On Saturday, the Charlotte County Recreation Association (CCRA) kicked off a new season of youth basketball in the county.

Randolph-Henry High School gym was packed with eager children and their parents, ready to begin a fun competitive season of basketball.

“I’m excited to see another year of youth basketball begin in the county. I’ve been directing the program for the past 15 years, and it’s a good feeling to see the children having good, clean fun,” said CCRA Director, James Gregory.

This year, the basketball league has a total of nine teams, ranging from ages 7-15. There are two divisions that divide the young players by age. The first division is for ages 7-10 and the second division caters to youth ages 11-15. A total of 87 kids signed up this year, Gregory said.

Founded in 2001, the Charlotte County Recreation Association’s youth basketball program has been in existence for the past 15 years.

“I’ve been a volunteer with the Charlotte County Recreation Association since the implementation of the youth basketball program, said volunteer Tracey Gregory.

“I believe one of the most important aspects of a community is focusing on the youth and how to incorporate beneficial activities to inspire and promote wellness. I believe the CCRA accomplishes this goal,” she said.

Gregory said that he is thankful for all of the volunteers, including the coaches, because mentoring children can be a time-consuming task.

In addition to basketball, the Charlotte County Recreation Association performs multiple projects throughout the year. Gregory said these projects include a baseball team, the formation of a new park and playground in Drakes Branch, the mega class reunion, and sponsoring professional wrestling each year.

The Charlotte County Recreation Association is a non-profit organization. Basketball games are held each Saturday at Randolph-Henry.

“The organization plans to expand in the future to provide more activities and services,” Gregory said.

To stay updated on future games and announcements about the CCRA, follow the organization of Facebook at www.facebook.com/theccra.