Intro to Sports
Building Tomorrow’s Champions, Starting with the foundations!
The National Sports Center has created an Intro to Sports development program tailored towards young athletes looking to develop fundamental skills in a variety of different sports. Click on the tabs below for more information on each individual sport! To see all 2024 Intro to Sports schedules and times, click below!
Program Features
- 8 week sessions!
- Low participant to instructor ratio
- Each participant receives a t-shirt/jersey
- Experienced Coaching Staff
Baseball
Levels Available: Intro I & Intro II
Don’t let this intro opportunity slide by! Sign your child up for Intro to Baseball, and let them step onto the field with confidence, joy, and a love for the game. Their journey from rookies to champions starts here! Enroll now and let your child’s baseball adventure begin!
Levels Available
Intended for first time baseball players with no experience; recommended for ages 4-6.
Intro II:
Intended for players with little experience, players who have completed Intro I, and recommended for ages 7-9.
Description & Features
Intro to Baseball is a progressive development system for young athletes who are interested in the sport of Baseball. There are two levels within the Intro to Baseball Program: Intro I (4-6 yrs old) and Intro II (7-9 yrs old). The primary objective is to allow each athlete to build important fundamental skills throughout each level in order to propel them into the sport of Baseball.
Erik Lovadahl, a former professional pitcher who is now director of the MYAS Gopher State Pitching Camp and director of the Minnesota Twins Youth Training Camps, has coaching staff who leads young players through the fundamentals of the game. These basic skills include throwing, hitting, and fielding. This is great for skill development, hand-eye coordination, and just plain having fun.
The Lovdahl Pitching Academy and staff on the Minnesota Twins Youth Training Academy will be instructing.
Lead instructor: Matt Held. Matt, an Iowa native, had the opportunity to play in a great high school baseball system where him and his team made it to two 4A State tournament appearances. Matt then took his knowledge and acquired skills to the collegiate level. An injury stopped his career short, but not his passion for the game. Now, Matt has been the lead youth instructor with the Minnesota Twins Training Academy since 2014.
” The opportunity to help the younger generations by teaching them skills I learned throughout my career, that are applicable to youth baseball has been an amazing one, and I plan to do so for years to come.” – Matt Held
- Each participant will receive a t-shirt
- Low participant to instructor ratio
Equipment Needed
- Players should bring their own glove
- Bats, baseballs, and helmets will be provided
Cost
Next Session Schedules and Times
- Summer I: May 9th – June 27th, 2024. Thursdays 5:00-6:00 pm
- Summer II: August 1st – September 19th, 2024. Thursdays 5:00-6:00 pm
- Fall: September 26th – November 14th, 2024. Thursdays 6:00-7:00 pm
- Winter 2025: Coming Soon
Basketball
Don’t miss this amazing opportunity! Enroll your child in Intro to Basketball and let them embark on a journey filled with excitement, confidence, and a deep appreciation for the game. Their path to championships begins here! Sign up today and witness your child’s basketball adventure take off!
Levels Available
Intro I:
Intended for first time players with no experience; ages 4-6.
Intro II:
Intended for players with little experience, players who have completed Intro I, and ages 7-9.
Description & Features
- Intro to Basketball is a progressive development system for young athletes who are interested in the sport of basketball. There are two levels within the Intro to Basketball Program: Intro I and Intro II. The primary objective is to allow each athlete to build important fundamental skills throughout each level in order to propel them into the sport of basketball.
- Intro to Basketball introduces young players to the basic fundamental skills of the sport.
- All levels incorporate basketball skills with motor, physical, mental and social skills in a positive environment. This program also builds self esteem, confidence, promotes sportsmanship and fair play while instilling a love and passion for the game of basketball.
- Features
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- 8 sessions
- Professional instruction
- Low player to instructor ratio
- Proven teaching methods for best results at younger ages
- Receive an Intro to Basketball T-Shirt
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Equipment Needed
- Tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes recommended.
- No other equipment needed, basketballs will be provided
Cost
Next Session Schedules and Times
- Summer I: May 7th – June 25th, 2024. Tuesdays 6:00-7:00 pm
- Summer II: July 30th – September 17th, 2024. Tuesdays 6:00-7:00 pm
- Fall: No 2024 fall basketball
- Winter 2025: Coming Soon
Cheerleading
Levels Available: Intro I & II
Be the next cheerleading star with our Intro to Cheerleading classes! This exciting new program at the National Sports Center teaches cheerleading fundamentals to kids ages 4-9.Our intro classes help your aspiring cheerleader gain the skills and confidence to shine. We focus on safety and fun in a supportive environment.
Levels Available
Intro I: Intended for first time participants with little/no experience; recommended for ages 4-6.
Intro II: Intended for participants with little experience, players who have completed Intro I, and recommended for ages 7-9.
Description and Features
Be the next cheerleading star with our Intro to Cheerleading classes! This exciting new program at the National Sports Center teaches cheerleading fundamentals to kids ages 4-9. Our intro classes help your aspiring cheerleader gain the skills and confidence to shine. We focus on safety and fun in a supportive environment. Kids will improve flexibility, balance, and motion skills while making new friends. Finish the session by showing off new abilities at a parent showcase. If your kid dreams of leading crowd cheers and nailing those aerial stunts, our Intro to Cheerleading is the perfect place to start.
Curriculum:
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- Learn cheer motions, jumps, stunting, basic tumbling, and dance
- Build coordination, confidence, and teamwork
Equipment Needed
No equipment is required for intro to cheerleading. Participants should wear comfortable athletic clothes and shoes and bring a water bottle.
Cost
$110 per participant
Next Session Schedules and Time
- Summer I: May 9th – June 27th, 2024. Thursdays 5:00-6:00 pm
- Summer II: July 29th – September 16th, 2024. Mondays 5:00-6:00 pm
- Fall: September 23rd – November 12th, Mondays 5:00-6:00 pm
- Winter 2025: Coming Soon
Flag Football
Don’t miss this explosive opportunity! Enroll your child in “Intro to Flag Football” and watch them embark on an adventure bursting with excitement, self-belief, and an unquenchable love for the game. The journey to football glory commences here! Sign up today and see your child’s athletic passion ignite like never before!
Levels Available
Intended for first time players with no experience; ages 5-7.
Intro II:
Intended for players with little experience, players who have completed Intro I, and ages 8-10.
Description and Features
Intro to Flag Football is a progressive development system for young athletes who are interested in the sport of Flag Football. There are two levels within the Program: Intro I and Intro II. The primary objective is to allow each athlete to build important fundamental skills throughout each level in order to propel them into the sport of Flag Football.
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- Each participant will receive a t-shirt
- Low participant to instructor ratio
Equipment Needed
- Tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes recommended
- No other equipment needed, flags will be provided.
Cost
Next Session Schedules and Times
- Summer II: No summer 2 flag football
- Fall: September 26th – November 14th, 2024. Thursdays 5:00-6:00 pm
- Winter 2025: Coming Soon
Ice Hockey
Get ready to lace up your child’s first sporting adventure with our “Intro to Hockey” clinic, custom-tailored for young enthusiasts aged 4 to 9! It’s time to unleash your child’s inner ice warrior and watch them glide into the thrilling world of hockey.
Levels Available (4+ years old)
Intended for first-time hockey players who have gone through some skating skills in the past.
Intro II:
Intended for players with little experience in hockey.
Intro III:
Intended for players who have some general experience in hockey.
Description & Features
Intro to Hockey is a progressive development system for young athletes who are interested in the sport of hockey. There are three levels within the Intro to Hockey Program: Intro I, II, and III. The primary objective is to allow each athlete to build important fundamental skills throughout each level in order to propel them into the sport of hockey. Intro to Hockey introduces young players to the basic fundamental skills of hockey including skating, puck control, passing, and everything in between! All levels incorporate hockey skills with motor, physical, mental and social skills in a positive environment. This program also builds self esteem, confidence, promotes sportsmanship and fair play while instilling a love and passion for the game of hockey.
Curriculum:
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- Intro 1 (intended for first-time hockey players who have gone through some skating skills in the past) *Must be able to fall down and get up on their own
- Athletic Skills Development: Stand up, Fall, March, Glide, Dip, Snowplow Stop, Forward Swizzles, Glide Turns
- Puck Skills Development: Proper Stick Placement, Stationary Puck Handling
- Intro II (intended for players with little experience in hockey) *Hockey I Prerequisite or being able to skate the width of the rink without problems
- Athletic Skills Development: Forward Swizzles, Forward Hockey Shuffle, Forward Slalom, 1 Foot Glide, Snowplow Stop (both feet), Forward C Cuts, Forward Scooter Pushes, Forward Crossovers, Forward Stride
- Puck Skills Development: Stationary Puck Handling, Open Ice Carry, Forehand Sweep Pass, Receiving a Pass, Forehand Sweep Shot
- Intro 1 (intended for first-time hockey players who have gone through some skating skills in the past) *Must be able to fall down and get up on their own
- Intro III (intended for players who have some general experience in hockey) * Prerequisite Hockey I & II or forward skating with proficiency
- Athletic Skills Development: Backward Swizzles, Backward Hockey Shuffle, Backward Slalom, Backward 1-foot Glide, Hockey Stop, Backward C Cuts, Backward Alternating C Cuts, Power Turn
Puck Skills Development: Backhand Sweep Pass, Receiving a Backhand Sweep Pass, Open Ice Carry in a Circle, Backhand Sweep Shot
Equipment Needed
- Helmet required (with full facemask recommended)
- Mouth guard
- Shoulder pads
- Elbow pads
- Hockey gloves or other gloves required
- Hockey pants/breezers or long pants
- Shin pads
- Hockey socks or sweat pants to cover shin pads
- Skates
- Hockey stick
- Jersey will be provided for all participants
Cost
Intro II and III: $330/player
Next Session Schedules and Times
- Summer I: May 8th – June 26th, 2024. Wednesdays, 5:40-6:40 pm
- Summer II: July 31st – September 18th, 2024. Wednesdays 5:40-6:40 pm
- Fall: October 2nd – November 20th, 2024. Wednesdays 5:40-6:40 pm
- Winter 2025: Coming Soon
Soccer
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to introduce your child to the world of soccer. Sign up for our ‘Intro to Soccer’ clinic today, and watch your young athlete kickstart their soccer journey with enthusiasm, skill, and an enduring love for the game. Join us for a fantastic soccer adventure, where learning and fun go hand in hand! Enroll now and get ready to cheer on your soccer star!
Levels Available
Intro I:
Intended for first time players with no experience; ages 2-3.
Intro II:
Intended for players with little experience, players who have completed Intro I, and ages 4-5.
Intro III:
Intended for players who have little to some general experience, completed Intro I & II, and ages 6-8.
Intro IV:
Intended for players who have some experience, recommended for ges 8-10.
Intro V:
(Advanced) Intended for players who have experience, recommended for ages 10-12.
Description & Features
- Intro to Soccer is a progressive development system for 2-12 year old young athletes who are interested in the sport of soccer. There are five levels within the Intro to Soccer Program. The primary objective is to allow each athlete to build important fundamental skills throughout each level in order to propel them into the sport of soccer.
- Intro to Soccer introduces young players to the basic fundamental skills of soccer such as passing, shooting, receiving the ball, and running with the ball to learn the concept of team play.
- All levels incorporate soccer skills with motor, physical, mental and social skills in a positive environment. This program also builds self esteem, confidence, promotes sportsmanship and fair play while instilling a love and passion for the game of soccer.
- Cirriculum:
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- Intro 1
- Skills Development: Dribbling, Moving with the ball, Short passes
- Athletic Development:Running, Jumping, Hopping, Twisting, Turning
Stopping, Starting, Changing Pace, Running to open space - Primary Objective:Learning about soccer in a positive and fun environment with stations, games, and activities.
- Intro 2
- Skills Development: Dribbling, Passing, Change of Direction
- Athletic Development: Agility & Footwork,Balance, Coordination, & Flexibility
- Primary Objective: Developing a confident athlete within the sport of Soccer. Understanding of basic game play and strategy.
- Intro 3
- Skills Development: Shooting, Defending, Attacking, Passing
- Athletic Development: Agility & Footwork, Complex Coordination, Directional Speed
- Primary Objective:Introducing strategic components of the game. Encouraging growth with small sided and free play opportunities.
- Intro 4
- Skills Development: Shooting, Defending, Attacking, Passing,Foot skills, Juggling
- Athletic Development: Agility & Footwork, Complex Coordination, Direction Speed
- Primary Objective: Introducing strategic components of the game including positioning. Encouraging growth with small sided and free play opportunities.
- Intro 5
- Skills Development: Shooting, Defending, Attacking, Passing, Foot skills, Juggling
- Athletic Development: Agility & Footwork, Complex Coordination, Direction Speed
- Primary Objective: Introducing strategic components of the game including positioning and introduction of offsides. Encouraging growth with small sided and free play opportunities.
- Intro 1
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Equipment Needed
- Soccer shoes, tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes recommended
- Shin guards recommended for Intro to Soccer III; no equipment required for Intro to Soccer I and II
Cost
Next Session Schedules and Times
Summer II
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- Level I: July 31st – September 18th, 2024. Wednesdays 6:00-6:30 pm
- Level II: July 31st – September 18th, 2024. Wednesdays, 5:00-5:45 pm
- Level III: July 31st – September 18th, 2024. Wednesdays, 6:00-6:50 pm
- Level IV: August 1st – September 19th, 2024. Thursdays, 5:00-6:00 pm
- Level V: August 1st – September 19th, 2024. Thursdays, 6:00-7:00 pm.
Fall
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- Level I: September 25th – November 13th, 2024. Wednesdays 7:00-7:30 pm
- Level II: September 25th – November 13th, 2024. Wednesdays 6:00-6:45 pm
- Level III: September 25th – November 13th, 2024. Wednesdays 7:00-7:50 pm
- Level IV: September 26th – November 14th, 2024. Thursdays 6:00-7:00 pm
- Level V: September 26th – November 14th, 2024. Thursdays 6:00-7:00 pm
- Winter 2025: Coming Soon
Volleyball
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to introduce your child to the world of volleyball. Sign up for our ‘Intro to Volleyball’ clinic today, and watch your young athlete dive into volleyball with enthusiasm, skill, and a lasting love for the game.
Levels Available
Intended for first time players with no experience; ages 4-6.
Intro II:
Intended for players with little experience, players who have completed Intro I, and ages 7-9.
Description & Features
The NSC Intro to Volleyball program is designed for boys and girls ages 4-9 who have little to no volleyball experience and want to be introduced to the basics of the sport. Intro to Volleyball is a progressive development system for young athletes who are interested in the sport of volleyball. There are two levels within the Intro to Volleyball Program: Intro I and Intro II. The primary objective is to allow each athlete to build important fundamental skills throughout each level in order to propel them into the sport of volleyball. Intro to Volleyball introduces young players to the basic fundamental skills of the sport. All levels incorporate volleyball skills with motor, physical, mental and social skills in a positive environment. This program also builds self esteem, confidence, promotes sportsmanship and fair play while instilling a love and passion for the game of volleyball.
Equipment Needed
- Tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes recommended
- No other equipment needed, volleyballs will be provided
Cost
Next Session Schedules and Times
2025 Volleyball schedule coming soon
Intro to Sports Day
Sunday, June 9, 2024
Bring your kids to the National Sports Center’s ‘Intro to Sports Day’ and set them on a path to a healthier and more active lifestyle. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to ignite their love for sports! Join us now for a day of fun and fitness that your children will cherish.
Time and Location
2:00-3:00 PM in the Sports Expo Center
Details
We know your littles are excited for new activities, and we have the perfect way to keep them occupied! Check out NSC’s Intro to Sports programs tailored to young athletes looking to learn something new and have fun.
Our program is designed to teach children new skills in a fun and safe environment. Our coaches will also encourage teamwork and good sportsmanship, while reinforcing a sense of accomplishment that comes with learning something new.
Intro to Sports Day on June 9th is Free. We also have registration open for Summer sports sessions so learn more about what’s available.
Equipment Needed
- Tennis Shoes
- All other equipment is provided
Registration
- No registration needed
Ages
3-9 Years Old
Cost
Free
Sports to Sample
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Cheerleading
- Flag Football
- Soccer
- Volleyball
FAQs for Beginners
How do I register?
- Registration for all Intro Programs is through our NSC Event HQ website.
- For information on how to register, please visit your specific intro program website, and find the step by step process under the Registration System tab.
When will I receive session updates?
Participants will receive an email one week prior to the first day of the program with all the information needed. If you have any questions prior to then, please feel free to reach out to the specific program director.
Are there pre-requisites for each level?
- All Intro Programs are designed based on age level.
- For any questions regarding which level to register for, please feel free to reach out to the specific program director.
Can parents participate in class / be on the field or court?
Our intro to sport programs are led by our experienced and knowledgeable coaching staff. We ask that parents do not participate on the field/court with the participants during class (warming up before class is fine is space is available). IF your child requires extra assistance during class, please contact the program director prior to the class starting to work out a plan with the coaching staff.
Will I be notified for weather cancellations?
- Indoor Sports/Practices: Indoor Practices will not be canceled due to inclement weather.
- Outdoor Practices: Participants will be notified 3-4 hours prior to the start of practice if inclement weather cancels practice for that day.
Program Fee
Program Fee includes a jersey, 8 practices, and a fun and inviting atmosphere to learn.
*Financial scholarships available: please contact the program director for more information and to request the financial scholarship application form.
Refund Policy
– 30-10 days prior to start of class – 75% refund
– 9 days prior – 50% refund
– After session begins: No Refunds
– Injuries = full refund with medical note (dependent on # of sessions attended)
Program Cancelation Policy
The following policy will be enacted IF a program hosted by the National Sports Center MUST be canceled by the directives of the State of Minnesota or the Minnesota Department of Health. Please know that our top priority on making decisions moving forward will be the safety and health of our participants, coaches, employees, and spectators.
Participants will receive a refund for your program entry. Participant registration refunds will be processed at 100% of the registration total.
*Please note that if a participant elects to drop prior to the program, the above voucher policy will be in effect. This includes participants making their own decision to withdraw prior to the potential cancellation.
If a customer (club, *team, individual) is required to quarantine due to illness or exposure to the COVID-19 virus, and are unable to participate for this reason, a refund will be not be issued unless done within the parameters of the existing policy. The event director will reschedule, if possible. Reschedules are not guaranteed to be on the same day or time as originally scheduled.
*Roster adjustments may be allowed per event directors discretion.
Surcharge Fee
The National Sports Center has instituted a 2% surcharge on all submitted card payments to help cover a portion of the processing fees assessed to the NSC by the card processing companies. Customers can avoid the fee by registering online and paying with an e-check.
Interested in Coaching?
By becoming a coach for children aged 4 to 9 in their first sports experience, you’re not just teaching sports; you’re shaping their futures. Join this incredible adventure, where the rewards are immeasurable, and the impact is everlasting. Enrich young lives and inspire the next generation of athletes.
How to Become an NSC Coach
To Apply – please send an email to Ellen Jones – ejones@nscsports.org with the program(s) you are interested in with your resume.
We look forward to hearing from you!