New alliances in Indiana, Missouri, Massachusetts, and Illinois aim to break down barriers for young athletes in underserved communities
ATLANTA, GA — [August 19, 2025] — RCX Sports, the leader in youth sports experiences, today announced the expansion of its statewide community partnerships to increase access to high-quality youth sports across the U.S. The company, which serves as the official youth sports operator for the NFL, NBA, WNBA, NHL, MLS, MLB, and USTA, has formed new alliances with the Indiana Park and Recreation Association (IPRA), Missouri Park and Recreation Association (MPRA), Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs, and Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs. These partnerships join existing statewide relationships in Arkansas, Louisiana, and Alabama, creating a growing national network of local organizations committed to removing barriers to play.
“At RCX Sports, our mission is to make sports accessible and inclusive for every child, no matter where they live or what resources they have,” said Izell Reese, CEO and founder of RCX Sports. “By working directly with trusted community organizations at the state level, we can provide not only the programming, but also the training, tools, and resources needed to build sustainable youth sports ecosystems.”
Through these collaborations, RCX Sports is expanding opportunities for participation in youth sports, reaching more than 1,500+ local municipalities and YMCAs across the six state parks associations and two YMCA alliances. The partnerships provide training for coaches and staff, and deliver educational resources designed to foster safe and inclusive environments for all participants.
The impact of increased youth sports access is well-documented: participation is linked to better health outcomes, stronger academic performance, and improved social-emotional skills. RCX’s community-driven approach ensures that these benefits are available to all young athletes—regardless of zip code.
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About RCX Sports
RCX Sports is the leader in youth sports experiences, operating and partnering with leagues, events, and brands to engage and empower the next generation of athletes. As the official youth sports operator for the NFL, NBA, WNBA, NHL, MLS, MLB, and USTA, RCX is the only multi-sport organization trusted by pro leagues and governing bodies to represent them. RCX Sports delivers officially licensed uniforms, comprehensive resources, and full support, empowering league operators to create the best youth sports experiences in their communities. Committed to making youth sports accessible and inclusive, RCX Sports creates opportunities for all athletes to play and benefit from the transformative power of sports. For more information, visit rcxsports.com.
About The Missouri Park and Recreation Association
The Missouri Park and Recreation Association, whose members work to provide opportunities for all the state’s citizens to enjoy quality leisure activities, is dedicated to promoting public support for parks and recreation and public awareness of the contribution of recreation to a balanced life. The association works to ensure the growth and improve the quality and accessibility of urban and rural parks, open spaces and recreation lands, facilities and programs for all Missourians. It promotes research and information dissemination on parks, conservation, recreation, and leisure issues.
About The Indiana Park and Recreation Association
The Indiana Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) promotes healthy living and environmental responsibility through education, professional development, resources, and advocacy. Representing over 1,400 parks and recreation professionals across Indiana, IPRA works to support the growth and improvement of parks and recreation throughout the state.
About Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs
The Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs is the membership and public policy arm representing 28 YMCA associations, 86 branches, and over 700 service locations across the Commonwealth. As the largest collective provider of early education, out-of-school time, and camp programs in Massachusetts, the Alliance serves more than 500,000 youth annually, supported by over 17,000 staff, most of whom work in youth development. The Alliance amplifies the collective voice of its members by advocating for equitable public policies, influencing systems-level change, and facilitating partnerships that address pressing issues in Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. With a focus on policy, advocacy, resource sharing, and strategic collaboration, the Alliance works to elevate the mission of Ys statewide, enrich communities, and ensure a healthier, more connected future for all Massachusetts residents.
About Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs
The mission of the Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs to support, connect, and unite YMCAs for collective impact. The Alliance brings together more than 800 YMCA program locations impacting more than 150 communities and engaging nearly 1 million Illinoisans to strengthen the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
