Statewide collaborations will connect local YMCAs with national pro league programs, training, and resources to expand inclusive youth sports
ATLANTA, GA — [August 19, 2025] — RCX Sports, the leader in youth sports experiences and the official youth sports operator for the NFL, NBA, WNBA, NHL, MLS, MLB, and USTA, today announced new statewide partnerships with the Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs and the Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs to bring professional league-affiliated programming, coaching resources, and expanded opportunities to YMCA youth sports programs across both states.
“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 partnerships, YMCAs across both states will have direct access to national sports league affiliations, innovative programming such as NFL FLAG, and comprehensive training for coaches and staff. The goal is to increase participation and create more inclusive, safe, and inspiring environments for young athletes.
Wendy Bonilla, Director of Alliance Services for the Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs, said: “This partnership will create synergy between national sports leagues and YMCA youth sports programs in Illinois. We’re excited to continue the tradition of YMCA sports innovation while elevating the experience for players and fans.”
Kate-Marie Roycroft, CEO of the Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs, added: “This collaboration allows us to connect our statewide YMCA network with high-quality, professionally affiliated programs that not only promote physical activity but also inspire leadership and teamwork. Together with RCX, we’re opening doors to new opportunities for our youth and strengthening our commitment to inclusive, community-based sports experiences.”
The Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs represents 28 associations and 86 branches serving more than 500,000 youth annually, while the Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs connects over 800 program locations impacting nearly 1 million Illinoisans—making this partnership a significant step forward in expanding youth sports access and impact.
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. working with statewide associations, RCX Sports ensures that these benefits are available to all young athletes.
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 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.
