In a city that proudly embraces its connection with the outdoors, it should come as no surprise that Menlo Park, California recreation includes everything from neighborhood parks and rec centers to sports camps and local sports teams. Menlo Park sports are often a community effort. Participation is encouraged. A fun time for all is expected.
Menlo Park Sports
Soccer
Nine of Menlo Park's 14 parks have a soccer field, attesting to the popularity of the sport here. The Menlo Atherton Adult Women's Soccer League (MAASL) is a non-profit league especially for women 23 years of age and older. All ability levels are welcome with focus on having fun while staying fit. The league plays for two seasons: March through June and September through November. Games are held at Willow Oaks and Burgess parks on Saturdays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
Baseball
Baseball has been the national pastime since the late 1800s. There are certainly plenty of opportunities to play ball in Menlo Park. The Menlo Atherton Little League plays games at four local parks. There are plenty of other local baseball teams that gladly welcome players of all ages and skill levels.
Youth Sports
Menlo Park Youth Sports provides more than just an opportunity to play and participate. Programs include education, instruction and other skills learned from playing organized sports. Programs are available for boys and girls spanning everything from baseball and volleyball to basketball and flag football. The programs are available through local schools and organizations.
Basketball
• Hi-Five Little Ballers - Basketball classes are open to boys and girls from ages three to five. The eight-week program takes place in January, April and September. Baskets and balls are especially adjusted to match the age of the players. The focus is on teamwork and learning the skills necessary to play the game.
• Hi-Five Hoops League - A similar program geared towards kindergarten through 2nd grade offered once a week starting in January. Teams are based on the schools the kids attend. Classes culminate with a fun playoff game.
• Hot Shots Class - The focus is on basic skills, with games and equipment adjusted based on age and skill level.
• Arrillaga Youth Basketball League - Aimed at 3rd through 7th grade boys and girls, this program involves tryouts through local schools.
Football
• Hi-Five NFL Flag Football League - This seven-week program is geared toward kindergarten through fifth graders. The goal is developing the basic fundamentals of the game while learning how to play as a team.
• Pee Wee Football - This eight week program takes place on Fridays in the fall at the Onetta Harris Community Center. Games are played at Kelly Park.
Volleyball
• Girls Volleyball League - Starting in September, girls in grades 4-8 can play in a league linked to area schools.
Menlo Park, CA Outdoor Activities
Sports Camps
• Hi-Five Sports Camp - Experienced local coaches and athletes offer instruction to kids in kindergarten through eighth grade. Groups are separated by age.
Baseball Camps
Menlo Atherton baseball coach Tim Bowler heads up camps at the Burgess Park fields. Activities include simulations and individual coaching. The camp takes place at the Arrillaga Family Gym.
Volleyball Camps
Camps focus on basic skills such as setting and serving. The camp, for girls 9-12, takes place at the Arrillaga Family Gym.
Tennis
Tennis courts can be found throughout Menlo Park. Keys are needed for access to the public courts in Menlo Park. The keys are valid from January 15th through January 14th of the following year. Residents pay $50 per year to use the courts. Non-residents pay $100. Keys are available at the Arrillaga Family Gymnasium. For additional information, please contact the Menlo Park Community Services Department at 330-2200.
Tennis Courts in Menlo Park
• Burgess Park - Laurel Street (2 lighted courts)
• La Entrada School - Sharon Road (2 courts)
• Willow Oaks Park - Willow Road (4 lighted courts)
• Nealon Park - Middle Avenue (5 lighted courts)
