Matthews Athletic & Recreation Association (MARA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit youth sports recreation association established in 1956. Based at Arthur Goodman Memorial Park in Matthews, MARA offers the following sports: baseball, softball, tackle & flag football, cheer and basketball. MARA also offers Bambino Buddy-Ball for young athletes living with special needs.
MARA is a volunteer organization that provides a fun environment, quality facilities, expert instruction, and the highest level of coaching to ensure every child has an enjoyable learning experience with the opportunity to reach their full potential. MARA has been a home for countless young athletes, fostering teamwork, leadership, and a lifelong love for sports.
There are over 1500 baseball, softball, and football games played each year at MARA; this includes high school games, recreation, travel and challenge games for both baseball and softball, as well as numerous football competitions. In 2023, MARA had over 2200 players registered to play across our leagues.
MARA Sponsors play a tremendous role in our ability to provide a quality, affordable, safe, and FUN youth sports program for all of our youth. If you are interested in learning more about sponsoring at MARA, click here.