Our Story
Sports should build kids up,
not weigh them down.
Junior Athletes was founded on a simple belief: every child deserves the chance to play, grow, and feel proud, without the pressure to perform.
Mission Statement
To help children discover a love for sport through positive, inclusive, and supportive experiences.
WHERE YOUR REGISTRATION GOES
Not-for-profit, and all in on Ottawa kids.
Junior Athletes is run by the RA Centre, a not-for-profit organization, which makes Junior Athletes a not-for-profit program too.
We're not here to make money off families. We're here to get more kids playing and loving sport. Registration fees go back into the program, and that's what lets us hire and train local coaches, offer 1:1 support, and partner with Their Opportunity so cost doesn't keep any kid off the court.
When you sign up with Junior Athletes, you're not just booking a program. You're helping build a stronger sport community right here in Ottawa.
Back into the program
Registration fees pay for great coaches, quality equipment, and gym space across Ottawa.
Sport for every family
Through our partnership with Their Opportunity, kids from low-income families can play at no cost.
Jobs for local coaches
We hire and train coaches from our own community, with certifications like Safe Sport and NCCP. We even cover their NCCP course fees.
Room for every kid
Your registration helps us offer 1:1 coaches for kids who need a little extra support to jump in.
Why We Exist
A different kind of youth sports
Too many kids quit sports before they ever really start. The reason? Pressure, comparison, and a culture that celebrates only the top performers.
We are changing that. At Junior Athletes, we create environments where effort is celebrated, teamwork is taught, and fun is never optional. Our coaches are mentors first, trained to build confidence, not just skills.
How We Coach
Our Coaching Philosophy
At Junior Athletes, great coaching is about more than running drills. Our coaches create positive, structured, and supportive environments where children can learn, grow, and feel confident trying new things.
Certified, Experienced Coaches
Our programs are led by certified, professional coaches with strong experience working with children in recreational sport settings. Coaches receive training to support different ages, skill levels, personalities, and learning needs.
We Meet Kids Where They Are
Every child learns differently. Our coaches focus on patience, encouragement, and helping each participant progress at their own pace.
We Teach Through Play
Children learn best when they are active, engaged, and having fun. Our sessions use games, challenges, and age-appropriate activities to build real sport skills in a positive way.
Confidence Before Competition
Junior Athletes is recreational and low-pressure. We focus on helping children feel capable, included, and proud of their progress before worrying about competition.
A Positive First Sport Experience
Whether a child is brand new to sport or already loves being active, our goal is for every participant to leave feeling supported, successful, and excited to come back.
For Every Family
Programs designed around your child
Whether your child is a toddler taking their first steps into sport, or a teen looking for a social, active outlet, we have a program that fits. No tryouts. No cuts. Just positive energy and great coaching.
- Four convenient locations across Ottawa
- Weekday and weekend session options
- Certified coaches who put kids first
