YMCA offers variety of summer fun for all ages

The school year is almost over, and summer is quickly approaching. What’s next?

The James J. Buquet Jr. Bayouland YMCA is accepting applications for its many programs and activities.

Bayouland YMCA Membership and Marketing Director Mary Davis said May is traditionally “THE registration month” for summer activities. Right now, parents can register their children for youth basketball, swim lessons and summer soccer.

Unfortunately, the deadline for summer camp and youth baseball and softball has passed; the baseball and softball seasons started April 30, and camp begins May 28.

But there are plenty of other options still available, she said.

Each summer, registration at the YMCA triples as working parents search for supervised options for their children. It’s an added bonus that the center offers lots of fun.

“We are the only YMCA in the Tri-parish area. We even get children from St. Mary’s and Lafourche parishes,” Davis said.

South Terrebonne High School teacher Blaise Pellegrin is running this year’s summer camp. He said campers will engage in several stimulating activities designed to teach the children how to work well with others.

On a daily basis, the students play games like basketball, softball and soccer. They also take part in art and craft classes, Davis said. “The children enjoy playing basketball and all those other activities, but they await the times in which they can get into the pool. That’s why I am glad that [the YMCA has] an indoor pool because the kids never miss their pool times because of the weather,” she added.

Aside from the day camp and summer sports, Michelle Lane teaches dance classes for youths, including jazz, tap, ballet and hip-hop, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 a.m. to 6:45 a.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.

Other programs of interest geared toward older adults include the 9 a.m. line dancing class that is taught on Tuesday, which is taught by Corey Richard.

According to Angela Faulk, one of the YMCA administrators, a number of members participate in the program as a way to exercise while learning a fun dance. The day campers also participate in a line dancing class.

The YMCA also offers weight training and aerobic classes Monday through Saturday to members. Outside residents can join in desired classes for a mere $5 per class.

Davis said as the summer months approach and more adults have a little more free time, membership tends to increase. “There are a number of activities… it’s a great way to meet people and get in shape,” she said.

And throughout the summer, the YMCA will continue to offer its monthly Kids Night Out festivities. A slumber party for youngsters ages 6-12, the fun includes swimming, movies, games, late night snacks and breakfast.

For more information on membership at the YMCA, contact Mary Davis at (985) 873-9622.