Get your young athlete moving, learning, and having fun this spring with the YMCA Youth Track & Field program! Whether they’re brand new to sports or already love to run, this program builds confidence, coordination, and foundational skills in a supportive, high-energy environment.
Program Details
Location: Folsom Lake College – Track & Field Facility
MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON!
Ages 2–5: Movement & Play-Based Track
Kids learn through play! This group focuses on coordination, balance, and basic movement skills through fun games and exploration.
Ages 6–9: Track & Field Fundamentals
Participants are introduced to proper running, jumping, and throwing techniques in an encouraging and age-appropriate setting.
What to Expect
YMCA Youth Track & Field keeps kids active, learning, and having fun! Sessions focus on building skills in running, jumping, and throwing through high-energy activities, positive coaching, and a supportive environment. Kids gain confidence, develop coordination, and discover a love for movement.
The season wraps up with our inaugural YMCA Youth Track Meet at Folsom Lake College. This introductory meet lets kids showcase their progress in a fun, low-pressure setting. Participants can choose up to three events. Registration for the track meet is included with the full season or available separately for $25.
Please note:
- Introductory-level experience, perfect for first-time competitors
- No automatic timing systems
- Event options are limited based on equipment
- Not USATF sanctioned
Meet the Coaches
Josh Priester
Program Founder | YMCA COO | Lead Coach
With nearly 20 years of coaching experience, Josh brings elite-level expertise to athletes of all ages and abilities, from beginners to Olympians.
Highlights:
- Dad to an active 2 year old
- Collegiate coaching experience at multiple universities
- Founder & Head Coach, Santa Barbara Track Club
- Coached athletes to the Olympic Games (Rio 2016 & Tokyo 2020)
- Experience across youth, collegiate, professional, and Paralympic levels
- Former Executive Director, Big Sur International Marathon
Nicole Priester
Nicole combines high-level athletic experience with a deep understanding of youth development.
Highlights:
- Mom to an active 2 year old
- Competed at Oregon State University (Cross Country & Track)
- All-Pac-10 performer
- Former collegiate coach
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Nicole brings a thoughtful, supportive approach, helping kids build confidence, resilience, and a positive relationship with sports.
Ian Bamsey
Ian spent over a decade competing in Track & Field, starting as a sprinter and later as a decathlete at American River College. He competed at the national level in both high school and college, as well as playing football, and wrestling.
After college, Ian continued training through weightlifting and currently competes in powerlifting. He is passionate about introducing kids to Track & Field and helping them build confidence, skills, and a lifelong love of being active.