Launched in Summer 2025 through a meaningful partnership between the South Mountain YMCA and SOMA Basketball Boosters, Buddy Ball is a new program created for neurodivergent children to learn and love the game of basketball in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.
Thanks to the vision and dedication of program leaders Nicole Josey, Michael Laughner, Fred Ross, Beth Levy, Yoav Hagler and Taylor Valentine, Buddy Ball pairs each player one-on-one with a volunteer “buddy” coach. These compassionate volunteers work closely with participants to introduce the fundamentals of basketball such as dribbling, passing, and shooting all through adapted drills, small group instruction, and lots of encouragement.
Practices are guided by the YMCA’s beloved Coach Fred, whose energy, patience, and enthusiasm create a fun and engaging atmosphere for every player. As CHS senior and volunteer buddy Natty Greenberg shared, “I love the manner that Coach Fred leads the activities in, and I think it’s incredibly engaging for all of the kids involved. It’s great to see how happy they are after every session.”
Whether it is a child’s first time picking up a basketball or a chance to build on existing skills, Buddy Ball meets each player where they are. The program focuses on confidence, connection, and fun over competition, making space for kids to grow both on and off the court.
Volunteer and SOMA Basketball Boosters member Yoav Hagler reflected, “It has been a privilege to be part of a program at its inception that creates such a joyful and inclusive space for kids. Watching the connections grow between players and their buddies through basketball has been an awesome experience. I’m grateful to help support something that makes our community stronger.”
Buddy Basketball is where every kid gets to be part of the team. Player Sean Rumley summed it up best: “It’s incredible that I can go out and do stuff like that!”
If you’re interested in registering your child for the next season of Buddy Ball—starting Thursday, September 11—you can visit the South Mountain YMCA website for players age 5-12 and players age 13-18.