Sioux Falls, S.D. (July 22, 2010) – The Sioux Falls Skyforce and Sioux Falls Family YMCA announced today that they have joined forces to form a new youth basketball league. The YFORCE Basketball League will be operated by the SF Family YMCA and will include involvement from the Skyforce organization.

“The Sioux Falls Family YMCA is extremely excited to partner with the Sioux Falls Skyforce to bring an improved basketball league to our area youth,” said SF Family YMCA CEO Mike Gulick. “The league will be the product of two entities that have demonstrated their passion for the sport of basketball and the desire to positively improve not only the skills of these kids, but also their character and the character of the coaches, parents and fans of the sport.”

All K-8th grade players in the newly formed league will receive the following benefits: official membership card, one free ticket to a Skyforce regular season home game, free admission to Skyforce intrasquad scrimmage, youth YFORCE Basketball League game jersey and basketball clinic conducted by Skyforce coaches and players including a skills competition. Additionally, players in 4th-8th grade will have the opportunity to play a game on the Skyforce home court at the Sioux Falls Arena. Skyforce head coach Tony Fritz will also conduct two preseason coaching clinics for all coaches in the league.

“Many of our players and staff members grew up playing YMCA basketball so it is exciting for us to help enhance the current players’ experiences,” said Skyforce owner/president Mike Heineman. “Y basketball has always been a strong brand and program and we appreciate the opportunity to partner with them.”

For more information or to sign up your child for the YFORCE Basketball League contact SF Family YMCA Director of Program Services Peggy Van Alyne at (605) 336-3190 ext. 212 or pvanalyne@siouxfallsymca.org. Fees and other league information will be posted on the SF Family YMCA website (siouxfallsymca.org) after Monday, July 26.