YOUNGSTOWN - The city of Youngstown is launching a basketball league for young men. 

What's called the Respect Basketball League will begin for young men ages 19 through 25 on April 17, 2021, according to a news release from the city.

The city's goal is to recruit up to 200 young men to give them life skills to improve their quality of life.

According to the city, the league hopes to reduce violence by pointing these young men in the right direction through programs that include athletics, educational opportunities, mentoring and leadership skills.

Commissioner Randy Nuby is leading the league with the support of the Central YMCA, the city of Youngstown, CIRV, Youngstown police, Eastern Gateway Community College and other community organizations and leaders.