Explore, Create, Engage
By Fred Engh
Several years ago, while writing my first book—Why Johnny Hates Sports—I had the chance to reflect on thousands of conversations I’ve had with recreation leaders around the country.
As an invited speaker to state, national, and global conferences, I had some of the most fascinating and enlightening chats after I came off stage. It was there that professionals shared their challenges as well as their success stories.
Honestly, I learned as much from them as they did from me, and I included many of their insights in the chapters devoted to what needs to be done to improve sports for kids.
One of the most popular topics was always programming—finding innovative ways to keep kids engaged and having so much fun that they couldn’t wait to return the next year.
Everyone runs baseball and basketball programs—and that’s great. But what are today’s recreation directors doing to ratchet up the excitement and supplement those programs to give kids a new activity that may ignite a passion in them that will last a lifetime?
Otherwise, programs risk becoming stagnant and boring, and we can’t afford to lose youngsters to other activities that may not be as healthy and productive for them.
Check out what these Certified Youth Sports Administrators (CYSAs) are doing in their programs. Their unique approach is paying big dividends for the kids:
Bradley Ficek, Director of Youth Sports and Fitness at U.S. Army Garrison Stuttgart Youth Sports & Fitness in Germany, on the department’s innovative training camps used to prepare children—and coaches—for the upcoming season: “We are proud of many things about our program, and one that stands out is the implementation of preseason conditioning/skill-development training camps. Of course, it is a lot more work in preparation for our staff, but an easier transition into the season for players, coaches, and administration. Our youth can practice skills and train so they are able to build muscle resiliency and work on core groups that athletes will use during that season. Also, the coaches are able to brush off the dust as they see how staff members lead dynamic warm-ups and skill drills, and how to work with children, as well as build their knowledge. The same goes for the administrators. We are able to evaluate the skill levels of the youth during these preseason trainings, helping us create balanced teams.”
Jeff Shelton, Recreation Specialist at the Naval Station Rota Spain Youth Sports and Fitness Program, on the 3K and 1K fun fitness runs and mini-triathlons the program conducts: “Even though the distances are not really difficult, it does push the children to test their ability, and it’s growing every year. The community asked for it and we brought it in slowly, from a biathlon in 2012 to the triathlon of the last three years. Although this event is for the kids, the parents are actively engaged in activities that push these young athletes to the limit. Together we are pushing for a healthier Rota community. Sharing sports with your kids is something special.”
Tracey Lawrence-Thomas, the Reservation and Events Coordinator for the Detroit (Michigan) Parks and Recreation Department Northwest Activities Center, on the department’s inaugural STAY (Seniors, Teens, Adults, and Youth) Fit Walk: “We had 80 participants in the walk, and half of those registered were teens (ages 13-17) and youth (ages 3-12). We hosted the event at one of the premier parks and are looking forward to the event next year when we hope to double the participation. We recognize that not every child is a basketball, baseball, or football player. We want to make sure that we are on the cutting edge and able to offer something for everyone. We keep our ear to the ground and listen for what our customers, the citizens of this great city, are looking for, and we try to provide what they need. When the program works, others want to join in on the fun, and when it doesn't work, we try to see what can be done to make it work.”
Fred Engh is founder of the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) in West Palm Beach, Fla. He can be reached via email at fengh@nays.org. To join more than 3,000 communities by starting a NAYS chapter, visit www.nays.org or contact Emmy Martinez at emartinez@nays.org or (800) 729-2057.