COVID-19 meant that there were no youth recreation sports for the children of Botetourt County. We know how important youth sports is and studies show that children who are involved in physical activity are less likely to participate in risky behaviors.
To discuss recreation sports moving forward after COVID-19, Parks and Recreation Director Mandy Adkins facilitated a meeting on July 8 between Botetourt Booster Clubs and Recreation Advisory Commission. Five members of the Recreation Advisory Commission were in attendance and six Booster Club leaders (representing five of the six Booster Clubs) were in attendance.
On-going meetings have been held between Parks and Recreation staff and the Booster Clubs and a survey was sent to Booster Club leadership to provide feedback to specific questions as it related to the partnership between the two entities.
The results of the survey were as follows:
100% of respondents indicated they were in support of Parks and Recreation staff setting a consistent registration fee.
100% of respondents indicated they would like to see Parks and Recreation staff be responsible for ordering uniforms.
100% of respondents indicated they would consider a single county wide booster club model with participation in, and representation from each current booster club.
After analyzing results, it was determined that Botetourt Parks and Recreation will be working toward a single county wide Booster Club model with the goal of launching for the Spring 2022 season. Parks & Recreation and Booster Clubs will have responsibilities to make this new model a reality.
Parks and Recreation Responsibilities include: online registration, financial aid, background checks, ordering uniforms & equipment, game schedules, team formation – age 9 and above, game officials, site supervisors, field maintenance, support volunteer recruitment efforts, rules and conduct development and enforcement, coach training, and weather cancellation decisions and communication
Booster Club responsibilities include:
- Practice schedules
- Team formation – Age 8 and below
- Distribution of uniforms
- Equipment management & distribution
- Recruit volunteer coaches
- Submit coach list to Parks & Recreation Dept.
- Team photos
- Concession stands
By moving forward with this model, we can ensure a more efficient registration process and equitable access to playing sports for all the children in Botetourt County. The new Booster Club model will be launched in January 2022 for the Spring Sports Registration Process.
If you have any questions about this process, please contact Mandy Adkins, Parks & Recreation Director at madkins@botetourtva.gov or call (540) 928-2130.
