The Gleason Family YMCA has started two new youth basketball programs that are attracting girls and boys ages 5 through 12 years.

For older youth, there is the Bogger Traveling Team, made up of fourth and fifth graders who are part of a five-team league that includes Middleboro (two teams), East Bridgewater, and Stoughton. The Boggers has 10 players and began playing games on Dec. 5.

For less experienced players, the Y is starting a Youth Basektball League (YBL) on Jan. 2 with three mixed boy and girl groups, the Y Rookies (ages 5-6 and 7-8) and Y Ballers (ages 9-12).

Y Senior Program Director Lu Brito explained the differences between the two programs: "The traveling team has ten players and is open to boys and girls, although we only have boys on the team right now.  They named themselves the Boggers.  We've played three games so far and the team is 2-1".

The idea for the league came from new Y Director Debbie Fringuelli, who had a similar program when she was at the Old Colony YMCA.

Brito said the team sponsor, Charlie Burnett of PrimeLending,  is providing support for team shirts and game referees.  While this is a competitive traveling team, he explained that the focus is on making sure "kids have fun – sports for kids has to be about having fun."

The Youth Basketball League plays basketball exclusively at the Gleason Family YMCA on Saturdays, and focuses on teaching young players the basics of basketball and sportsmanship.  Brito has recruited players from the Wareham High School varsity to help with the instruction, but is looking for parent coaches, as well.

Parents and others who want to volunteer with the league should contact Lu Brito at 508-295-9622, or Lbrito@ymcasouthcoast.org.