M Focus on: Parks & Environmental Services
And they played on: Youth sports and recreational programs are still a go this year By DEB GERBERS | The Municipal
Recent data suggests that despite the pan- higher than ever before — even pre-COVID. demic, many cities are showing an increase “We have seen an incredible increase in the in program participation. It appears residents number of participants in our fall programs feel safe enough in their communities to par- this year,” he said. “Our levels are at that of a ticipate in sports, classes and other activities typical springtime registration level, which is offered by local parks and recreation depart- generally our highest.” ments. For example, according to records Boykin believes that the increase in proobtained by the Arkansas Democrat News, gram participation is due to several factors. the city of Springdale, Ark., shows that over “We have a very good group of volunteer 2,000 kids played sports in the spring through coaches working with our youth programs. its parks and recreation department — up There is a very high retention rate. We also from 1,921 in 2016 and 1,916 in 2018, both have many new programs available as well as increases of roughly 4%. a new recreational facility, which we acquired Matt Boykin is the recreation superinten- before the pandemic.” dent for Springdale. He said the participation Playing sports and participating in recrenumbers for fall 2021 are on track to be ational activities has always been beneficial 36 THE MUNICIPAL | OCTOBER 2021
ABOVE: Springdale, Ark., experienced an increase in participation in its youth leagues and camps during 2021. (Photo provided by Springdale, Ark.)
to youth. Being part of a team can teach life lessons on how to get along with others, how to play fair, how to be considerate, all while picking up a new talent or sport. The city of Springdale offers all kinds of recreational sports and activities for residents of all ages, from little league baseball to teenaged basketball camps to senior favorites like pickleball. Aquatics for all ages, kickboxing and many other camps and activities are also offered through the Springdale’s parks and recreation department.
