YDU Leads Two Winter Clubs at Toby Farms

After running a successful autumn soccer club, Youth Development United was delighted to accept two additional club leadership positions as part of its partnership with Toby Farms Intermediate School in the Chester Upland School District.

YDU Program Manager Raina Kuzemka is leading the school’s Basketball Club. Having played varsity basketball throughout high school, Raina was excited to coach the eager middle schoolers. “The kids are skilled and show a love of basketball, jumping quickly into new drills and skills,” she reported.

YDU has also helped establish another club in the winter cycle at Toby Farms: the Martial Arts Club. YDU volunteer Brian Murray is spearheading this group, which he says has been a lot of fun so far. The kids received hand wraps, and are learning basic martial arts concepts such as dance steps, a stepping front kick, and a hook, as well as the “conceptual physics” that will help improve their physicality.

Youth Development United is proud to be in partnership with Toby Farms to help improve student attendance and healthy habits while providing opportunities for physical activity and skillbuilding through the club initiative.

These innovative clubs help students not only motivate to attend school, but also improve their performance in the classroom and beyond. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports "Physical activity can help you think, learn, problem-solve, and enjoy an emotional balance. It can improve memory and reduce anxiety or depression."

Kudos to Principal Stephanie Donofry for leading this all-around beneficial initiative.