Kearney Parks and Recreation (KPR), in partnership with Smithville Parks and Recreation and Platte City Parks and Recreation, has announced open registration for its Youth Recreation Baseball, Softball, and T-Ball Leagues for the Spring 2026 season. These programs offer inclusive opportunities for children of all skill levels, providing a fun and supportive environment for boys and girls ages 4-14.

All leagues operate under standard Baseball, Softball, and T-Ball rules. The programs rely heavily on volunteer coaches. Interested parents can volunteer by clicking the "Volunteer" tab on the registration site. Volunteer coaches receive free registration for their child (credited for future use after practices start) and have the flexibility to set practice schedules around their availability. Volunteering as a coach is also the best way to guarantee preferred practice days and times for your child.

Scholarships are available for families in need, with complete confidentiality assured. For more information about scholarships, families can contact Ryan Marcotte at 816-903-4730.

Baseball League

The Youth Recreation Baseball League is open to boys ages 7-14. Each team will play six games throughout the season, and teams are assigned through a random computer draw to ensure fairness. The age division for each child is determined by their age as of April 1, 2026. Practices will start the week of April 6, and games begin the week of April 29. Participants will receive a jersey, hat, and an end-of-season medal from KPR, while parents are asked to provide a glove and a recommended helmet.

Softball League

Girls ages 7-14 can join the Youth Recreation Softball League. Like the baseball league, teams are assigned randomly, and each team will play six games per season. Practices begin the week of April 6, with games tentatively starting the week of April 27. KPR will provide a jersey, hat, and medal, and parents supply a glove and suggested helmet. The age division is determined by the child's age on April 1, 2026.

T-Ball League

The T-Ball League welcomes children ages 4-6. All games are scheduled for Friday evenings at Mack Porter Park, with start times at 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM. As with the other leagues, teams are assigned via random computer draw. Practices begin the week of April 6, and games tentatively start the week of April 27. Each child receives a jersey, hat, and medal, while parents provide a glove and recommended helmet.

Registration for all leagues is now open. Parents can sign up online for regular registration between January 2 and March 31, 2026, or opt for late registration from April 1 to April 5, 2026. The full program duration runs from April 6 through June 29, 2026.

The Spring 2026 Youth Recreation Leagues offer a welcoming environment for children to learn teamwork, develop their skills, and make new friends.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.