The Rheems Athletic Association's mission is to support youth sports programs, but the benefits of the nonprofit go much deeper.

"We're trying to create a place for children and youth to be able to participate in athletics; be safe; have fun; and have something to do that ultimately builds teamwork, resilience and confidence," said Jon Norman, president of the group. "All the things kids do in sports are the things that translate to real life: communication, how to work together and especially resilience. Sometimes in life, you lose. How can you handle that? And on the other side, how can you handle success gracefully?"

The association has been around for decades, and it offers sports programs for children from kindergarten through 12th grade. Sports include soccer, softball, volleyball, field hockey, rugby and lacrosse.

Norman estimates that about 500 youths participate in association programs, and players come from across the county. Soccer and softball are the most popular sports in the organization.

"This organization is run 100% by volunteers," said Norman, who noted that his three children have all participated in the programs offered by the Rheems Athletic Association. "Every sport could use help from volunteers. Every sport could use some extra coaching and field help. Anybody who has a sport they like and care about should reach out to us and let us know."

Along with volunteers for specific sports, the organization also relies on sponsorships for teams and donations, which cover the cost of insurance as well as maintenance of fields and equipment.

"We do our best to keep our costs as low as possible for our families who participate," Norman said. "We're not looking to make money. We are trying to cover the cost of operating these programs."

He emphasized that any youth who wants to participate in a sport should not let financial barriers get in the way.

"We have some financial help if necessary for any kids who want to play," he stated. "We want to find a way to get them to play sports, and we'll get you set up. Just reach out to us."

The organization practices on fields and courts throughout the area, Norman said, adding, "Every piece of grass, every turf - we find it, and we will use it."

The Rheems Athletic Association has a 10-member board, and each sport is led by a commissioner.

"We're a team," Norman said. "We're all a group of folks that care a ton about this, and we all work together well."

He also noted that the Rheems Athletic Association complements other sports programs in the area.

"We don't do sports like wrestling, football or cheerleading, but we work together with the Etown Bears Club, who provides those sports," he said.

Joining a sport through the Rheems Athletic Association provides a chance to learn new skills, have fun and gain some playing experience before students get to high school, Norman remarked. But above all, the organization's vision is to help youths develop character through participation in sports.

"Our focus is youth sports, but our goal is for the kids to safely have fun and to grow to become good humans who contribute to society," Norman said. "We want to help kids make friends, boost their self-confidence and learn to be part of a team."

For more information on the Rheems Athletic Association, visit http://www.rheemsaa.org or email president@rheemsaa.org.