The Timken Community Centre opened in October 2005 with two NHL size rinks, rubberized fitness track and multi-use facility. Over the past six years it has been, at times, bursting with hockey and other activities. However, without on-going programming to make use of the facility throughout the day and week, the community investment was not living up to its full potential.
That changed this past summer, when St. Thomas Parks and Recreation brought on board Program Coordinator Kaitlyn Koning. Her mission was to coordinate and introduce programming for all of the Parks & Recreation Facilities throughout the city (including The Timken Centre, Memorial Arena, parks and trails) with an eye to providing affordable recreation opportunities for families, youth, teens and adults, and to promoting facility use.
That changed this past summer, when St. Thomas Parks and Recreation brought on board Program Coordinator Kaitlyn Koning. Her mission was to coordinate and introduce programming for all of the Parks & Recreation Facilities throughout the city (including The Timken Centre, Memorial Arena, parks and trails) with an eye to providing affordable recreation opportunities for families, youth, teens and adults, and to promoting facility use.
Kaitlyn came equipped with a diploma in Recreation and Leisure Services, a soon to be completed degree in Kinesiology, past experience with YMCA programming, and most importantly, barrels of enthusiasm. Judging by the growth of programming from zero to a broad range of exciting offerings, she also brought a whole lot of organizational know-how.
There’s now something for everyone, and plenty of opportunity to take part in recreation, with all of its mental and physical benefits, in a more casual and flexible setting than that of team sports.
The 2011 Fall & Winter Guide provides information on programs ranging from badminton to basketball, dodge ball, floor hockey, poling, art, dance and more. Most are targeted to various age groups from children to adults. Also included in the guide is information about St. Thomas parks and trails and facilities for birthdays and special events.
There’s now something for everyone, and plenty of opportunity to take part in recreation, with all of its mental and physical benefits, in a more casual and flexible setting than that of team sports.
The 2011 Fall & Winter Guide provides information on programs ranging from badminton to basketball, dodge ball, floor hockey, poling, art, dance and more. Most are targeted to various age groups from children to adults. Also included in the guide is information about St. Thomas parks and trails and facilities for birthdays and special events.
Going from zero programs to an enticing smorgasbord of offerings takes some juggling to match activity, age group and time slot with community demand so that sessions will be well-attended. Says Kaitlyn, “Since the guide was printed some adjustments have been made. For example, enrolment in floor hockey went through the roof, while badminton enrolment was low, but there have been requests for 55+ badminton during a daytime slot.” Scheduling will evolve as she strives to fine-tune the schedule to meet community interest and requests.
Kaitlyn notes that many parents appreciate the chance for their young children to try out a new activity at a reasonable price – when they are not sure if a child will be interested, affordable pricing is especially important.
Such a wide range of programming requires a substantial pool of instructors – Kaitlyn mentions that she is always on the lookout for qualified people in various programs.
Kaitlyn notes that many parents appreciate the chance for their young children to try out a new activity at a reasonable price – when they are not sure if a child will be interested, affordable pricing is especially important.
Such a wide range of programming requires a substantial pool of instructors – Kaitlyn mentions that she is always on the lookout for qualified people in various programs.
With the fall session in full swing, Kaitlyn is looking forward to the addition, in January, of jazz, cheerleading, cooking, drama and CPR and more 55+ programs like badminton. There are also Christmas and March Break Camps plus 3 on 3 Spring Hockey in the line-up.
Plan to help your child discover their interests, or try something new yourself this January. Find out more by checking out the Guide, visiting the Timken Centre (2 Third Avenue, St. Thomas) for the latest program information handouts or by calling Kaitlyn at 519-633-7112.
Plan to help your child discover their interests, or try something new yourself this January. Find out more by checking out the Guide, visiting the Timken Centre (2 Third Avenue, St. Thomas) for the latest program information handouts or by calling Kaitlyn at 519-633-7112.
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