While cruising through Cincinnati on a beautiful spring day, I found myself wandering off the beaten path—and I’m so glad I did. Tucked away on Seymour Avenue is a facility that caught my eye: the Cincinnati Reds Youth Academy. I had no idea I was about to stumble across something so inspiring and impactful right in the heart of the city.
As someone who loves to explore local spots that make a difference, this place instantly stood out. The bright red signage, well-kept fields, and vibrant energy were impossible to ignore. Curiosity got the best of me, so I parked and took a moment to learn more—and wow, was I blown away.
What Is the Reds Youth Academy?
Officially known as the P&G MLB Cincinnati Reds Youth Academy, this facility is more than just a place for baseball and softball. It’s a year-round hub for youth development that offers free training, education support, and character-building programs for kids and teens across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Open to boys and girls ages 4 to 18, the Academy provides opportunities to grow both on and off the field.
One of the highlights is the Joey Votto Training Center, a massive 33,000-square-foot indoor facility equipped with batting cages, a full-sized synthetic turf infield, and a strength and conditioning area. Outside, there are four beautiful fields where players train, compete, and have fun.
Community at Its Core
What makes the Academy special isn’t just the professional-grade facilities—it’s the heart behind it. Programs like the Reds Rookie Success League focus on teaching kids not only the fundamentals of the game, but also lessons in teamwork, leadership, and respect. It’s a space where dreams take root, friendships form, and young people build confidence in every swing, pitch, and play.
They also celebrate the success of their student-athletes. Each year, the Signing Day ceremony honors those who’ve earned spots on college teams—a proud moment for both families and the community.
Want to Get Involved?
If you’re local to the Cincinnati area—or even just passing through like I was—and you’re passionate about sports, youth, or community development, there are several ways you can support the Academy:
- Volunteer your time at clinics and community events
- Donate to help keep the programs free for families
- Spread the word to families who might benefit from their offerings
You can find everything you need, from program details to sign-up forms and ways to give back, by visiting the official Reds Youth Academy website or reaching out directly at RedsYouthAcademy@reds.com.
