Question 1

True or false: The YMCA was originally called the 'Young Men's Self-Improvement Society.'

Accepted Answer

False. False. It was always the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA). The name was never changed to 'Self-Improvement Society.'

Question 2

True or false: The YMCA invented basketball and volleyball.

Accepted Answer

True. True. James Naismith invented basketball at a YMCA in 1891. William Morgan invented volleyball at a YMCA in 1895.

Question 3

True or false: The YMCA's iconic red triangle logo represents the mind, body, and spirit.

Accepted Answer

True. True. The triangle, introduced in 1881, symbolizes the YMCA's holistic approach: mind, body, and spirit.

Question 4

True or false: The YMCA was founded in London, not the United States.

Accepted Answer

True. True. The YMCA was founded by George Williams in London in 1844. The first US branch opened in Boston in 1851.

Question 5

True or false: The Village People wrote 'YMCA' as a tribute to the organization's youth programs.

Accepted Answer

False. False. The song was inspired by the YMCA's reputation as a gay cruising spot, though the band later downplayed that.

Question 6

True or false: The YMCA once banned swimming pools because they were considered too dangerous for moral character.

Accepted Answer

False. False. The YMCA actually pioneered indoor swimming pools in the US. The first one opened in Brooklyn in 1885.

Question 7

True or false: YMCA stands for Young Men's Christian Association, but it no longer has any religious affiliation.

Accepted Answer

False. False. The YMCA is still a Christian-based organization, though it welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds.

Question 8

True or false: During World War I, the YMCA provided canteens and support services to soldiers on both sides.

Accepted Answer

True. True. The YMCA ran canteens, rest huts, and recreational services for Allied and even some Central Powers troops.

YMCA Trivia Questions