Free program has served 22,700 children
Today marked the successful completion of the Lifetime Sports Academy’s 16th summer with more than 1,250 participants this year and a total of 22,700 participants over the last 16 years. Group lessons in the lifetime sports of golf, tennis and swimming were offered to boys and girls, ages 8 – 18. Lessons focused on skill development.
“We’re investing in the lives of young people through the Lifetime Sports Academy,” said Mayor Tom Henry. “Efforts like this one make Fort Wayne unique and it positions us for future growth and success. Our Parks and Recreation Department is a leader in ensuring that we provide excellent services that will have a lasting impact in a positive way.”
Each year, the Parks and Recreation Department provides certified coaching and highly trained professionals who direct lessons in swimming, tennis and golf. Offering instruction in three sports has been a successful formula throughout the years. The Lifetime Sport Academy has developed a solid reputation and attracts a huge number of kids each summer.
This year, the following numbers of lessons were given: 2,300 golf lessons, 1,300 tennis lessons and 2,000 swim lessons. Participants have the opportunity to earn new tennis rackets, golf clubs, and more. Over 100 rackets and 50 sets of golf clubs were earned.
Since its beginning in 1998, Lifetime Sports Academy has awarded more than 1,600 tennis rackets and close to 1,200 sets of golf clubs to participants who passed their skills tests.
Amanda Blumenherst was named “Volunteer of the Year” this year for her continued support of the Lifetime Sports Academy, including yearly golf clinics for the LSA youth. Today’s awards ceremony recognized outstanding sportsmanship winners in golf, tennis and swimming.
“The Lifetime Sports Academy accomplishes much more than sports education,” said Director Moll. “This signature program helps our youth develop self esteem and a sense of belonging. Over the last 16 years it’s become a model for parks and recreation departments all over the nation.”
For more information about the Lifetime Sports Academy, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 427-6000 or log on to http://www.fortwayneparks.org/
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