FLINT, MI - For the first time in 15 years, city-organized youth basketball is back in Flint.

Beginning in January, children ages 8 through 17 will have the opportunity to hoop on an organized team through Flint's new city-wide basketball league.

Sean Croudy, Flint's newly-named director of community recreation, said that his hopes for the league extend beyond building basketball skills in the city's youth.

"Everyone's pumped up. Flint's a mecca for basketball, so everybody's excited," Croudy said. "But it's more than that. We're hoping the kids build teamwork, self-esteem, and we'll have speakers during events. It's more than just basketball - it'll be a lot of learning opportunities."

Registration for the free youth basketball league will be open Tuesday, Dec. 19 through Thursday, Dec. 21 at the Cathedral of Faith from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. in Flint.

With weekly Saturday games from January 6 through March 10, the league is shooting to develop four age divisions with eight teams per grouping.

Younger children will play at the Eagle's Nest Academy and older teens will hoop at the Cathedral of Faith.

The basketball league is open to boys and girls grades 3 through 12 across Genesee County, said Cathedral of Faith Pastor Christopher Martin.

The addition of the city's new program is especially appreciated on the north end of Flint, said Mayor Karen Weaver.

"One of the things we've talked about was making sure we're doing more activities and especially on the north end, so this is very exciting," Weaver said. "The other thing is you're making friendships and getting social skills and physical fitness, and hopefully it will be a chance for these parents to bond as well."

Partnering with CMB Basketball, league games will currently be played at the Eagle's Nest Academy and Cathedral of Faith, but Croudy said that the program hopes to expand to other locations across the city.

Those with additional questions or looking to become involved with the Flint city-wide basketball league should contact Croudy at 810-449-6380.