Play Ball! Local Kids Join MLB's 'Wanna Play' Program

Obesity is a serious health concern affecting both children and adolescents at staggering rates in the United States. Today, one-third of American schoolchildren are overweight or obese. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, prevalence of obesity increased from 6.5 percent to 17.0 percent among children ages 6–11. Facing these grim statistics, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and MLB have teamed up to improve the physical fitness of young people by focusing on agility, coordination and balance.  The nine-week “Wanna Play?” program will allow local youth ages 6-12 to become more health-conscious and active while learning the fundamental skills of baseball and softball.    

“Our members really enjoyed being active,” said CEO Brad Holland. “It’s  not just about fun and games, but improving their overall fitness, realizing their full potential, and incorporating movement into their daily lives.”

Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad has been in the Carlsbad community since 1952, providing programs and services to thousands of young people. For more information, call (760) 729-0207, email info@bgccarlsbad.org, or visit bgccarlsbad.org.