Lakewood Parks announces youth soccer growth and improved adult softball leagues

On April 16, 2025, the Salina City Parks and Recreation Advisory Board convened to discuss recent developments and future plans for local parks and recreational programs. The meeting highlighted significant improvements in youth sports, adult leagues, and park facilities, reflecting the city's commitment to enhancing community engagement through recreational activities.

One of the key topics was the growth of youth soccer, with the league expanding to 39 teams this spring. Amy Wyatt, who took over the program from Dave Adekirk, has been credited with successfully managing this increase. The board noted the importance of structured scheduling for practice fields, which has been implemented to accommodate the rising demand for space, particularly with the introduction of new turf fields. This structured approach allows teams to reserve fields in advance, ensuring better organization and accessibility.

The meeting also addressed the revival of adult softball leagues, which resumed operations after a hiatus due to COVID-19. The board announced the introduction of a spring coed league, responding to community requests for more recreational opportunities. This initiative marks a gradual return to pre-pandemic levels of participation, although officials acknowledged that the league may not reach its former popularity.

In terms of park maintenance and improvements, the board reported several accomplishments. At Jerry Ivy Park, a broken swing set was replaced, and basketball courts across three complexes were resurfaced and upgraded. Additionally, a retaining wall at Shilling Park was removed to prevent vandalism, simplifying the landscape while enhancing safety.

The meeting also touched on landscaping efforts, including turf improvements and weed management, which are crucial as the spring season progresses. Furthermore, the introduction of new columbariums at the local cemetery has proven popular, with six units sold shortly after their installation, indicating a growing demand for cremation services.

Overall, the discussions during the meeting underscored the city's proactive approach to enhancing recreational facilities and programs, fostering community involvement, and addressing the needs of residents. As the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board continues to implement these initiatives, the community can expect further improvements and opportunities for engagement in the coming months.