The Springfield-Greene County Park Board has announced the addition of nearly forty new programs and events. KSMU’s Justin Lux has more.
With the introduction of many new programs and events there seems to be something for almost everyone. One of the new programs, Paralympic Sports Springfield, will be offering a new sport development program that focuses on creating more opportunities for individuals of all ages with disabilities.
Other new additions include a Community Olympic Development Program that will offer young athletes access to coaches and facilities that will increase their chances to compete in Olympic Sports. The program has already begun working with those involved in weightlifting, tennis, volleyball, ice hockey and will soon be adding archery to the list.
"I think we're just trying to get more kids involved in sports and get them active again. We will be increasing to our fifth sport, which will be archery later on this year. We may add a couple more down the road," said Linda Dollar, Program Manager for the C.O.D.P.
Springfield has also been chosen as one of only sixteen cities in the country to hold a qualifying tournament for the U.S. Open. Participants will compete in sectional events where the winners will progress on to a national playoff in the hopes of gaining entry in to the U.S. Open in September.
For KSMU news, I’m Justin Lux.