ACYS was started in 1986 by a group of five spiritually minded men whose kids participated in youth sports in the Altamonte area. Led by George Schank these men endeavored to begin a youth sports league based on biblical principals like integrity, fairness, teamwork, accountability, mutual respect and love. Their desire was to create an environment where the well-being of children would be put first over a win-at-all cost attitude; a place where if you weren’t the best player on the team you still received an opportunity to play and have fun. Most importantly, they desired to create a league that honored God not only in word but in action by modeling Christian values through its programs, policies and people. “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it” Proverbs 22:6 They began with an idea, two teams, a set of Bylaws and the faith that God would bless it.
Today, ACYS has grown into one the largest multi-sport youth sports leagues in Central Florida. Each season it provides a fun, safe and instructional environment where kids can be kids while learning to play sports and experience important life lessons along the way. Last year ACYS registered nearly 4,000 participants, some 375 teams over five sports: soccer, flag football, basketball, baseball and softball. Soccer has the largest following and is played in both the Fall and Spring of each year. The remaining sports play only once a year; football and basketball in the winter with baseball and softball following in the spring. Most seasons run in succession without overlap to allow kids the opportunity to play every sport if they choose. Currently only soccer has a competitive division called Spirit United which provides a venue for the more advanced athletes to develop and showcase their skills.
ACYS will always be mindful of its humble beginning and the Christian values it was built upon. We believe God will continue to work through the many parents, coaches and volunteers to positively impact the children and families of Central Florida. Our prayer is for Him to continue to equip ACYS and touch lives in a positive way through sports.
