Youth Programs (ages 11 to 17)

Youth programming is intended for youth ages 11 to 17.

Youth Memberships cost only $5.00 per year! YOUth can gain access to youth lounges, Open Gym Drop-in, discounted registered programs and more.  Find details at www.Brantford.ca/YouthMemberships.

Events for YOUth

Youth Skate Night - Friday, February 13, 2026
On Friday, February 13, 2026, join Brantford Youth Council and the Town and Gown Committee for a night of skating from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Harmony Square (89 Dalhousie Street). There will be music, mascots, and lots of fun!

Free skates are available from Free Sport for Growth and skating aids will be available for new skaters. Helmets and weather appropriate dress are highly recommended. This event is geared for those aged 12 to 25, however everyone is welcome. 

Woodman After Dark (ages 11 to 17)

YOUth can enjoy Open Gym using a variety of sports equipment in the gymnasium, video games and playing pool in the WLounge, free snacks, karaoke, and more. This program is offered from 3:00 p.m to 11:00 p.m. Youth must drop-in before 8:00 p.m. and re-entry is not allowed. 

  • Friday, February 20, 2026

Cost is free for youth members, or $3.50 for non-members. Registration is not required.

Drop-in Programs for YOUth members (ages 11 to 17)

You must have a Youth Membership to participate in the following drop-in programming. Youth Memberships cost $5 per year.

W Lounge 

You'll definitely want to hang out in our youth only WLounge. Members can drop-in and use our gaming systems, board games, pool table and more. Learn more about memberships for YOUth for only $5 per year.

WLounge hours:

  • Monday to Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Open Gym 

Open Gym gives you access to the Woodman gymnasium to use a variety of our sports equipment. Learn more about memberships for YOUth for only $5 per year.

Drop-in Gym hours:

  • Monday and Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Art Room

Drop-in to the art room to express yourself with arts and crafts activities. Learn more about memberships for YOUth for only $5 per year.

  • Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Badminton 

All skills welcome for recreational play. Learn more about memberships for YOUth for only $5 per year.

  • Thursdays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Basketball 

All skills welcome for recreational play. Indoor shoes are recommended. Learn more about memberships for YOUth for only $5 per year.

  • Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Pickleball 

All skills welcome for recreational play. Indoor shoes are recommended. Learn more about memberships for YOUth for only $5 per year.

  • Tuesdays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Games Night 

Drop-in to Woodman’s board game room, play some games and hang with friends. Learn more about memberships for YOUth for only $5 per year.

  • Tuesdays from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Karaoke

Open mic karaoke every Friday at Woodman. Learn more about memberships for YOUth for only $5 per year.

  • Fridays from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Drop in Sports

Drop-in for Sport specific games in the gymnasium. Learn more about memberships for YOUth for only $5 per year.

  • Basketball on Monday, and Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

  • Pickleball on Tuesday from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

  • Badminton on Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Drop-in Programs for YOUth 

Drop-in Gym Sports (ages 13 and over)
Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street

Drop in to the gymnasium and enjoy a wide variety of sports. Sports include; badminton, basketball, pickleball and Volleyball. Find current schedules online at calendar.waynegretzkysportscentre.ca/GymnasiumSchedules.

Registered Programs for YOUth

Register online for 2025/26 fall and winter programs at www.Brantford.ca/ACTIVEnet.

Check Mates (ages 6+)

Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street
This program will help you understand the game of chess at your own pace. With easy lessons, practice puzzles, and the chance to play against friends, it's the perfect start for beginners of any age. Dive in and start enjoying the timeless game of chess today!

  • Mondays from November 3 to December 15, 2025, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., $38.50 (activity number 26730)
  • Mondays from January 5 to February 23, 2026, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., $40.25 (activity number 26763)
  • Mondays from March 2 to April 20, 2026, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., $40.25 (activity number 26764)

Register online

Try Blind Sports! (ages 6+)

Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street
A unique eight-week recreational program designed to give an experience into four different blind sports in a fun and supportive environment. This program is open to individuals of all ages who are blind/have vision loss as well as those with vision. Over the course of eight weeks, participants will be guided by trained coaches and staff to try goal ball, soccer, boxing, and judo. This program will allow athletes to learn foundational skills, build confidence and experience the joy of movement in a team setting. This program aims to foster a love of sport, promote physical fitness, and help athletes connect with the blind sports community.

  • Wednesday, October 15, 2025 (Soccer) 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., $8.75 (activity number 25450)
  • Wednesday, October 22, 2025 (Boxing) 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., $8.75 (activity number 25451)

Register online

Eliza Bell's Art Studio (ages 8 to 12)

Location: Bell Homestead National Historic Site, 94 Tutela Heights Road

Did you know that Dr.Alexander Graham Bell's mother was an artist? In this program we will share the basics of drawing with you and give you a closer look into Mrs. Eliza Bell's artwork. Materials will be provided. There is no program on March 18, 2026. 

  • Wednesdays from October 1 to November 19, 2025, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., cost $120.00 (activity number 26906)
  • Wednesdays from February 4 to April 1, 2026, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., cost $120.00 (activity number 26907)

Register online

Red Cross Stay Safe (ages 9 to 13)

This Red Cross safety program will help you gain confidence and independence with real world scenarios and hands on learning you will learn to stay safe! Hot dogs will be available to purchase for lunch or your can bring your own nut-free lunch.

  • Friday April 17, 2026, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., $50.00 (activity number 26836)

Register online

Cook up a Storm (ages 11 to 15)

Location: Woodman Park Community Centre, 491 Grey Street

Cooking from snacks to meals, invite a guest to the final pop-up restaurant night. 

  • October 15 to November 19, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
    • $65 for Youth Members (activity number 26846)
    • $70 for Non-Members (activity number 26847)
  • October 16 to November 20, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
    • $65 for Youth Members (activity number 26848)
    • $70 for Non-Members (activity number 26849)
  • January 21 to February 25, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
    • $65 Youth Members (activity number 26850)
    • $70 Non-Members (activity number 256851)
  • January 22 to February 26, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
    • $65 Youth Members (activity number 26852)
    • $70 Non-Members (activity number 256853)
Register online
Red Cross Babysitting Program (ages 11 to 14 )

Location: Woodman Park Community Centre (491 Grey Street)
If you are looking to become a babysitter, we can teach you helpful skills or taking care of children and babies and how to make babysitting safe and enjoyable for everyone.

  • Monday January 19 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., (activity number 25643)

$60.00 for Youth Members, $70.00 for non-members 

Register online

Babysitting Course (ages 12 to 15)
Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street

You will learn skills for taking care of children and babies and fun ways to make babysitting safe and enjoyable for everyone. This is a Canada Safety Council course.

  • November 29, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., $112.88 (activity number 26726)
  • February 28, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., $115.63 (activity number 26760)

Register online

Youth Leadership Development Level 1 (ages 13 to 16)

Location: Woodman Park Community Centre (491 Grey Street)

In this level one leader-in-training program, your first week includes in-class training, followed by a 30-hour placement at a City of Brantford Day Camp to show off your new skills. 

  • March 16 to 20, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m, $180.00 per person, (activity number 26832)

Register online

Fit Factory-Small Group Training (ages 13+)

Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street

This small-group training program will have you crushing workouts alongside others who are motivated to make changes, just like you! Our certified trainers deliver individualized programs that meet you where you are and can help take you where you want to go. There is no class on March 17 and March 19, 2026.

  • Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m., cost $78.07 for seven weeks
    • November 4 to December 16, 2025 (activity number 26790)
  • Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m., cost $78.07 for seven weeks
    • November 6 to December 18, 2025 (activity number 26792)
  • Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m., cost $79.65 for seven weeks
    • January 6 to February 17, 2026 (activity number 26817)
    • March 3 to April 21, 2026 (activity number 26818) 
  • Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m., cost $79.65 for seven weeks
    • January 8 to February 19, 2026 (activity number 26887)
    • March 5 to April 23, 2026 (activity number 26888)

Registration begins on Monday, August 25, 2025.

Register online

Strength Training Fundamentals (ages 13+)

Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street

If you are new to strength training or just looking for ways to change up your routine, this small group program is for you. Our certified Personal Trainers will guide you through movement fundaments, teach you different exercise techniques and educate you on program design. Once you have completed this program, you will feel comfortable and confident in any gym or weight room. There is no class on February 16, March 16 and March 18, 2026.

  • Mondays from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., cost $91.68 for seven weeks
    • November 3 to December 15, 2025 (activity number 26806)
  • Wednesdays from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., cost $91.68 for seven weeks
    • November 5 to December 17, 2025 (activity number 26808)
  • Mondays from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., cost $93.50 for seven weeks
    • January 5 to February 23, 2026 (activity number 26825)
    • March 2 to April 20, 2026 (activity number 26826)
  • Wednesdays from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., cost $93.50 for seven weeks
    • January 7 to February 18, 2026 (activity number 26895)
    • March 4 to April 22, 2026 (activity number 26896) 

Registration begins on Monday, August 25, 2025.

Register online

Introduction to Taoist Tai Chi® (ages 13+)

Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street

Join us for Taoist Tai Chi® with the Fung Loy Kok Institute of Taoism, a gentle and relaxing way to move your body and calm your mind. Practicing the Taoist Tai Chi arts® contributes to better balance and posture, increased strength and flexibility and improved circulation. This program is great for all ages and no experience is needed. There is no class on February 16 and March 16, 2026.

  • Mondays from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., cost $73.31 for seven weeks
    • November 3 to December 15, 2025 (activity number 26814)
    • January 5 to February 23, 2026 (activity number 268293)
    • March 2 to April 20, 2026 (activity number 26899)

Registration begins on Monday, August 25, 2025.

Register online

Adult Triathlon Swim Level 1 (ages 15+)

Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street

If you are interested in triathlons but not sure where to start, this beginner program is for you. You will learn good swim technique, practice drills and build your endurance. To join this program you should be able to complete a 25m swim with your face in the water. There is no class on February 16, and March 16, 2026.

  • Mondays from 7:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., cost $78.07 for seven weeks
    • November 3 to December 15, 2025 (activity number 26786)
  • Mondays from 7:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., cost $79.65 for seven weeks
    • January 5 to February 23, 2026 (activity number 26815)
    • March 2 to April 20, 2026 (activity number 26885)

Registration begins on Monday, August 25, 2025.

Register online

Adult Triathlon Swim Level 2 (ages 15+)

Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street

If you have past swimming or triathlon experience this program will work on your technique and challenge you with speed drills and different strokes. It is a great workout for competitive triathletes as well as people who would like to stay fit and active. There is no class on February 16, and March 16, 2026.

  • Mondays from 7:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., cost $91.68 for seven weeks
    • November 3 to December 15, 2025 (activity number 26788)
  • Mondays from 7:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., cost $93.50 for seven weeks
    • January 5 to February 23, 2026 (activity number 26816)
    • March 2 to April 20, 2026 (activity number 26886)

Registration begins on Monday, August 25, 2025.

Register online

Learn Ukulele (ages 16 to 24)

Location: Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, 254 North Park Street

Ready to make music and have some fun? This relaxed and friendly program is designed for adults who want to learn the ukulele or build on the skills they already have.

  • Level 1 is for beginners. You’ll learn how to hold your ukulele, basic strumming patterns, and simple chords so you can start playing songs right away.
  • Level 2 is for those with a bit of experience who want to grow their skills. We’ll focus on smoother chord changes, rhythm, and learning new songs.
  • Level 3 is a casual jam session for confident players. Bring your favorite songs and enjoy playing together in a fun, social setting. This level is less instructional and more about making music as a group.

Bring your own ukulele and a willingness to learn. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your playing further, you’ll leave each session with new skills and a sense of accomplishment. An option to purchase a ukulele through the course is available.

Level 1 sessions:

  • Tuesdays from October 28 to December 16, 2025, 7:15 p.m. 8:15 p.m., $$91.68 (activity number 26721)
  • Tuesdays from January 6 to February 17, 2026, 7:15 p.m. 8:15 p.m., $$93.50 (activity number 26752)
  • Tuesdays from March 3 to April 21, 2026, 7:15 p.m. 8:15 p.m., $$93.50 (activity number 26753)

Level 2 sessions:

  • Tuesdays from October 28 to December 16, 2025, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., $91.68 (activity number 26722)
  • Tuesdays from January 6 to February 17, 2026, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., $$93.50 (activity number 26754)
  • Tuesdays from March 3 to April 21, 2026, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., $$93.50 (activity number 26755)

Level 3 sessions:

  • Wednesdays from January 7 to February 18, 2026, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., $$93.50 (activity number 26756)
  • Wednesdays from March 4 to April 22, 2026, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., $$93.50 (activity number 26757)

Register online