Players, ranging in age from 6 to 18 and representing 18 full teams, joined the 3-to-5-year-old “Little Dribblers” program participants for the winter basketball league’s opening ceremonies at the Bainbridge-Decatur County YMCA on Saturday, Jan. 12.

Following the presentation of the colors by the Bainbridge High School Air Force Junior ROTC color guard team of Zach Toole, Dexter Lagace, Zenil Patel and Gabe Cofer, the invocation by Bainbridge First Baptist Church pastor Rev. Paul Medley and the pledge of allegiance, YMCA sports director Jim Holton addressed the players, coaches and parents.

“The turnout today is great and we are looking forward to a competitive season during which the players will play hard and exercise good sportsmanship,” Holton said.

“A strict code of conduct, which coaches, players and parents are required to sign, will insure a fun game atmosphere.”

The season will end the second week of March with the Kirbo Youth Basketball Classic, which will determine winners in each age group. The Classic is named for Cass Kirbo and her husband, Bruce, who are long time supporters of the YMCA.