Elka Whalan
Swimming
Before competing at two Olympic Games and standing on international podiums, Olympian Elka Whalan was a four-year-old eager to jump into the pool.
Learn moreStart Your Story Here
Every champion starts with a first step
Inspired by the Games? Help your child discover the sport they'll love with 2 FREE classes at the Y NSW.
PLUS Enrol between 24 July and 23 August 2026 for your chance to win incredible sporting prizes and exclusive athlete experiences.*
Every champion starts as a beginner
As the Games get the whole country talking sport, it's the perfect time to get your children into it too. Y NSW centres across the state are running Learn to Play programs, Children’s swimming lessons, KinderGym and Recreational Gymnastics as well as Junior Basketball Academy Skills classes - designed for every age and stage, built by coaches, backed by 170+ years of getting communities moving.
FIND THEIR SPORT
Not sure where to start?
Every child is different.
Some love to tumble. Some love the water. Others thrive in team sports.
Take our quick Sport Finder Quiz to discover which Y NSW program best matches your child's personality, interests and strengths.
Children's Programs Across Our Y Network
Find the perfect program for your child and enrol today to get 2 FREE classes.
Learn to Play
Whether your child is trying a team sport for the first time or ready to build their skills, Learn to Play provides a fun and supportive place to get started. Explore a range of sports, including Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball and Netball, while building confidence, teamwork and a love of being active.
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Gymnastics
Every gymnast starts somewhere. From Kindergym through to recreational gymnastics, our programs help children grow in confidence while developing skills, strength and a lifelong love of movement. Come and explore Gymnastics with confidence.
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Children's Swimming Classes
Every swimmer starts somewhere. From babies as young as 6 months through to advanced stroke development, our nationally accredited instructors help children gain confidence, develop essential swimming skills and stay safe in and around the water.
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Junior Basketball Academy Skills Classes
The Y NSW JBA weekend skills classes provide personalised guidance in a fun, supportive environment, focusing on technique, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Learn moreTake the First Step. Win Something Extraordinary.
What if your child's first step led to something extraordinary?
Enrol between 24th July – 23rd August 2026 to go in the draw to win your choice of amazing sporting prizes, family experiences and exclusive opportunities!
Prizes include:
WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS
Win one of multiple Western Sydney Wanderers experiences, from premium VIP match day hospitality to family passes to a home game of your choice.*
NSW SWIFTS
From signed merchandise to unforgettable match day experiences, you could score one of several incredible NSW Swifts prizes, including family game tickets and exclusive team memorabilia.
SYDNEY FC
Get closer to the action with a premium Sydney FC Tunnel Club experience, including four tickets, food and beverages, and exclusive access to the players’ tunnel.
You could also win four general admission tickets to a Sydney FC home match of your choice.*
PROFESSIONAL PRIVATE COACHING
Train one-on-one with some of Australia's sporting greats.
- Private Basketball Coaching Session with former Sydney Kings captain Ben Madgen
- Private Gymnastics Coaching Session with Australian Olympian Emma Nedov
- Private Swimming Coaching Session with two-time Australian Olympian Elka Whalan
Plus more exciting prizes to be announced!
Download a copy of the prizes poster
*Terms, conditions and exclusions apply.
Meet the athletes leading the story
Also go in the draw to win once-in-a-lifetime coaching experiences with some of Australia's most inspiring athletes.
Ben Madgen
Basketball
Before becoming a Sydney Kings captain and Australian representative, Ben Madgen's basketball journey began in Williamstown, South Australia.
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Emma Nedov
Gymnastics
Long before representing Australia at the Olympics, Emma Nedov was a young gymnast discovering her love of the sport at the Y Epping.
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