BROOKINGS – Now that school is out for the summer, many of the activities hosted by the Brookings Parks and Recreation Department will start in coming weeks.
Activities are filling up fast. Recreation Manager Darren Hoff says that swimming lessons are always the first to run out of space.
“Kids enjoy the water and something to do that’s fun, but it’s also a safety concern getting kids to learn how to swim.” Hoff said it’s important to get kids swimming due to the many lakes and pools in the Brookings area.
If parents are flexible with their schedules, swimming lesson slots may still be available due to the three time slots offered: morning, afternoon and evening.
“There is probably still a time to get your child into swimming lessons, especially if you have some flexibility throughout the day,” he said.
Horsemanship is another program that has seen its popularity increase. The classes are intended for children in grades four through 12. The camp takes place on the South Dakota State University campus at the horse barn and will teach campers the proper way to handle a horse through bridling, grooming, saddling and riding skills.
“The horsemanship camp is a program that’s highly popular and successful that a lot of people enjoy,” Hoff said.
The camp is limited to one class only per student, but if there is still space available for the second session, registration will open on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tennis and golfing lessons are also on the rise in the community. Hoff said more children are taking up the two sports.
The First Tee of South Dakota program aims to improve the lives of young people through the game of golf. The educational program and learning environment build character and other important life values.
“The First Tee program at EdgeBrook Golf Course is in its third year now, and people have said that it’s an excellent program and have really enjoyed it,” he said.
No new Park & Rec programs have been added this summer, but Hoff said his team is always looking to add something different.
Joining the staff this year is Recreation Manager Stacy Claussen. Hoff said it’s a nice change to get someone who has a fresh set of eyes to look at all programming, from scheduling to training.
Hoff said new staff bring with them “their experiences, training, background and beliefs on how they want to modify a program or even change it.” The department can monitor programs from year to year and make necessary changes in the future if needed, he added.
Many of the summer rec coaches and instructors are paid staff, along with some volunteers. All lifeguards at the pool were trained and certified before they could be on duty at the pool. Most of the volunteer work comes from parent coaches with T-ball and golf lessons.
Most of the summer Park & Rec programs will have kicked off by June 5. Residents can still sign up for many of the programs, and full classes may have a waiting list for those still trying to get in.
Registration and payment with credit or debit cards can be made online through www.cityofbrookings.org. Refunds have to be made one week before the scheduled start of the program.
