm. Weeknight games will be scheduled between 6:00pm and 8:30pm. 
6. How will I know if a practice or game is cancelled?
   • Practice cancellation information will be provided by your Recreation Center.
   • Please look at specific sports bulletins for weather cancellation procedures.

• Can my child wear jewelry, head decoration, or other headwear?
  • For the player’s safety, all –layers must remove all jewelry during games and practices including: rings, watches, bracelets, (including friendship), earrings of any kind (including starters), chains or necklaces. Any player who fails to remove his or her jewelry may not participate until it is removed. Please note: hard items worn on the head such as beads, barrettes and bobby pins are prohibited. 
    
    
  The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board Exceptions:
• For medical or cosmetic reasons – In the event a participant is required by a licensed medical physician to cover his/her head with a covering or wrap, a physician’s statement is required before the MPRB can approve a covering or wrap which is not abrasive, hard or dangerous to any other player and which is attached in such a way it is highly unlikely that it will come off during play.
• For religious reasons – In the event there is documented evidence provided to the MPRB that a participant may not expose his/her uncovered head, the MPRB may approve a covering or wrap which is not abrasive, hard or dangerous to any other player and which is attached in such a way it is highly unlikely it will come off during play.
   

Coaching:

1. Who is my child's coach?
   • Youth Sports teams are coached by volunteer coaches. Coaches are certified by the MPRB. All coaches and assistant coaches are required to pass a comprehensive Background Check and are expected to adhere to the MPRB Coaches Code of Ethics.  
2. What if I witness a coach exhibiting bad sportsmanship or violating the Code of Ethics?
   • If a situation arises where a coach violates the Code of Ethics an incident report may be completed. Please work with your Recreation Supervisor to complete the report. The report will be processed by the Recreation Supervisor. Discipline will vary dependent on circumstances and could include probation, removal or other measures. Infractions will carry over from sport to sport and will be kept on file. 
3. Can I coach my child's team?
   • Yes! You will be required to complete the MPRB Coaches Certification which includes sports specific rules training, concussion management training, and a Background Check. More information about coaching can be found here: 
     Coaches Corner

MPRB League Directors reserve the right to make additions and/or changes for the betterment of the program.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is an Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. In accordance with the requirements of Title II with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), the MPRB will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability in its services, programs or activities.