History

Knox Youth Sports, Inc. (“KYS”) was chartered in 1986 and initially carried on the management operations for the Sequoyah Youth Baseball Program. The corporation was the successor to the Sequoyah Youth Baseball Leagues which began in 1956. 

KYS was originally called the “Sequoyah Recreation Commission, Inc.” and operated the baseball program at the Sequoyah Ball Fields on Cherokee Boulevard for boys and girls from four through twelve years of age. The participants lived primarily in the Sequoyah and Bearden areas of Knoxville, and all activities were done exclusively by volunteers. The program was authorized by the Department of Parks & Recreation of the City of Knoxville. 

In 1990, the corporation decided to expand its operations and become involved with more team sports, thereby allowing youngsters from a larger area (still primarily in West Knoxville) to participate. Due to the operation's growth, a decision was made to become a full-time endeavor and operate year-round as a non-profit business. The corporation officially changed its name to “Knox Youth Sports, Inc.” 

In the early 1990s, Knox Youth Sports entered into a management agreement with the City of Knoxville, which led to the construction of four-ball fields at Lakeshore Park. As a result, KYS found its permanent home at Lakeshore Park. While continuing to use the baseball fields at Sequoyah Hills Park, Lakeshore Park now hosts Flag Football, Baseball, Softball, and our newest sport that we are excited about, Lacrosse. Basketball is played at several gyms located in the West Knoxville/Bearden area.