Lacey Parks reports rising youth sports registrations, plans more camps and programs

Byron Shorsman, the city’s recreation coordinator for fields and athletics, presented the parks department’s youth sports report after the public-comment period.

Shorsman said registration and field use have rebounded since COVID: the department ran 52 camps last year (44 in summer), recorded roughly 6,447 total field reservations and saw a 13.6% increase in some youth registrations and a 24% jump in basketball registrations. A recent basketball-season survey returned a 93% positive rating from participants.

Shorsman proposed expanding seasonal offerings, including more tennis and rowing camps, exploring a spring basketball season and piloting flag rugby and additional pickleball youth programming. He also said the department is finalizing a logo refresh and pursuing sponsorship assistance for larger fundraising efforts.

Commissioners praised the program and encouraged staff to improve outreach; one commissioner noted that many residents are unaware of Lacey Parks offerings and urged better promotion of registration openings. Shorsman said enhanced marketing is part of the plan as the department continues to grow participation.