WRPD programs keep kids healthy and active

The Wasco Recreation and Parks District has an exciting summer lineup of fun activities with open registration for their soccer and cross country youth programs.

The soccer season will begin on Sept. 17 and will run through Nov. 5. Enrollment is active now and closes on Aug. 5.

Those participating will learn the soccer fundamentals, agility, different drills and skills, footwork, rules and sportsmanship.

There are different divisions for as young as 3 up to 14. All divisions are coed.

The cost for the noncompetitive division for 8 and under is $45, while the price for older divisions is $55. The fee includes uniform jersey and socks.

"It is a sport that teaches kids to interact, rely on one another, build trust and make new friends," Program Coordinator Juan Bernal said. "These are lessons that they carry off the fields."

This year, for the second time, there will be a cross country program for those ages 6 to 14. Registration is open now until the end of August. The cost is $45.

'We had some good success with it last year, and we wanted to bring it back," Bernal said .

Participants are broken into groups to compete with other runners in their age group. They run 1K, 2K and 3K.

The cross country team is called the Trail Blazers, and there is an invitational competition to take place in Wasco on Saturday, Sept. 24, at West Side Park.

Participants start training on Monday, Aug. 1, where they learn the basic concepts of running long distances like developing their stride, breathing and relaxing their body as they run.

"The biggest thing is keeping your mental focus, understanding you have a goal to accomplish," said Bernal.

Coaches are volunteer community members, including parents and active sports coaches. WRPD continues to look for coaches, and no prior experience is needed

"There are resources for them so they can learn. We really are just looking for people ready to serve," said Bernal.

"We cannot offer these programs without the help of those volunteering their time as coaches," said District Manager Chris Serna.

WRPD has a paid internship program for high school students to help as scorekeepers, referees, lifeguards and umpires. These positions give work experience and prepare young people for jobs after graduation.

Bernal said WRPD brings the residents of Wasco programs to keep them active and healthy while enjoying their swimming pool, facilities, parks and other green spaces.

"In this sense, it brings the community together."

WRPD partners with Kern Country to host senior programs. They offer a Wasco Fit Club that runs year-round, and the swimming pool is open from June thru August for guests to enjoy.

Other sports they offer for the youth include basketball in the winter and baseball and flag football in spring. There is also kickball, t-ball, coach pitch and tennis, to name a few.

"Any child, whether familiar with a sport or not, is welcome to join our programs. It is a chance for them to create new friendships and work together as a team," said Serna.

For more information on summer sports registration, how to become a coach, or about the internship program, call 661-758 3081.