Each middle and high school allows the youth football program to use their football fields free of charge which greatly adds to the success of the season. These schools and their recreational facilities are a tremendous community asset and have a major impact upon the quality of life in Bradley County.
Charleston Elementary School's football field hosted the Super Bowl for the 9/10 and 11/12 age groups this season. The Colts, coached by Brian Gibson, are this year's champions for the 9/10 age group. Coach Jeff Witt's Falcons claimed the championship in the 11/12 age category. The Super Bowl championship for the 7/8 year-olds was held at the Bradley County Recreational Park on Urbane Road. The Tulane Green Wave, coached by David Moses, claimed that division title.
Congratulations to the winners and all the teams for their good sportsmanship and fair play. I especially want to thank the parents for encouraging their children to take advantage of team sports in Bradley County. As mayor, I also want to express my appreciation to the hundreds of volunteers who support the county's sports programs with their time and energy.
We are fortunate to have a Parks and Recreation staff capable of providing professional, safe, recreational programs and facilities for Bradley County citizens. Director Paul Wyrick and his staff currently maintain more than 200 acres of recreation facilities. That number will increase when the new facility at Elrod Park on Minnis Road is finished. Phase one is well under way and will provide four adult softball fields when complete. This will allow the four fields on Urbane Road to be used exclusively as a softball complex for girls.
Fall is always a busy time for the County Parks and Rec Department. The baseball program began in August and ended in October with 28 teams competing.
In addition to overseeing the many team sports opportunities available through the Bradley County Parks and Recreation Department, Paul and his staff must oversee maintenance and upkeep at our recreation facilities while continually planning ahead for the next team sport. Without the support of the many volunteers, the staff's job would be very difficult.
In October, they began meetings with coaches in the County's Youth Basketball League. They reviewed league policies and rules, and began the process of organizing teams. This season 65 teams will compete in our youth basketball league with 16 schools providing opportunities for several cheerleading squads.
For more information about any of the team sports programs, you may contact the Recreation Department at 728-7035 or visit the county website at www.bradleyco.net.
The Parks and Recreation Department is another reason I say that Bradley County is Tennessee at its best.
