Fall 2024 Activity Guide - 37

This expansion mirrors a broader trend in adult recreation,
where non-traditional sports have gained popularity for their
social and inclusive appeal. The inclusion of sports like
pickleball, kickball and cornhole reflects a growing trend towards
recreational activities that emphasize social interaction and
enjoyment. These non-traditional sports provide an alternative
for individuals seeking a break from the routine and a chance to
engage in playful competition.
Acknowledging the changing dynamics and the desire for
alternative options, Cobb PARKS introduced individual
registration alongside team registration in 2018. While team
registration has been a staple, the introduction of individual
registration has been a game-changer. Individual registration
has allowed more than 500 registrants to join the league each
year that would have normally missed out on the opportunity to
play, creating more than 60 additional teams annually. Not only
does this allow everyone the ability to play but it generates more
teams for each league. The additional individual teams have
been an important factor contributing to the continued growth
and reach of the adult athletics division with many teams
returning for future seasons. This move addressed the
consistent demand from individuals who yearned to participate
but lacked the numbers to form a complete team. Whether new
to the area or groups of friends looking to join without a
complete roster, individuals could now sign up for an opportunity
to engage in recreational activities that were once unavailable to
them.
The birth of the ultimate frisbee league in 2018 stemmed from
the observation of a group regularly playing in the park. Staff
approached them about forming an official league and after
thorough research and collaboration, the ultimate frisbee league
was successfully created later that year. In the realm of
recreational sports, where tradition often reigns supreme, Cobb
County PARKS has carved a niche for itself with the introduction
of non-traditional sport leagues. One that stands out is their
adult Spikeball league. Since its inception in 2019, this league has
not only become a standout feature in their league lineup but has
also marked itself as one of the few, if not the only one, offered
by a parks and recreation department in the entire country.
REGISTER FOR
ADULT LEAGUES
While the growth of Cobb County PARKS leagues has undoubtedly
been positive, the creation of new leagues requires careful
consideration of various factors. Essential to the success of any
league is garnering support from both the community and your
department. The backing of these key stakeholders ensures a
solid foundation for the league to thrive. Moreover, budget
considerations are crucial in determining the feasibility of
introducing a new league, as costs associated with equipment,
officials, facilities and staff support must align with available
resources. Additionally, determining an affordable cost structure
for the leagues is crucial, requiring an analysis of operating
costs and expenses. Striking the right balance ensures that
participation fees remain accessible to a broad range of
community members while still covering the necessary
expenditures.
Having a dedicated and capable staff to manage the logistics,
organize events and support the league's growth is equally vital.
Notably, the introduction of non-traditional leagues like
cornhole, ultimate frisbee, Spikeball and pickleball has proven
beneficial, as these sports often involve self-officiation, relieving
pressure on the operating budget while maintaining a positive
and engaging recreational experience for participants. This
thoughtful approach ensures that new leagues not only meet the
diverse interests of the community but also operate sustainably
within the available resources.
Cobb County PARKS has truly become a hub for diverse athletic
pursuits and stands at the forefront of the evolving nature of
adult athletic leagues, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity,
responsiveness to community interests and a proactive
approach to diversifying recreational opportunities. As the
landscape continues to evolve, Cobb PARKS remains steadfast in
its mission to make recreational opportunities affordable,
accessible, enjoyable and enriching for all.
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Fall 2024 Activity Guide

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Fall 2024 Activity Guide
