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i9 Sports focuses on good sportsmanship

By Alison Stanton

Almost eight years ago, Andrew Paulo decided to sign his young son, Drew, up for sports.

In addition to wanting his son to get involved with sports, Paulo said he also hoped Drew would learn the value of good sportsmanship.

After hearing about i9 Sports, Paulo said he knew he found exactly the type of sports program for which he was looking.

Over the years, Drew, now 11, has played baseball and flag football through i9 Sports. Drew’s little brother, Jayson, 8, is also involved with the program.

“I’ve also coached basketball and flag football every year my sons have played,” Paulo said.

Kim Olsen, executive director for i9 Sports Chandler/Gilbert/Queen Creek, said the recreation youth sports league franchise opened in October, 2007.

“We started with flag football and cheer and we added basketball and soccer in 2009, and then T-ball and coach pitch baseball in 2011,” Olsen said.

i9 operates five seasons per year. More than 6,000 kids participate annually in the sports league, Olsen said, and i9 Sports offers programs for boys and girls from 3 years old through seventh grade.

“We are the fastest-growing youth sports league,” she said.

Olsen said five core principles help to set i9 Sports apart from other youth sports leagues.

“The first is fun. Our No. 1 focus is for the kids to have fun,” Olsen said.

Second, she said, is i9 Sports’ focus on inclusivity.

“We offer equal playing time so all kids play,” she said.

The third core principle, Olsen said, is

safety.

“Coaches are background checked and rules are made to protect everyone,” she said.

Next—just as Paulo had hoped— participants of all ages are taught about good sportsmanship.

“We teach the kids what good sportsmanship is and lessons that they can take with them and use in everyday life,” Olsen said.

“We do this by having our coaches teach their team different sportsmanship values each week. Then the player who demonstrated that value during the game is given a sportsmanship medal.”

Finally, Olsen said i9 Sports teaches kids that winning is not everything.

“So many other leagues have a win at all costs mentality and that’s not what we are all about,” she said.

“Winning is fun, but it shouldn’t be the priority. Kids just want to have fun. Playing sports should be about learning the game and having fun while doing it and i9 Sports offers that.”

Olsen said it’s not uncommon to have families like the Paulos return and enroll more than one child in their programs.

“Because we are offering multiple sports, we can cater to an entire family,” Olsen said.

“We also appreciate our coaches. Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to support the i9 Sports philosophy is what makes us so successful.”

As a parent and coach, Paulo said he is impressed with how organized the program is, and Olsen’s commitment to the kids.

“It’s really organized and Kim makes sure everything is very convenient and will organize games together so that both

boys can play,” he said.

“Kim is amazing and always works with our schedules and answers all of our questions.”

Paulo said he also appreciates not having to drive Drew and Jayson long distances for their games.

“In a lot of other leagues you have to travel, but i9 is very central,” he said.

The emphasis on equal playing time is also important, Paulo said.

“No other sports leagues do this. When I’m coaching, I have to set the lineups before the game so that everyone plays equally,” he said.

“Kids that have not played sports as much as others are doing much better at the end of the season than in other leagues, where they wouldn’t play as much.”

Paulo said both Drew and Jayson look forward to their games.

“It’s been a good experience and the kids love it. For anybody who wants to start out with sports with their kids, i9 Sports is great,” he said.

For more information about i9 Sports, call (480) 664-4039 or visit www.i9sports. com.

9, 16

“Oh, How Special You Are!” Empowering Workshop, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Boost your artistic confidence at this free workshop designed especially for creative individuals. Writers, painters, dancers and other young artists are welcome to attend and learn about the significance of empowerment. Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2640, www.chandleraz.gov.

9, 23, 30

Wonderful Winter Wanderers: A Winter Fantasy Camp, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Spend the morning with friends at Winter Fantasy Camp. Dance, sing, play games, dress up, make morning camp a blast. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2727, www.chandleraz.gov.

Acoustic Eidolon: World Music for the Soul, 3 p.m. Acoustic Eidolon will hit the stage Jan. 10 at Higley Center for the Performing Arts. This internationally acclaimed duo features Joe Scott on a custom-made, double-neck guitjo and world renowned musician Hannah Alkire on the cello. Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert. $21 to $24. (480) 279-7190, http://higleycenter.org/.

Chefs in the Making, 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Make a cute apron, cook delicious treats and expand your culinary skills with easy recipes during this fun cooking class. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

Afterschool Nature Walk, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. End the day with a relaxing walk through the great outdoors at Veterans Oasis Park. Explore the park’s wildlife and the cool winter air during this evening afterschool nature walk. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

Stampin’ Up Stamp Club, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Use the best of Stampin’ Up cards, dies and stamps to create custom notes and greeting cards. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

How to Beat the High Cost of College, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Learn how to decrease college expenses through the use of financial planning strategies specifically geared toward college funding. This class will focus on scholarships, grants, income and asset planning, and financial aid forms. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

Desserts with Dad, 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Children can have fun making then eating yummy treats with their fathers. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

Black Violin

Black Violin, known for its unique style that combines classical music with hip hop, is set to perform at the Chandler Center for the Arts. Join violinist Kev Marcus and viola player Wil B. as they play from their newest album “Black Violin.” Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. $15 to $40. (480) 782-2680 www.chandlercenter.org/

Bug Zoo, 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Explore a live collection of insects with a certified entomologist and learn about beneficial bugs, such as ladybugs and bees. Each child will receive a free activity book. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

Play-Well Teknologies: Jedi Engineer Using LEGO, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Explore the principles of engineering while designing R2 units, energy catapults and shield generators during this fun “Star Wars”-themed event. Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. $7 to $10 registration fee. (480) 782-2640, www.chandleraz.gov.

Chandler Multicultural Festival, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrate cultural diversity at Chandler’s 21st annual Multicultural Festival. This free event, held in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Chandler’s rich heritage, includes live music, art and fun for all ages. Chandler Fashion Center, 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Free. (480) 917-4559, www.chandleraz.gov.

Cirque Alfonse Timber!, 3 p.m. Timber! is a Canadian cirques troupe that features aerial acrobats and folk musicians who perform epic feats of agility and strength. The show is inspired by the first North American lumberjacks, loggers and farmers. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. $28 to $44. (480) 782-2680 www.chandlercenter.org/

11, 13, 15, 20, 22, 25, 27, 29

Tumbleweed Tots , 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Children can enjoy playing in this fun, safe and clean area. Toys, equipment and activities are provided. Parental/guardian supervision is required. Maximum of four children per adult. Ages 5 and younger only. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots , 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Tunnels, Tikes and Tunes, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Children can have fun crawling through a maze of tunnels in a special play area intended for children 5 years of age and younger. Maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

Meet the Creature, 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Get an up close look at animals from around the world while learning about wildlife rescue and conservation. Children ages 2 to 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

Canvas Wall Hanging: Julie Nutting, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Use Julie Nutting stamps and decorative papers to make a beautiful canvas wall hanging. This class is for teens ages 13 to 18 only. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

Be My Valentine, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Learn how to make colorful Valentine Day cards using fun paper-cutting techniques and stamping products. All supplies are provided. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www. chandleraz.gov.

Daddy Daughter Dance, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Fathers and daughters can dance the night away during this one-night class that teaches all the latest dance moves to a variety of music. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2727, www.chandleraz.gov.

Outdoor Pizza Party, 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Cook delicious pizzas in Dutch ovens then enjoy a movie with friends and family. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

Moscow Festival Ballet: Don Quixote , 7:30 p.m. Watch as leading dancer from across Russia tell the timeless story of Don Quixote, a hero on a quest to find the love of his life. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler, $15 to $55. (480) 782-2680, www.chandlercenter.org/

Portrait Photography Workshop, 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Learn about portrait photography and the basics of exposures, composition, posing and lighting at this one-night workshop. Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. Nominal registration fee. (480) 782-2640, www.chandleraz.gov.

Chandler Symphony Classical Series: Winter Romance 3 p.m. The Chandler Symphony, under the director of Jack Herriman and associate conductor Alex Zheng, will perform at Chandler Center for the Arts as part of a five-part concert series. This free event is led by numerous volunteer musicians from all around the Valley and strives to make classical music accessible to all people. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2680 www.chandlercenter.org.

Acoustic Eidolon: World Music for the Soul. Submitted Photo Black Violin. Submitted Photo

Cirque Alfonse Timber! Submitted Photo

We offer hundreds of opportunities for you and your family to discover hidden talents, develop new skills and have fun through our classes, programs and events. For a complete listing of upcoming activities or for more information on programs highlighted below pick up Break Time magazine at Chandler facilities, visit www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime or call 480-782-2727.

CARDIO & ADVANCED CARDIO TENNIS Tennis Center

Time to make some racket! Set to the beat of motivating music, Cardio Tennis and Advance Cardio Tennis are sure to keep you moving and burning calories, while having fun at the same time. Group activity featuring drills gives players of all skill levels an ultimate, high-energy workout.

Resident fee: $48 | Non-resident fee: $65

THURSDAY, JAN. 21 • 6 p.m.

PERSONAL TRAINING & FITNESS Tumbleweed Recreation Center

Make your fitness a priority by combining play with exercise. Learn to workout smarter with a certified Personal Trainer. Start today and receive a comprehensive body analysis and three 30-minute personal training sessions for an affordable introductory price.

PRESCHOOL EXPO

Hear that? Find live music where you least expect – in the park. Enjoy an evening of soulful sounds under the sunset in Veterans Oasis Park. For schedule information, visit www.chandleraz.gov/veterans-oasis.

DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE

SATURDAY, FEB. 6 • 6 p.m.

Dads it’s time to dust off your dancing shoes, press your stylish suit and escort your princess to the annual Daddy Daughter Valentine’s Day Dance. This heartfelt evening is filled with favorite dance tunes, crafts, and pasta dinner. Father and daughter duos will receive a keepsake photo.

SATURDAY, FEB. 27 • 9-11 a.m.

Do you need a new activity for your adventureseeking child? Join us at Chandler Community Center for our FREE Preschool Expo as we share with you exciting options to fulfill your child’s unyielding quest for discovery. This familyfriendly morning will be jam-packed with parent resources and entertainment. It’s one-stop information gathering for all your preschooler (0-6 years) activity and educational needs. For more information, please call Shaun Bishop at 480-782-2730.

Winter Swim Lessons!

Just keep swimming this winter season with year-round lessons. Sign-up to attend the winter lesson program at Hamilton and Mesquite Groves Aquatic Centers to help your kids build skills needed to stay safe in water. Lessons offered through the City of Chandler follow the American Red Cross Learn-To-Swim and Parent Child aquatic programs. Pools are heated.

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council

St. Mary Catholic school hosting spring boutique fundraiser

St. Mary Basha Catholic School has scheduled a spring boutique that includes crafting vendors selling homemade food and craft items from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 16.

The event is just before Mother’s Day and Teacher Appreciation. According to organizers, it’s a great place to shop for those types of gifts. Proceeds will benefit the school.

Food trucks will be on site selling their specialties.

In the meantime, St. Mary Basha is seeking interested vendors/ businesses to partake in the boutique. For an application, visit www. smbhomeandschool.com/boutique. For more information, call (602) 509-8233 or email jencerneka@cox.net

The school is located at 200 W. Galveston St., near downtown Chandler. It has provided excellence in education for more than 70 years.