Start Smart

2026 1st and 2nd Grade Start Smart Basketball

Early Bird Registration: October 6 - November 17, 2025
Late Registration: November 18-24, 2025
Age: Grades 1 & 2
Cost: $60             
Game Time: Saturday mornings beginning January 10, 2026

Start Smart Basketball is a developmentally appropriate introductory basketball program for children. New this winter season, Pelham Parks and Rec will be putting their own spin on the Start Smart program to better prepare our 1st/2nd grade basketball players for future league play, beginning in 3rd grade! The program prepares children for organized basketball in a fun, less-intense environment, and also prepares their parents for organized basketball without the heat of competition or the fear of getting hurt. Age-appropriate equipment will be used in teaching dribbling/ball handling, passing/catching, shooting, and running/agility, while offering a condensed taste of in-game situations, primarily focusing on learning fundamentals and having fun being introduced to the game.

There will be an introductory parent meeting for registered participants on Monday or Tuesday, January 5 or 6 at 5:30pm at the Pelham Recreation Center. A specific date will be chosen and communicated soon. At this meeting, parents and players will also meet and connect with their head coach. All information and equipment will be passed out at this meeting. If you are interested in being a head coach, please put in a coach application!

SPACE IS LIMITED!

In-person and online registration will open on October 6, 2025.

For more information, email Charlie Sanders or email Jared Thornton, Recreation Coordinators - Athletics.

2026 Start Smart Soccer

Day: Monday
Dates: May 4 - June 22
Cost: $60
Time: 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Age: 3 - 5 years-old 
Location: Pelham Rec Center Gym

Want to learn more about the fundamentals of soccer? This beginner 6-week program prepares children for organized soccer in a fun, non-threatening environment.  Start Smart Soccer prepares children and their parents for organized soccer without the threat of competition or the fear of getting hurt.

There will be an introductory parent meeting for registered participants at the Pelham Recreation Center before the start of the program.  All information and equipment will be passed out at this meeting.

Space is limited.

In person and online registration 

For more information, email Will Mayhall.