sport
Amarillo Youth Sports Expands With New Leagues and Community-Driven Programs
New leagues, a major merger and expanding programs reflect community-driven efforts to broaden access for local young athletes.
How we reported this
Amarillo's youth sports scene is expanding through new football options and a consolidation of baseball and softball programs under Kids, Inc., which was established in 1945. The Iron Plains Youth Football League, founded by CJ Johnson, adds choices for families seeking additional playing opportunities in the area.
Merger Consolidates Baseball and Softball
Kids, Inc. merged with the Texas Panhandle Youth Sports Foundation in 2026. This step brings together major leagues including the Amarillo Area Rotary Youth Baseball League, West Texas Youth Baseball and West Texas Fastpitch under one organization. The merger aims to streamline operations for these established programs that have long served Amarillo families.
Hockey Growth Adds Momentum
Hockey continues to gain participants locally. The Amarillo Wranglers 14U team captured a World Series title at an annual tournament in Odessa. Amarillo Ice Sports, which operates as a regional hub, increased from 32 registered participants in 2009 to over 1,000 youth and adult players. This expansion highlights one of the faster-growing sports in the city.
Kids, Inc. also announced plans for a $30 million outdoor multi-sport athletic complex on 90 acres south of Loop 335. Phase One includes 60 acres of lighted synthetic turf fields. The Top of Texas Youth Sports League operates three regulation-sized youth football fields at John Stiff Memorial Park, providing a central location for events. Additional programs such as flag football, soccer, volleyball, T-ball, softball, track and cheerleading run through facilities including the Sportsplex at 2209 SE 33rd.
Community Focus Drives Participation
These developments stem from local organizers responding to demand for more structured activities. Iron Plains Youth Football League president CJ Johnson has discussed community involvement and program growth on local media. The emphasis remains on providing accessible options rather than large-scale commercial projects.
Residents interested in enrolling can contact the respective organizations directly through their established channels. Programs continue to accept participants on a rolling basis where capacity allows, with details available on the groups' websites.