When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Sportball Austin
Why Sportball Austin is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sportball Austin offers a dynamic and research-backed environment for children aged 16 months to 12 years to explore and develop their athletic abilities through multiple sports. Located in Austin, this franchise is led by experienced program directors Alyssa & Mica Villalon, who bring a passion for sports and child development. The programs focus on non-competitive, inclusive play that builds physical literacy, confidence, and social skills. Sportball Austin features a multi-sport curriculum incorporating eight sports—soccer, baseball, basketball, football, hockey, volleyball, golf, and tennis—enabling kids to discover their interests while honing diverse athletic skills. Classes maintain small squad sizes of 6 to 16 children with 45 to 60 minutes of active play time led by specially trained coaches committed to encouraging each child's growth. Beyond regular programming, Sportball Austin also hosts birthday parties and partners with local schools, daycares, and community centers to bring their acclaimed curriculum to broader audiences. Parents appreciate the opportunity it provides for their children to stay energized and build lifelong healthy habits in a safe and nurturing environment. This combination of an expert, child-centered approach and community integration makes Sportball Austin an excellent place for families to meet, learn, and play together.
Here's what people think of Sportball Austin
As of recent, Sportball Austin holds a 5-star rating based on 56 reviews.
Reviews of Sportball Austin consistently highlight a 5.0-star rating from 56 reviews, reflecting overwhelming satisfaction from both parents and participants. Positive feedback commonly praises the highly skilled coaches, who infuse kindness, humor, professionalism, and encouragement into each session. Reviewers note that the programs are age-appropriate and designed to build confidence and empower children, fostering a love for sports across the diverse activities offered. Parents commend the seamless registration process and excellent communication from staff, emphasizing how much their children enjoy the energetic yet supportive sessions. The multi-sport approach receives special mention as it cultivates broad skill development and allows kids to find their own favorite sports. Negative comments are minimal but occasionally mention challenges such as limited class capacity leading to waitlists or schedule constraints; however, these are rare and often outweighed by the program's benefits. Overall, the reviews confirm Sportball Austin’s reputation as a highly recommended, well-run organization that positively impacts children's physical and social development while making sports fun and accessible for families.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Keely Kolar Schaefer
Sportball: Where My Kids Think They’re Pro Athletes and I Get a Break Sportball Austin is basically a kid’s dream wrapped in a jersey and sprinkled with orange slices. My 9-year-old son would gladly ditch school, cancel birthdays, and sell his sibling (kidding… mostly) just to go to Sportball every day. He’s already campaigning to be their official poster child, and honestly? He’s got the charisma and sweatbands to pull it off. My 5-year-old daughter is equally obsessed. She runs onto the field like she’s entering the Olympics, even if she has no clue what sport they’re playing that day. Soccer? Basketball? Mystery ball? Doesn’t matter—she'll make it a game including Elsa and Anna. The coaches? Absolute legends. They somehow manage to teach skills, keep kids laughing, and maintain total control over a wild pack of mini humans fueled by goldfish crackers and chaos. It’s like summer camp meets pro athlete boot camp meets giggle factory. We did the summer camp, and it was everything we needed: fresh air, sports skills, and a full day of fun that wasn’t in my living room. The kids came home happy, sweaty, and occasionally wearing their clothes inside-out—which I count as a huge parenting win.
Morgan Knowles
My son did Sportball through LTUMC Preschool and I cannot say enough good things about it. Not only did he learn and grow so much through it, from sportsmanship to various skills, but he also adored his coach and talked so highly of him constantly. He looked forward to seeing him each week and always left feeling excited and proud of the work done. Although preschool has ended, we will be looking to join Sportball again elsewhere.
Lauren Brown
Our son attended Sportball, through his school, and absolutely loved it as a Pre-K student. It was a fun way for him to experience a variety of sports without having to complete a full season. It was held on his campus after school so he was able to stay at school to attend Sportball and it was a huge relief for us as parents to not have one more stop to make before heading home for the evening. We will be signing up again in the fall, as well as attending the summer camps! Definitely recommend!
Melanie Gartman
Sportball has been great for our toddler! I love that it gets him used to listening to another adult and following their instructions, plus he gets to run around and play all the different ball sports he loves. Its a great intro to sports for toddlers!
Jenna Woods
This was our first year at school. Our daughter absolutely loved this program at Lake Travis UMC Preschool. Coach JR and the whole team always made it fun and engaging for every age. It was so neat to witness her learning as she would come out each week excitedly telling us what new games they played and new skills they learned. We noticed a remarkable difference in her sportsmanship and turn taking as well. When we first started we thought this was a program connected to the school but eagerly signed up once we heard it wasn’t just after school daycare and was a culmination of multi sport lessons. They’ve been at her preschool for something like over a decade (more?? I’m not sure I just remember it was a really long time) and the staff all sang praises over the program so we tried it. My favorite memory had to have been during a soccer game for her team at HCI (not through school). They were practicing drills and all of a sudden our girl starts effortlessly busting out skills we had never seen. Stopping the ball with one foot while dribbling, spinning 360 and it made us smile. Not only did she have fun and come home physically tired (parent win) but she was always happy and in a great mood. If you’re on the fence about joining the sportball program at your school this is your sign to make it happen! All of her friends loved sportball day and we think you will too. Thanks team! We haven’t don’t a summer camp but we’ve heard from some friends they are incredibly fun!
Keely Kolar Schaefer
Sportball: Where My Kids Think They’re Pro Athletes and I Get a Break Sportball Austin is basically a kid’s dream wrapped in a jersey and sprinkled with orange slices. My 9-year-old son would gladly ditch school, cancel birthdays, and sell his sibling (kidding… mostly) just to go to Sportball every day. He’s already campaigning to be their official poster child, and honestly? He’s got the charisma and sweatbands to pull it off. My 5-year-old daughter is equally obsessed. She runs onto the field like she’s entering the Olympics, even if she has no clue what sport they’re playing that day. Soccer? Basketball? Mystery ball? Doesn’t matter—she'll make it a game including Elsa and Anna. The coaches? Absolute legends. They somehow manage to teach skills, keep kids laughing, and maintain total control over a wild pack of mini humans fueled by goldfish crackers and chaos. It’s like summer camp meets pro athlete boot camp meets giggle factory. We did the summer camp, and it was everything we needed: fresh air, sports skills, and a full day of fun that wasn’t in my living room. The kids came home happy, sweaty, and occasionally wearing their clothes inside-out—which I count as a huge parenting win.
Morgan Knowles
My son did Sportball through LTUMC Preschool and I cannot say enough good things about it. Not only did he learn and grow so much through it, from sportsmanship to various skills, but he also adored his coach and talked so highly of him constantly. He looked forward to seeing him each week and always left feeling excited and proud of the work done. Although preschool has ended, we will be looking to join Sportball again elsewhere.
Lauren Brown
Our son attended Sportball, through his school, and absolutely loved it as a Pre-K student. It was a fun way for him to experience a variety of sports without having to complete a full season. It was held on his campus after school so he was able to stay at school to attend Sportball and it was a huge relief for us as parents to not have one more stop to make before heading home for the evening. We will be signing up again in the fall, as well as attending the summer camps! Definitely recommend!
Melanie Gartman
Sportball has been great for our toddler! I love that it gets him used to listening to another adult and following their instructions, plus he gets to run around and play all the different ball sports he loves. Its a great intro to sports for toddlers!
Jenna Woods
This was our first year at school. Our daughter absolutely loved this program at Lake Travis UMC Preschool. Coach JR and the whole team always made it fun and engaging for every age. It was so neat to witness her learning as she would come out each week excitedly telling us what new games they played and new skills they learned. We noticed a remarkable difference in her sportsmanship and turn taking as well. When we first started we thought this was a program connected to the school but eagerly signed up once we heard it wasn’t just after school daycare and was a culmination of multi sport lessons. They’ve been at her preschool for something like over a decade (more?? I’m not sure I just remember it was a really long time) and the staff all sang praises over the program so we tried it. My favorite memory had to have been during a soccer game for her team at HCI (not through school). They were practicing drills and all of a sudden our girl starts effortlessly busting out skills we had never seen. Stopping the ball with one foot while dribbling, spinning 360 and it made us smile. Not only did she have fun and come home physically tired (parent win) but she was always happy and in a great mood. If you’re on the fence about joining the sportball program at your school this is your sign to make it happen! All of her friends loved sportball day and we think you will too. Thanks team! We haven’t don’t a summer camp but we’ve heard from some friends they are incredibly fun!
Keely Kolar Schaefer
Sportball: Where My Kids Think They’re Pro Athletes and I Get a Break Sportball Austin is basically a kid’s dream wrapped in a jersey and sprinkled with orange slices. My 9-year-old son would gladly ditch school, cancel birthdays, and sell his sibling (kidding… mostly) just to go to Sportball every day. He’s already campaigning to be their official poster child, and honestly? He’s got the charisma and sweatbands to pull it off. My 5-year-old daughter is equally obsessed. She runs onto the field like she’s entering the Olympics, even if she has no clue what sport they’re playing that day. Soccer? Basketball? Mystery ball? Doesn’t matter—she'll make it a game including Elsa and Anna. The coaches? Absolute legends. They somehow manage to teach skills, keep kids laughing, and maintain total control over a wild pack of mini humans fueled by goldfish crackers and chaos. It’s like summer camp meets pro athlete boot camp meets giggle factory. We did the summer camp, and it was everything we needed: fresh air, sports skills, and a full day of fun that wasn’t in my living room. The kids came home happy, sweaty, and occasionally wearing their clothes inside-out—which I count as a huge parenting win.
Morgan Knowles
My son did Sportball through LTUMC Preschool and I cannot say enough good things about it. Not only did he learn and grow so much through it, from sportsmanship to various skills, but he also adored his coach and talked so highly of him constantly. He looked forward to seeing him each week and always left feeling excited and proud of the work done. Although preschool has ended, we will be looking to join Sportball again elsewhere.
Lauren Brown
Our son attended Sportball, through his school, and absolutely loved it as a Pre-K student. It was a fun way for him to experience a variety of sports without having to complete a full season. It was held on his campus after school so he was able to stay at school to attend Sportball and it was a huge relief for us as parents to not have one more stop to make before heading home for the evening. We will be signing up again in the fall, as well as attending the summer camps! Definitely recommend!
Melanie Gartman
Sportball has been great for our toddler! I love that it gets him used to listening to another adult and following their instructions, plus he gets to run around and play all the different ball sports he loves. Its a great intro to sports for toddlers!
Jenna Woods
This was our first year at school. Our daughter absolutely loved this program at Lake Travis UMC Preschool. Coach JR and the whole team always made it fun and engaging for every age. It was so neat to witness her learning as she would come out each week excitedly telling us what new games they played and new skills they learned. We noticed a remarkable difference in her sportsmanship and turn taking as well. When we first started we thought this was a program connected to the school but eagerly signed up once we heard it wasn’t just after school daycare and was a culmination of multi sport lessons. They’ve been at her preschool for something like over a decade (more?? I’m not sure I just remember it was a really long time) and the staff all sang praises over the program so we tried it. My favorite memory had to have been during a soccer game for her team at HCI (not through school). They were practicing drills and all of a sudden our girl starts effortlessly busting out skills we had never seen. Stopping the ball with one foot while dribbling, spinning 360 and it made us smile. Not only did she have fun and come home physically tired (parent win) but she was always happy and in a great mood. If you’re on the fence about joining the sportball program at your school this is your sign to make it happen! All of her friends loved sportball day and we think you will too. Thanks team! We haven’t don’t a summer camp but we’ve heard from some friends they are incredibly fun!
How to reach Sportball Austin
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Website: None
Why Sportball Austin may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sportball Austin with your friends?
When seeking a fantastic place to gather and enjoy quality time with friends or family, Sportball Austin stands out as an exceptional choice. With an impeccable 5.0-star rating based on over 60 glowing reviews, it combines the ideal blend of fun, physical activity, and social engagement. The vibrant atmosphere and expertly coached sessions make it more than just a sports program—it is a lively community hub where kids and families come together to learn, play, and build confidence. The facility is designed to cater to young children and their developmental needs, making everyone feel welcome and included. Whether you’re looking to bond over shared activities, keep active, or just enjoy a lively, friendly environment, Sportball Austin offers an experience that naturally encourages connection and joy. The coaches are praised for their professionalism, kindness, and ability to motivate even the shyest participants. For a group outing that mixes play with skill-building, Sportball Austin is a perfect rallying point—especially for families wanting experiences that are engaging, inclusive, and memorable.
What activities are available at Sportball Austin?
Sportball Austin offers a diverse range of multi-sport programs tailored to children of different ages and skill levels, making it an ideal place for kids to explore various sports in a fun, pressure-free environment. Some of the core activities include soccer, t-ball, basketball, and other developmental sports games that emphasize fundamental motor skills and teamwork. The programs focus on age-appropriate exercises that help children not only develop physical skills but also confidence and social abilities. Each session is led by highly trained coaches who incorporate games and activities designed to hold children's attention and make learning enjoyable. The smaller group sizes allow for personalized attention, ensuring every child is engaged and learning at their own pace. This structure is perfect for groups, as children can participate together, fostering camaraderie and cooperation among friends. Sportball’s commitment to encouraging participation without pressure creates an inviting environment where kids can thrive while having fun.
Why is Sportball Austin perfect for a group meetup?
Sportball Austin is uniquely suited for group meetups because of its inclusive and supportive environment, which encourages teamwork, communication, and friendship building. Parents appreciate the relaxed yet organized setup, knowing their children are in a safe place where coaches prioritize fun alongside skill development. The sessions are scheduled to maximize convenience for families, often with weekend or after-school times that allow groups to plan social meetups around their calendars. Additionally, the structure of the activities encourages interaction not only between players but also among parents and caregivers, making it a social space for the entire family. The coaches are personable and readily engage with children and parents alike, creating a welcoming community atmosphere that extends beyond the sport itself. The mix of physical activity and group-based games means every participant is involved actively, providing plenty of shared experiences that can strengthen group bonds and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a birthday, playdate, or casual gathering, Sportball Austin transforms a simple meetup into a dynamic and enjoyable event that appeals to kids and adults alike.
What do parents and participants say about Sportball Austin?
Feedback from families who frequent Sportball Austin consistently highlights the high quality of coaching and the positive impact on their children’s physical and social development. Many parents praise the friendly, skilled coaches like Coach Dan, Coach Sandry, and Coach Peter, who know how to engage kids with kindness and genuine enthusiasm. Testimonials remark on the ease of communication, the program’s flexibility, and the strong focus on making sure every child feels included regardless of their experience or personality. Parents repeatedly mention their kids’ excitement for returning season after season, noting that the program instills a true love for sports. The approach to teaching—balanced with humor, professionalism, and nurturing confidence—helps children feel empowered rather than pressured. Furthermore, families appreciate the small group sizes that allow for more personalized attention and better learning outcomes. The overwhelmingly positive reviews affirm that Sportball Austin not only teaches valuable physical skills but also fosters important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience.
How does Sportball Austin support child development through sports?
Sportball Austin is dedicated to more than just teaching sports; it embraces a holistic approach to child development by fostering physical literacy, confidence, and social skills. The programs emphasize foundational movement skills—such as running, jumping, throwing, and catching—which are critical for kids’ overall motor development and lifelong physical activity. Coaches implement age-appropriate challenges that gently push children to explore new skills at a comfortable pace, making progress enjoyable and sustainable. The multi-sport format ensures that children aren’t pigeonholed into a single sport too early, encouraging broad athletic development and preventing burnout. Social aspects of the sessions teach children to cooperate, take turns, and communicate effectively with peers and adults. Parents find this approach beneficial as their children come away with a sense of accomplishment, better emotional regulation, and a solid foundation for future athletic endeavors. Plus, the supportive and nurturing coaching style helps children develop resilience and a positive attitude toward challenges, which extends beyond sports into everyday life.
What makes the coaching experience at Sportball Austin exceptional?
Sportball Austin’s coaching team is highly regarded for their expertise, warmth, and ability to connect with children of all temperaments and abilities. Coaches are trained not only in sports skills but also in child development principles, allowing them to tailor activities that fit the individual needs of each child. Several parent reviews mention coaches by name, noting their patience, sense of humor, and friendly encouragement. This personal touch helps children feel valued and confident, which significantly enhances their learning experience. Coaches also use games and playful competition to motivate kids, making sure sessions stay dynamic and engaging without creating pressure or anxiety. Such an environment is conducive to learning and fun, making Sportball Austin a favorite destination for regular participation. The consistency of positive coaching experiences ensures that kids and their families commit season after season, knowing they will receive quality guidance and a welcoming atmosphere each time they attend.
How does Sportball Austin create a community atmosphere?
More than just a place to play sports, Sportball Austin fosters a strong sense of community among families and kids alike. The structure of small groups, ongoing seasons, and repeat attendance creates opportunities for participants to build friendships and social networks over time. Events and classes encourage interaction not only on the field but also among parents who often share insights, tips, and support. Many parents highlight the relaxed yet organized environment that allows everyone to feel comfortable and included, whether their child is outgoing or shy. Communication from staff is clear and thoughtful, making it easy for families to stay informed and involved. This community feel extends beyond weekly sessions to summer camps and other special events, promoting a continuous connection between participants. The positive group dynamics and shared experiences make Sportball Austin much more than a sports venue—it’s a vital local hub where lasting relationships form and memories are made.
What are the logistics and practical benefits of visiting Sportball Austin?
Sportball Austin is conveniently located and offers flexible scheduling options that accommodate busy family lives. Sessions include weekend morning classes, after-school programs, and summer camps, allowing groups to find times that work best for them. The size of groups is intentionally kept small to maximize learning and interaction, which also means a more personal and less crowded experience. The registration process is straightforward, and communication about schedules and any updates is prompt and clear, making it easy for families to plan ahead. Facilities are safe, well-maintained, and designed with young children in mind, highlighting Sportball Austin’s commitment to providing a high-quality environment. This attention to detail ensures that parents and caregivers feel at ease when arranging group meetups or enrolling their kids for longer periods. Accessibility, excellent coaching, and a welcoming atmosphere combine to make Sportball Austin a smart and convenient choice for families looking to promote their children’s active lifestyles in a supportive setting.
Why choose Sportball Austin over other kid sports programs?
Sportball Austin distinguishes itself through its superior coaching, family-orientation, and holistic approach to child development in sports. Unlike programs that focus narrowly on competition or a single sport from an early age, Sportball offers a varied multi-sport curriculum that builds a broad athletic foundation while emphasizing fun and confidence. The overwhelmingly positive reviews reflect consistent satisfaction with both the quality of instruction and the community environment. Families appreciate that the program supports every child’s unique personality, whether they are naturally competitive, hesitant, or somewhere in between. The emphasis on smaller class sizes enables more direct coach interaction, facilitating personalized support and progress. Additionally, the firm but friendly coaching approach fosters not just athletic skills but essential life skills like teamwork, communication, and resilience. The convenience of scheduling and smooth operational experience further reinforce Sportball Austin’s status as a top-tier choice for parents seeking enriching and enjoyable sports experiences for their children.
What special events or programs does Sportball Austin offer for groups?
Beyond regular sessions, Sportball Austin hosts summer camps and seasonal programs that provide extended opportunities for group participation and more immersive sports experiences. These camps typically combine multiple sports and activities, keeping kids active and entertained throughout the day while learning new skills and making friends. Special events are designed to build team spirit and create lasting memories for kids and their families. The smaller groups and attentive coaches ensure personalized interaction even in these more extended formats. Parents laud these programs for their ability to provide structured yet playful environments where children gain confidence and social skills in a variety of settings. These seasonal options are ideal for families who want to deepen their involvement or celebrate special occasions with a sporty twist. Through these events, Sportball Austin emphasizes community involvement, inclusivity, and ongoing development, ensuring every child has opportunities to grow and connect all year round.