Youth Baseball
Cincinnati Reds Winter Camp
Ages 6–15 | 8:30am-1:30pm | Dec 20 & Jan 3 | Fee varies | Circle K Fieldhouse at NexusPark
Cincinnati Reds Winter Camps are back for their 4th year! Over the past 14 years, the Reds have built one of the finest youth camp programs in the country. And we are excited to continue to build on the success with our Winter Camps.
We’ve designed the perfect plan to prepare your young athlete for the upcoming season. Through a progressive curriculum that targets pitching, hitting, fielding or catching, we can help him or her hit the diamond with a solid foundation.
The timing is right. The instruction is proven. The price is affordable. Join us!
Registration: redscamps.leagueapps.com/camps
Youth Baseball League
Columbus Parks & Recreation Department offers a spring youth baseball season for youth ages 4-14. Our mission is to ensure that each participant registered for our program has a safe, fun, and enriching experience with baseball.
We invite you to register your child for one of the following spring division offerings: T-ball (Ages 4-5), Jr Coach Pitch (Ages 5-6), Machine Pitch (Ages 7-8), Minor (Ages 9-10), Major (Ages 11-12), and Senior (Ages 13-14).
2026 Spring Youth Baseball League (Baseball Bits)
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- Division placement is determined by the child’s age on 4/30/26
- All children must be 4 years of age by 4/30/26 (age by is of current program year)
- Games and practices are played at Clifty Park
- Game dates depend on division, but games begin during the month of May
Refund deadline: February 20, 5pm
Registration: December 15 – February 20, 5 p.m.
Early Discount Deadline: February 13 to save $10
| Games Begin | Game Days | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| T-Ball | Saturday AM | $66* |
| Jr Coach Pitch | Saturday AM | $66* |
| Machine Pitch | Tues & Thurs PM | $68* |
| Minor | Tues & Thurs PM | $76* |
| Major | Tues & Thurs PM | $76* |
| Senior | Tues & Thurs PM | $91* |
| *Register by February 13 to save $10! | ||
Cancellations:
- Game Status: To check game status, please check the Remind app and/or check Facebook for updates. Please use the Remind code TBD to receive 2026 Youth Baseball reminders and important information!
- Practice Status: ALL decisions regarding the cancellation of practices are determined by the coach. They will decide whether or not they choose to have practice due to the weather. If you have questions regarding whether or not your child’s practice has been cancelled, please contact their coach. The Parks and Recreation staff will NOT have that information and it will NOT be posted here.
Division Managers:
Don’t hesitate to call your division manager if a problem arises or if you have any baseball program related questions.
| Title | Name | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Programs Manager | Seth Rice | srice@columbus.in.gov | 812-376-2658 |
| Sports Coordinator | Collin Lollar | clollar@columbus.in.gov | 812-375-2741 |
| T-Ball | Vacant | Vacant | Vacant |
| Jr. Coach Pitch | Ross Thomas | rgt@earthlink.net | 317-371-8580 |
| Machine Pitch | Brett Boezeman | boezemanb@bcsc.k12.in.us | 812-350-3746 |
| Minor | Derick Olson | deolson5@yahoo.com | 812-374-7954 |
| Major | Derick Olson | deolson5@yahoo.com | 812-374-7954 |
Current Season Important Information:
- Diamond Layout/Map
- Coaches Meeting Presentation
- Photo Day Order Form (Online Pre-Pay Version)
- Background Check Form (Head Coaches Only! The background forms can be dropped off at Nexus Park, faxed to 812-378-2892 or emailed.)
- T-Ball Rules (PDF)
- Jr Coach Pitch Rules (PDF)
- Machine Pitch Rules (PDF)
- Minor/Major Combo Rules (PDF)
Coaching Resources:
- T-Ball Skills & Drills
- T-Ball Sample Videos
- Jr. Coach Pitch Skills & Drills
- Machine Pitch Skills & Drills
- Minor/Major Combo Skills & Drills
Season Schedules:
- T-Ball
- Jr. Coach Pitch
- Machine Pitch
- Major/Minor
- Picture Schedule (All Divisions)
Tournament Schedule:
- Machine Pitch
- Major/Minor
Youth Basketball
The National Basketball Academy Basketball Camp
Ages 7-15 | 9am-2:30pm | $250 | Circle K Fieldhouse at NexusPark
Two sessions to choose from: June 23-June 27 | July 21-July 25
The National Basketball Academy camps are week long sessions of concentrated basketball training and involve a lot of individual skill development; but for competitive aspects, campers are grouped by age and skill level whenever possible. We will break the game down while enhancing specific skills in all areas needed to be an effective basketball player and have fun. Then, we will take those abilities and apply them in daily competitions. Each participant will be placed on a team so he or she improves as an individual and as a team mate.
June Registration:
- March 6-June 19 Regular Registration for June Camp $250
- June 20-June 28 Late Registration for June Camp $265
- Registration: cbusinparks.com/june-bball
July Registration:
- March 6-June 19 Regular Registration for July Camp $250
- June 20-July 26 Late Registration for July Camp $265
- Registration: cbusinparks.com/july-bball
IUC Prospect Camp
Ages 15-19 | August 2-3 | 9am-2pm | $125 | Circle K Fieldhouse at NexusPark
The IUC Prospect Camp is designed for potential student athletes who are interested in playing collegiate basketball. IUC staff will deliver on court instruction over 2 days. Campers will have the opportunity to perform many of the skills and drills incorporated daily. Additionally, campers will be evaluated by the IUC coaching staff during games as campers compete with and against some of the top prospects in the region.
Registration: May 12-August 1, 5:00pm | https://cbusinparks.com/IUCbball
Youth Fencing
Ages 7+ | Monthly | The REC at NexusPark
En Garde! Are you ready to discover the historic sport of fencing? Join our partners with the Salle de Lutins Fencing Club for a session of fencing. Get an introduction and training in a unique and fun Olympic sport! Students will receive instruction on form, technique, and how to properly engage in a bout. Equipment can be rented for $20 during the class. Fencing sessions run monthly.
November (3-week session): Thursdays November 6-20 | $45
- Ages 7-11 | 6-7pm
- Ages 12+ | 7-8pm
Registration: October 13-November 13, 6pm
December (3-week session): Thursdays, December 4-18 | $45
- 7-11 | 6-7pm
- 12+ | 7-8pm
Registration: November 17-December 11, 6pm
January (4-week session): Thursdays, January 29 | $60
- 7-11| 6-7pm
- 12+ | 7-8pm
Registration: December 15-January 15, 6pm
February (4-week session): Thursdays, February 5-26 | $60
- 7-11| 6-7pm
- 12+ | 7-8pm
Registration: January 19-February 12, 6pm
March (4-week session): Thursdays, March 5-April 2 | $60
- 7-11 | 6-7pm
- 12+ | 7-8pm
Registration: February 16-March 12, 6pm
April (4-week session): Thursdays, April 9-30 | $60
- 7-11 | 6-7pm
- 12+ | 7-8pm
Registration: March 16-April 15, 6pm
Youth Flag Football
2026 Spring Youth Flag Football League
Ages 5-13 | May 23 – June 27 | Dick Wigh Soccer Complex | $75
Recreational flag football for boys and girls ages 5-13. Divisions are determined by age on 4/30/26. All children must be 4 years of age by 1/31/26. The season consists of six games played on Saturday mornings. Single elimination tournament at the conclusion of the regular season for the U11 & U14 divisions.
Registration: March 2 – April 10, 5pm
Refund Deadline: April 10, 5pm
Early Discount Deadline: April 3 to save $10
Cancellations:
- Game Status: To check game status, please check the Remind app and/or check Facebook for updates.
- Practice Status: ALL decisions regarding the cancellation of practices are determined by the coach. He/She will decide whether or not they choose to have practice due to the weather. If you have questions regarding whether or not your child’s practice has been cancelled, please contact their coach. The Parks and Recreation staff will NOT have that information and it will NOT be posted here.
Current Youth Flag Football Season Information:
- Flag Football Facts
- Field Layout
- Youth Flag Football Rules
- Photo Day Order Form (Online Pre-Pay Version)
- Background Check Form (Head Coaches Only! The background check forms can be dropped off at Nexus Park, faxed to 812-378-2892 or emailed to parks@columbus.in.gov)
Season Schedules:
- U8 (PDF)
- U11 (PDF)
- U14 (PDF)
- Picture Day Schedule [All Divisions]
Coaching Resources:
- Skills & Drills (PDF)
- Coaches Meeting Presentation
Standings and Tournament Schedules
Standings updated every Monday. Any discrepancies need reported prior to games the following week.
- U11 (PDF)
- U11 Tournament (PDF)
- U14 (PDF)
- U14 Tournament (PDF)
Fall Youth Flag Football League
Ages 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 12-14 | Games begin week of September 22 | Circle K Fieldhouse at NexusPark | $85
Practices are projected to start the week of September 14. Games are projected to start the week of September 22. Once games start there will be no more scheduled practices. Games will be played on Tuesday or Thursday evenings. All games will take place at the Circle K Fieldhouse. This will be a 6-week season with no post season tournament. Age will be determined as of September 1, 2025 for all divisions.
Register by August 21 and save $10!
Registration: July 27 – September 5, 5pm

Soccer Buddies
Ages 5+ | Sundays | September 7-28 | 1-2pm | $20
Please download the Remind code a9d3f8 for updates on Soccer Buddies.
This four-week clinic is for children and adults with intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities. Players will be paired with non-disabled buddies that will assist the players with taking the field to work on skills such as dribbling, shooting, and passing. Players are encouraged to bring their own equipment (especially if modified) but we will provide for those that need it!
Registration: August 4-Sept 3
Basketball Buddies
Ages 5+ | Sundays | January 25-February 22 | St. Peter’s | $20
Please download the Remind code TBD for updates on Basketball Buddies.
Basketball Buddies is a 4 week program for kids/young adults with special needs who would like to learn fundamental basketball skills and make new friends! Participants are paired with buddies that will assist with skills such as dribbling, shooting, and passing.
Players are encourage to bring their own equipment (especially if modified) but we will provide for those that need it!
- Ages 5-9: 1-2pm
- Ages 10+: 2-3pm
Registration: December 15-January 16, 5 pm
Buddy Baseball
Ages 5+ | Sundays | April 26-May 17 | 1–2:30 pm | Clifty Park | $20
Please download the Remind code TBD for updates on Buddy Baseball.
Baseball Buddies is a 4 week program for kids/young adults with special needs who would like to learn fundamental baseball skills and make new friends! Participants are paired with buddies that will assist with skills such as hitting, fielding, and running the bases.
Players are encourage to bring their own equipment (especially if modified) but we will provide for those that need it!
Registration: March 16-April 17, 5 pm
Youth Kickball
2026 Spring Youth Kickball League
Ages 3-7 | April 10-May 21 | 6-8pm | $70 | Circle K Fieldhouse at NexusPark
This will be a 6-week season with no post season tournament. Practices are projected to start the week of Wednesday, April 2nd. Once games start, there will be no more scheduled practices. Games will be played on Wednesdays, Thursdays or Fridays. Age will be determined as of April 1, 2026 for all divisions.
Divisions Offered:
- 4U Rosters
- 6-8U Rosters
Rosters:
- 4U
- 6-8U
Schedules:
- 4U Game Schedule
- 6-8U Game Schedule
- Practice Schedule
Registration: February 2 – March 13, 5:00 p.m.
Refund Deadline: March 13, 5:00 p.m.
Youth Rugby
Fall Rookie Rugby
Ages 8-12 | September 23 – October 25 | McCullough’s Run Park | $50
Join us this Fall for Rookie Rugby! Rookie Rugby is a non-tackle, Co-Ed flag rugby league where we teach the basics about rugby in a safe and controlled environment. This league is open to all athletes from ages 8-12 who would like to explore rugby and get trained from certified coaches.
If you have an athlete that is currently participating in a fall sport and can only make half the season, it’s still OKAY to join! We will help get your athlete up to speed on basics and make sure they feel comfortable prior to playing in their first game!
In the registration fee, each athlete will receive a team shirt and then on game days, a snack bag after the match.
For any questions, please contact us at columbusrugbyfootballclub@gmail.com.
- Practice: Every Tuesday/Thursday at McCullough’s Run from 5-6pm
- Games: All games will be played at the rugby field at McCullough’s Run every Saturday October 11, October/18, and October 25 at 9:15 a.m.
- Required Equipment: Pair of cleats (soccer, football or rugby cleats) and running shorts. Team t-shirt is included in the cost.
Registration: August 11 – September 19, 5pm
Spring Rookie Rugby
Ages 8-12 | April 14-May 24 | Practices Tuesdays & Thursdays 5-6pm, Games Saturday AM | $50 | McCullough’s Run Park
Rookie Rugby is for children ages 8-12. Rookie Rugby is a non-tackle (flags) co-ed sport where young athletes can experience the fun of rugby in a safe and controlled manner. We teach the athletes about the basics of how to play rugby on both offense and defense. No experience is needed as we will help train your child. Rugby is one of the fastest growing sports in the United States with many high schools, universities and professional teams being formed. Rookie Rugby teams will consist of a minimum of 7 players but no more than 10 players per team. For any questions, please contact Michael Shepherd at columbusrugbyfootballclub@gmail.com.
Practice: Every Tuesday/Thursday at McCullough’s Run from 5-6pm
Games: All games will be played at the rugby field at McCullough’s Run every Saturday May 2-May 23 (4 games). Required Equipment: Pair of cleats (soccer, football or rugby cleats) and running shorts. Team t-shirt is included in the cost.
Registration: December 15-April 10, 5pm

Youth Soccer
Youth Soccer League
Columbus Parks & Recreation Department offers a Spring and Fall youth soccer season for boys and girls ages 4 – High School seniors. Our mission is to ensure that each participant registered for our program has a safe, fun, and enriching experience with soccer. We follow our Youth Sport Code of Conduct and hold participants, coaches and parents alike accountable for following this code of conduct.
We invite you to register your child for one of the following spring and fall division offerings include: Co-Ed Under 5, Co-Ed Under 6, Co-Ed Under 18, Girls Under 8, Boys Under 8, Girls Under 10, Boys Under 10, Girls Under 14, Boys Under 14.
Are you or someone you know, 14 years or older and interested in learning more about becoming a soccer referee?
I’m interested, what do I need to do?
- Be 14 years or older.
- Email Collin Lollar at clollar@columbus.in.gov by March 20th with your name, phone number and best email address and let him know you are interested in becoming a referee!
- All first time referee’s need to show up to an on-field training on March 25th at the Circle K Fieldhouse. In addition, all first time referees must watch 20 short videos ahead of the training. You can access these videos about the rules of soccer here. Be sure to watch the referee signal training at the end!
- Read the below documents before the training on March 25th:
- Referee Manual
- Ref Pay Rates and Dates
- Rules by Division
- Concussion Sheet
- Print the Referee Training Quiz, take the quiz and bring the completed quiz with you on March 25th.
- Print and fill out the Independent Contractor Form and W-9 Form and bring it with you on March 25th or to the first game you work.
- If you are interested in becoming FIFA certified, please visit here.
2026 Spring Youth Soccer League
Ages 3-18 | Games begin March 28 | $68 | Blackwell Park
Recreational soccer for both boys and girls ages 3 – high school seniors. The season consists of six games played on Saturday mornings. Division determined by age on 7/31/25. All children must be 3 by 1/31/26.
Leagues Offered:
- Co-Ed Under 4
- Co-Ed Under 5
- Co-Ed Under 6
- Girls Under 8
- Boys Under 8
- Girls Under 10
- Boys Under 10
- Girls Under 14
- Boys Under 14
- Co-Ed Under 18
Registration Information:
- Registration: December 15-January 23, 5pm
- Refund Deadline: January 23, 5pm
- Early Discount Deadline: January 16 to save $10
Soccer Scribbles (pdf)
Cancellations:
- Game Status: To check game status, please check the Remind app and/or check Facebook for updates. Please use the Remind code TBD to receive 2026 Spring Soccer reminders and important information!
- Practice Status: ALL decisions regarding the cancellation of practices are determined by the coach. He/She will decide whether or not they choose to have practice due to the weather. If you have questions regarding whether or not your child’s practice has been cancelled, please contact their coach. The Parks and Recreation staff will NOT have that information and it will NOT be posted here.
Current Youth Soccer League Season Information:
- FAQ’s
- Field Layout (PDF)
- Coaches Corner
- Background Check Form (Head Coaches Only! The background forms can be dropped off at Nexus Park, faxed to (812) 378-2892 or emailed.)
- Photo Day Order Form (Online Pre-Pay Version)
- Referee Training – If you are 14 years of age or older and would like to referee Parks & Recreation soccer you must attend the orientation on TBD.
Division Managers:
Don’t hesitate to call your division manager if a problem arises or if you have any soccer program related questions.
| Title | Name | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Programs Manager | Seth Rice | 812-376-2658 | srice@columbus.in.gov |
| Sports Coordinator | Collin Lollar | 812-375-2741 | clollar@columbus.in.gov |
| U4 Division | Bill Storkman | 812-343-3597 | bill.r.storkman@cummins.com |
| U5 Division | Bryce Mitchell | 812-344-3133 | brycekm@hotmail.com |
| U6 Division | Dave VanValkenburg | 812-343-2642 | david.j.vanvalkenburg@cummins.com |
| U8 Boys Division | Steve Krebs | 812-447-1086 | krebsfun@comcast.net |
| U8 Girls Division | Tim Larken | 812-371-7796 | timlarken6@gmail.com |
| U10 Boys Division | Evan Adams | 812-603-2691 | evan.adams@gmail.com |
| U10 Girls Division | Aaron Bunch | 812-447-8980 | bunch.aaron11@gmail.com |
| U14 Boys Division | Joe Sawin | 812-374-2148 | foursix4v@yahoo.com |
| U14 Girls Division | Matt Neiswinger | 812-430-9814 | theneiswingers@yahoo.com |
| U18 Division | Bill Storkman | 812-343-3597 | bill.r.storkman@cummins.com |
| Referee Division | Rob Heathcote | 812-344-8437 | rob.a.heathcote@cummins.com |
Schedules (PDF)
- U4 Soccer Schedule
- U5 Soccer Schedule
- U6 Soccer Schedule
- U8 Boys Soccer Schedule
- U8 Girls Soccer Schedule
- U10 Boys Soccer Schedule
- U10 Girls Soccer Schedule
- U14 Boys Soccer Schedule
- U14 Girls Soccer Schedule
- U18 Soccer Schedule
- Picture Day Schedule (All Divisions)
Columbus Youth Soccer Camp
Ages 7–13 | June 2–6 | 9–10:30am | $76 | Dick Wigh Soccer Complex/Blackwell Park
The camp goes over the basics of soccer with additional advanced skills and game play strategy.
Registration: April 7–May 30, 5pm | Early Discount Deadline: May 16 to save $10
Indy Eleven Camp
Ages 5-13 | October 17 | $99 | Circle K Fieldhouse at NexusPark
Indy Eleven presents a unique opportunity for young soccer players to receive training from Indiana’s only professional soccer club. Our mission is to enhance the development of our youth, increase their confidence and their overall understanding and enjoyment of the game of soccer.
Focus: These training sessions will be an intimate training environment and experience concentrating on maximizing touches with the ball.
Methodology: These training sessions will be an intimate training environment concentrating on maximizing touches on the ball and mastering fundamentals that each player will carry throughout their career. The specific skills that small group training provides are unique and integral in the pursuit of soccer excellence, and to simply enjoy the sport.
Registration link- https://indyeleven.sportngin.com/register/form/579912308
Youth Tennis
Our mission is to offer a tennis experience that will encourage all participants to pursue the sport of a lifetime, tennis! See you on the courts! All classes held at Burnett Tennis Courts at Donner Park.
Columbus Parks & Recreation Department offers a variety of adult and youth tennis programs adults for both City of Columbus residents and non-residents. Programs are taught by our USTPA certified Director of Tennis, Mike Burt. All programs are held at the Burnett Tennis Courts (Donner Park) unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own tennis racket.
Please wear tennis shoes and bring a racquet. Racquets to borrow are available upon request. Email: michaelburttennis@gmail.com
Tennis Lesson Rain Policy
Players will have some opportunities to make up canceled classes by attending alternative class sessions of the same level. Please email above for make-up requests.
Registration: April 7-Friday before the class, 5pm
Mike Burt, Director of Tennis
USPTA Certified
812-369-7635
Tiny Tots (4 – 5 yrs)
Designed to enhance your child’s gross motor skills through tennis related games & activities.
- 5/27 – 7/3 | Tues & Thurs | 8:30-9am | $78
- 7/8 – 7/31 | Tues & Thurs | 8:30-9am | $62
- 7/7 – 7/30 | Mon & Wed | 8:30-9am | $62
Little Hitters (6 – 7 yrs)
Designed to stimulate the growth of hand-eye coordination and possibly find the next US OPEN Champion.
- 5/27 – 6/5 | Mon – Thurs | 9am – 10am | $84
- 6/9 – 6/19 | Mon – Thurs | 9am – 10am | $96
- 6/23 – 7/3 | Mon – Thurs | 9am – 10am | $96
- 7/7 – 7/17 | Mon – Thurs | 9am – 10am | $96
- 7/21 – 7/31 | Mon – Thurs | 9am-10am | $90
Future Stars (8 – 11 yrs)
Teaches the basics of tennis and prepares players for match play.
- 5/27 – 6/5 | Mon – Thurs | 10am – 11am | $84
- 6/9 – 6/19 | Mon – Thurs | 10am – 11am | $96
- 6/23 – 7/3 | Mon – Thurs | 10am -11am | $96
- 7/7-7/17 | Mon – Thurs | 10am – 11am | $96
- 7/21-7/31 | Mon – Thurs | 10am – 11am | $90
- 6/3-6/26 | Tues & Thurs | 7pm – 8pm | $96
- 7/8-7/31 | Tues & Thurs | 7pm – 8pm | $96
Challengers (12 – 15 yrs)
Teaches the basics of tennis and starts the basics of match play
- 5/28 – 6/26 | Mon & Wed | 11am – 12pm | $118
- 7/7 – 7/30 | Mon & Wed | 11am – 12pm | $92
Adv. Future Stars/Jr Excellence (10 – 15 yrs)
Designed for players that have participated in several tennis clinics and/or middle school tennis players. Participants will gain match experience. Classes will last 1 hr 15 min, 2 days a week.
- 5/27 – 7/3 | Tues & Thurs | 11am-12:15pm | $144
- 7/8 – 7/31 | Tues & Thurs | 11am-12:15pm | $96
Make Your Own Class!
Parents, if you have a group of kids or just 1, that wants to learn the sport of a lifetime, then call Mike to arrange a private class. (All ages and abilities available). Call Mike Burt at 812-369-7635 to schedule.
• $60/hour for 1 to 3 players
The Columbus City Open
This Tennis Open is available to singles and doubles, both men and women, and for both adults and juniors (including beginners).
Registration deadline: July 11, midnight for Juniors and July 21, midnight for Adults
Adult Tournament: July 25 – July 28
Junior Tournament: July 18 – 19
Registration will occur online. Scan the QR code on the flyer for the signup link. You can also visit USTA.com and search for tournaments by zip code 47201. See our website for information about divisions offered and prices.
USTA Tournament ID:
You will be asked to create an account with USTA if you do not already have one, this is free and very quick and simple to do. Please retain your account number as you will then use that to register for this specific tournament. If you have a USTA account but cannot remember your account number, enter your personal information to create a new account, it will verify that you are currently a member and give you the option to email you your account number.
Youth Volleyball
Nike Volleyball Camp
Co-Ed Ages 10-18 | December 29, December 30-31 | Circle K Fieldhouse at NexusPark
Skill Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
- Beginner: Recommended for girls ages 10-15, and boys ages 10-14 with 0-1 year of experience
- Intermediate: Recommended for girls ages 11-15, and boys ages 11-14 with at least 1-3 years of playing experience or 1+ year of club
experience - Advanced: Recommended for players, ages 14-18, with 2+ years of competitive playing experience, consistently served overhand,
understand rotations, and have a primary position
Lunch: Lunch is not provided.* Please bring a sack lunch each day.
Program: This Serving & Passing clinic is designed to focus on techniques for serving and passing the volleyball. Learn how to be
confident on the court and aggressive from behind the line! This program welcomes beginner to intermediate players and will focus on
various techniques to improve consistency with passing and find the best serve that fits your game. Campers will learn and improve
through drill work, challenging games, demonstrations, and maximum repetitions.
Registration: ussportscamps.com/volleyball/nike/nike-volleyball-camp-columbus-indiana
Chuck Wilt Youth Scholarship Program
Recipients of the Chuck Wilt Youth Scholarship Program can be approved for $200.00 per child per calendar year. If you do not use the full $200.00 by December 31, the balance will go back into the scholarship program. Families can apply each calendar year.
Eligibility Requirements:
To be eligible for the Chuck Wilt Youth Scholarship Program, all families must show proof of residency in Bartholomew County and proof that the child is under their care (School document, Medical or Insurance document, Birth Certificate, Social Security card, Hoosier Healthwise card, most recent 1040 with dependents).
Families will also need to show proof of receiving at least one of the following:
- Social Security Supplemental or Disability Income
- Public assistance through the Division of Family Resources, i.e., Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Food Stamps
- Free lunch assistance through the local schools
- Public assistance through the City of Columbus Housing Authority
- Hoosier Healthwise Card
OR - If a family has foster children in their household, we will need to see foster paperwork.
Guidelines:
- Scholarship Amount – Individuals are eligible for a maximum of $200.00 per child for the calendar year.
- Scholarships will be awarded only as funds are available.
- Children under the age of 18 are eligible for a scholarship.
- Eligible programs – All Parks and Recreation programs. Scholarship does not cover season passes, private instruction, daily admission, equipment rentals and tickets to local events.
- Families residing in Bartholomew County are eligible.
- Scholarships are available for immediate members of a family or foster children who live with the family throughout the year. Scholarships are not available for friends or relatives visiting or staying for a period of time. Scholarships for such individuals should be submitted by the parent/guardian for that family, if applicable.
- Approval of the scholarship is subject to verification of the information provided with the application.
- Applicants will receive notification or approval or denial via phone within 7 business days from the date of the application.
- The Columbus Parks and Recreation Department reserves the right to revoke admission to a facility, program, or activity for misuse or cause.
If you would like to apply, you will need to fill out our scholarship application and email it to parks@columbus.in.gov or return it to NexusPark (2252 25th St – Entrance 2, Columbus, IN 47201) with the eligibility required paperwork above. Call NexusPark (812-376-2680) if you have questions.
Chuck Wilt Youth Scholarship Application (PDF)

