June 17, 2025
The Lifetime Sports Academy at McMillen Park is a great place for kids and teens to spend their summer. This free program is open to boys and girls ages seven to 17 and offers group lessons in golf, tennis and swimming. It runs Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and participants can attend as often as they like during those hours. Lessons are taught by trained coaches and volunteers who enjoy helping kids learn and grow.
Golf
Golf lessons are led by Gary Whitacre, a PGA Professional who works with the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department. He and his team of experienced coaches and PGA apprentices teach kids the basics of the game. All equipment is provided, so there is no need to bring clubs. Students work on their skills and learn the rules of golf. Once they pass both a skills test and a rules test, they can earn free golf equipment.
Tennis
The tennis program is taught by qualified instructors who focus on basic shots, game rules, and sportsmanship. Tennis rackets and balls are provided during group lessons, and new players are encouraged to use the Academy's equipment. After attending seven scheduled lessons, students become eligible to receive a free tennis racket. The lessons help kids prepare for singles and doubles play and even tournaments later on.
Swimming
Swim lessons take place Monday through Thursday mornings. Students are placed in classes based on a swim skills evaluation, and they move up as they improve. The instructors are trained in the Learn-to-Swim method, and they help kids stay safe and comfortable in the water. Every Friday morning from 9:30 to 11:30, the pool is open for Open Swim. This gives kids time to practice and have fun in the water.
Pavilion Program for Extra Fun
The McMillen Park Pavilion is open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day for children who are waiting between lessons or who are not participating in sports that day. The Pavilion Program is open to kids as young as six and includes a mix of organized activities and free play. It is a good way for younger kids to enjoy the program and for older kids to take breaks in a safe and supervised space.
Important Information for Families
There are a few things families should know to make sure their children get the most out of the program.
- Participants must register online before their first visit.
- Kids must sign in each day at the pavilion and get a hand stamp before heading to their lessons.
- Athletic shoes are required for golf and tennis.
- Staff do not provide or hold medication, so families need to plan for any health needs.
- Children must be picked up by 3:00 p.m. each day.
- Parents may watch lessons but must stay in the designated viewing areas.
- The Lifetime Sports Academy office is located in the golf course pro shop. For questions, call 427-6760.
Summer Lunch Program
To help keep kids energized during their day, the Fort Wayne Community Schools Summer Lunch Program is available for Academy participants. This makes it easier for families to plan their day while their children are active and learning new skills.
Looking Ahead to Fun Day
The final day of the program is July 18, and a special Fun Day is planned to celebrate everything the kids have accomplished. More details will be shared during the summer. It will be a day filled with activities and recognition for the hard work and progress made during the program.
Supported by the Community
The Lifetime Sports Academy is funded by the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department and the Lifetime Sports Academy Committee. It is free for all area youth and is supported by local media sponsor 21 Alive.
The Lifetime Sports Academy is a great way for kids and teens to stay active, learn new sports, and enjoy their summer in a safe and friendly environment. Whether they want to improve their swimming, learn how to play tennis, or take their golf skills to the next level, this program has something for everyone.
