
Wake Hustle Grind Youth Recreation League
Parent Information — Afterschool & More Than Basketball
A safe, positive afterschool program for Cleveland youth that pairs competitive basketball with academics, life skills, and mentorship.
Register Now Sponsor a TeamOur Mission
- Provide a safe, positive afterschool environment for Cleveland youth
- Teach teamwork, discipline, leadership, and healthy habits
- Pair competitive basketball with academics, life skills, and mentorship
- Keep kids active and engaged — on the court and in the classroom
Who We Serve
- Ages 8–11, 12–14, 15–17 (three divisions)
- 4–6 teams per division • 6 players per team
- Beginner to advanced players welcome
- Program is FREE to families (community-funded)
Program Schedule (3 Days/Week)
- Day 1: Skills & Development — fundamentals, conditioning, sportsmanship
- Day 2: League Games — 5-on-5 with referees, rotating matchups
- Day 3: League Games + Workshops — short life-skills during downtime
Season Format
- 8–10 weeks per session
- 6–8 regular-season games + playoff tournament
- Championship Day with awards and family celebration
- Player evaluations at start and end of season
More Than Basketball — Afterschool Supports
- Homework help & tutoring (report card on file for accountability)
- Financial literacy & entrepreneurship mini-workshops
- Health & wellness: nutrition, injury prevention, mental wellness basics
- Career talks from local entrepreneurs and professionals
Why parents love it: structure after school, academic accountability, and positive mentors—plus real game action.
Coaching & Safety
- Volunteer & staff coaches trained in youth development
- Referees ensure fair play and learning moments
- First-aid supplies on site; emergency plan and contacts on file
- Mandatory waiver + parent permission and SMS updates
Code of Conduct (Players & Families)
- Respect teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials
- Arrive on time; communicate absences in advance
- No foul language, bullying, or unsportsmanlike behavior
- Parents: model positive sideline behavior; let coaches coach
Attendance & Eligibility
- Consistent attendance is expected
- Report card required before games (academic accountability)
- Players must follow safety rules and staff instructions
- Injury/illness: notify staff and provide medical clearance if needed
Communication
- Text alerts for schedules, weather, and reminders (opt-in at signup)
- Email weekly updates and game schedules
- Team chats for coaches/parents for quick updates
- Website signup page for new sessions & sponsorships
Uniforms & Equipment
- Uniform shirt provided (size selected at registration)
- Wear athletic shoes; bring water bottle
- Optional: mouthguards, knee pads, ankle support
- Label personal items; league not responsible for lost items
Facilities & Pickup
- Cleveland recreation centers and/or partner school gyms
- Clear entry/exit and pickup zones for safety
- Parents/guardians must pick up on time
- Photo ID may be required for pickup by non-guardians
Health & Wellness
- Hydration & nutrition tips provided to players
- Injury prevention warm-ups and cool-downs each session
- Light conditioning appropriate for age and level
- Allergies/medical notes collected on registration form
Afterschool Learning Tracks
- STEM & AI basics (age-appropriate sessions)
- Financial literacy & entrepreneurship (saving, budgets, business basics)
- Career pathway spotlights (guest mentors)
- Community service and leadership opportunities
Parent Involvement
- Volunteer opportunities: team parent, events, scorekeeping
- Join parent advisory calls to shape programming
- Support uniform/scholarship fund (sponsorship options available)
- Be a positive fan — our kids are watching us
Sponsorships (100% Tax-Deductible)
| Level | What it Supports |
|---|---|
| $500 — Team Uniform Sponsor | One team’s uniform set (naming mention on schedule & website) |
| $1,000 — Team Naming Rights | Naming on team’s uniform + schedule, website, announcements |
| $5,000 — Age Bracket Partner | Brand on uniforms across 4 teams in an age bracket + tournament/awards naming |
| $100 — Small Logo on Uniform | Small logo placement on the back of a team uniform |
Your donation is 100% tax deductible.
Registration (What We Collect)
- Parent contact info (email + SMS for alerts)
- Age division, school, uniform size
- Insurance type (Medicaid/Non-Medicaid/Other)
- Waiver, parent permission, text consent, report-card agreement
Sample Calendar
- Week 1: Evaluations + Skills
- Weeks 2–7: League Games (2x/week) + Workshops
- Week 8: Playoffs & Championship
- Week 9–10 (optional): Celebration, surveys, next session pre-registration
Parent FAQs
- What days/times? Finalized by site; texted and emailed weekly
- What if my child misses? Communicate; we offer make-up skills sessions
- Is transportation provided? Currently no; exploring solutions
- What does it cost? Free to families thanks to sponsors and donors
Contact & Next Steps
Email: wakehustlegrind@gmail.com
Instagram: @wakehustlegrind_ceo