100-222 Somerset St. W. Ottawa, ON K2P 0A7

Ottawa Blog

Living in Ottawa

Highlighting the best sports programs for children in Ottawa  

Play Video

Highlighting the best sports programs for children in Ottawa  

Want to discover the highlighting of the best sports programs for children in Ottawa? Living in Ottawa comes with a plethora of options for children to get involved in sports teams or programs. But with so many options out there, finding the best sports program in Ottawa for your little one can be a little overwhelming. Thankfully, we’ve got your back. From soccer to basketball, hockey to gymnastics, we’ve scoured the city to find the cream of the crop when it comes to sports programs. So sit back, relax, and let us take the wheel in this search for the perfect program for your little all-star.

It’s no secret that kids are bundles of energy just waiting to be released. And what better way to release all that pent-up energy than through sports? Not only do sports provide a fun way for children to stay active and healthy, but they also teach valuable life skills like teamwork, perseverance, and goal-setting. And let’s not forget the confidence boost that comes along with mastering a new skill or scoring a winning goal. So go ahead and enroll your little ones in sports – not only will they thank you for it, but who knows, you may just have the next superstar athlete in your family!

Sports enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that Ottawa, Canada’s capital, boasts a rich history in the world of sports dating back to the 19th century. With a diverse range of options, Ottawa is home to five professional sports teams, including the Ottawa Senators of the National Hockey League, the Ottawa Redblacks of the Canadian Football League, the Ottawa Titans of the Frontier League, the Ottawa Blackjacks of the Canadian Elite Basketball League, and Atlético Ottawa of the Canadian Premier League. The city also houses non-professional teams such as the Ottawa 67’s junior hockey team and other semi-professional and collegiate teams that participate in various sports. Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or a keen follower of football, the sports scene in Ottawa has something for everyone.

HOCKEY

Hockey is more than just a sport in Ottawa – it’s a way of life. From the moment you step out onto the ice, you can feel the energy and excitement that is so uniquely Canadian. Players of all ages and levels come together to enjoy this beloved game, from beginners in local community leagues to seasoned professionals on the Ottawa Senators. The passion for hockey in Ottawa is undeniable, and it’s no wonder that the city has produced some of the best players in the world. But it’s not just about the games – hockey culture can be felt throughout the city, with local businesses supporting the sport and fans sporting their favourite jerseys. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking to try something new, the vibrant hockey community in Ottawa is sure to leave a lasting impression.

If you’re living in Ottawa and are interested in getting involved in hockey, you’re in luck! First, you can try joining local hockey leagues. There are multiple leagues available for all ages and levels of skill. Be sure to check out the City of Ottawa website for a full list of resources as well you can connect with the area of the city you are planning on living in for their local hockey organization and they can certainly direct you from there. If you are brand new to the sport you can join many of the public skating programs the city offers as well as the private skating and hockey programs across the city. Moreover, there are various community programs and events that involve hockey, such as the Ottawa Senators Alumni and various charity events. Lastly, you can also become a fan of the Ottawa Senators, the local NHL team which brings the community together with their games and events. Whether you are a seasoned hockey veteran or a beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to become involved in hockey culture in Ottawa.

The city of Ottawa is known for its incredible sports programs. Whether you’re a fan of ball hockey, lacrosse, or ringette, there’s something for everyone. The city’s programs are designed to be inclusive, offering opportunities for all ages and skill levels to develop their athletic abilities. From organized leagues to recreational games, the city provides a variety of options for residents to participate in the sports they love. So whether you’re looking to lace up your skates or pick up a stick for the first time, the city of Ottawa is the perfect place to take part in these exciting sports.

These programs are mostly volunteer-driven, but if you’re looking to join a more structured and competitive league, you can expect to find organizations that closely oversee these events. Typically, the selection criteria for these programs involve your date of birth and your skill level. These programs take place in various arenas and gymnasiums scattered throughout the city, with many of them being hosted in public facilities provided by the city. So whether you’re looking to hone your craft or just have a good time, there are many sports programs available to you that can meet your needs.

SOCCER

There are plenty of opportunities for soccer enthusiasts in the city! You can start by checking out local recreational leagues and signing up for a team or joining a pick-up game. There are also various youth leagues and camps available if you have children who are interested in playing. Another great option is volunteering with local soccer organizations, which can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities. Don’t forget to explore online resources such as club websites and social media pages to stay up-to-date on upcoming events and tryouts. With a little bit of research and effort, you can easily get involved in the exciting soccer scene in Ottawa!

Soccer has truly become a staple in Ottawa’s sports scene, with a rich history of over 100 years of playing the game. In the city, you’ll find a mix of youth development, competitive, and adult recreational leagues all bustling with activity. One of the most notable teams to come out of Ottawa is the women’s semi-professional team, the Ottawa Fury Women. However, when the Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group launched a professional men’s team, the Ottawa Fury FC, in 2014, it quickly became a fan favorite. Unfortunately, the team dissolved in 2019, but soccer fans in the city can still look forward to supporting a new team – Atlético Ottawa, which will play in the Canadian Premier League. Owned by the Spanish club Atlético Madrid, the team will make its home at Lansdowne Park in a redeveloped TD Place Stadium. The arrival of this new team speaks to the continued growth and popularity of soccer in this city.

FOOTBALL

For kids in Ottawa, life on the football field can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Many young athletes find a sense of community and camaraderie through their participation in football leagues and programs throughout the city. With a focus on teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness, football can be a valuable way for children to develop important skills that will serve them well both on and off the field. From early morning practices to after-school games and tournaments, the football life for kids in Ottawa is full of challenges and opportunities for growth. With dedicated coaches, supportive parents, and a passion for the game, young football players in Ottawa are able to thrive and achieve success.

Football is no stranger to the city of Ottawa, aside from the famous Ottawa Redblacks in the CFL Ottawa also has the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees football team having won two Vanier Cups in 1975 and 2000. The program at Carleton University was cancelled after the 1998 season, but there have been efforts to revive the program. In fact, the football team was approved for Ontario University Athletics Membership starting in 2013. The rivalry between the two schools is intense, and their annual game is known as the Panda Game. Though the two universities are not the only ones with football teams in the city. The Ottawa Sooners play in the Canadian Junior Football League, while the Ottawa Junior Riders play in the Quebec Junior Football League. Football is well and alive in Ottawa, and with such a rich history, it’s no wonder why the enthusiasm for the sport continues.

ULTIMATE FRISBEE

Ottawa is renowned for having one of the world’s most extensive ultimate frisbee communities. This sport has been a prominent feature in Ottawa since the establishment of the Ottawa-Carleton Ultimate Association in 1986. It’s no wonder that the city has hosted the Canadian Ultimate Championships six times, most recently in 2017. Ultimate frisbee enthusiasts from around the globe flock to Ottawa to participate in the tournament and experience the city’s renowned hospitality. The city’s stunning natural landscapes and state-of-the-art facilities make it an ideal location for ultimate frisbee events. Ottawa’s passion for this exciting and dynamic sport continues to grow by the year, cementing its reputation as a world-class ultimate frisbee destination.

BASEBALL

For kids in Ottawa who love baseball, the summer months are filled with excitement and endless opportunities to play the game. With local leagues and teams, children of all ages and skill levels have the chance to participate in competitive and recreational games. From hitting balls at the batting cages to playing in local tournaments, baseball in Ottawa is a great pastime that brings families and communities together. For parents, baseball season means early mornings and late nights spent cheering on their little sluggers, but the joy on their children’s faces as they field grounders and slide into the home makes it all worth it. In Ottawa, baseball runs from April through October but check your local organization and league as things can differ.

BASKETBALL

Basketball is a popular sport among kids in Ottawa, and there are many opportunities to get involved in the game. Youth basketball leagues are available throughout the city, offering children the chance to develop their skills and play in organized games. There are also basketball camps and clinics during the summer months that provide additional coaching and training for kids. For those looking for a more casual game, many community centres have basketball courts that are open to the public. Overall, basketball is a great way for kids to stay active, make friends, and develop important life skills such as teamwork and sportsmanship.

Conclusion

If you’re a kid living in Ottawa and have a passion for sports, you’re in luck! Ottawa offers a plethora of sports options for children beyond the larger ones mentioned. Ottawa also offers swimming, gymnastics, field hockey, curling and so much more! There are opportunities for every child to find a sport they enjoy. Ottawa’s commitment to athletics is evident in its world-class facilities, including the Canadian Tire Centre, TD Place Stadium, Bells Sensplex, Cavanagh Recreational Facility, Richcraft Recreational Facility and so many more across the city. The community also comes together to support sports, as seen through the enthusiasm for the Ottawa Senators and Ottawa Fury FC professional teams. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced athlete, living in Ottawa offers a vibrant and supportive sports culture for them to thrive in.

And if you are thinking of relocating to Ottawa feel free to reach out to us. Give us a call – shoot us a text – send us an email – or even wrap it in a bow and send it first class because we got your back when moving to Ottawa or anywhere across Canada.

RECOMMENDED VIDEOS:

TOP 5 HIGHEST CRIME AREAS IN OTTAWA 

MOVING TO OTTAWA FROM ANOTHER PROVINCE 

Looking to relocate to Ottawa?
We Can Help!

Learn More About Living in Ottawa

Privacy Preferences
When you visit our website, it may store information through your browser from specific services, usually in form of cookies. Here you can change your privacy preferences. Please note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our website and the services we offer.