The seas over at the Chestermere Recreation Centre have been rough over the past few years. But with the electing of a new board, some new businesses moving in and some new staff, the seas seem to be calming down.
The Chestermere Recreation Centre is a vital staple to our city and those that volunteer or work for the organization are a dedicated hard working group. That is also the case for the new General Manager, Jody Nouwen.
“I have lived in Chestermere for 6 years. During this time my family has been a part of many CRCA programs including playschool, hockey, dance and soccer so I feel right at home coming to work every day. I live a very active lifestyle and still continue to play ringette, field hockey, softball and golf. Recreational activities have always been a big part of my life and I’m thrilled that I have the opportunity to continue to work in an industry that promotes active, healthy lifestyles”, says Nouwen.
Nouwen began working at the Chestermere Recreation Centre in November 2015 as the marketing and sales coordinator and was promoted into the General Manager role in May 2016. Prior to that, she worked for the City of Calgary in their Recreation Department for 12 years.
I asked Nouwen what she sees for the future of Chestermeres only recreation centre. “Part of the CRCA’s mandate is to provide programs and opportunities for total family recreation. The CRCA staff and volunteers from the maintenance crew and office and program staff to the board of directors, work hard to stay current with trends in the recreation field. We pride ourselves on being a full service, multi-use recreation facility. Our goal is to be able to provide exceptional programs and services for the community for many years to come”, answered Nouwen.
Nouwen spoke to the importance of our rec centre saying, “The CRCA is the hub of the community. From ice sports, to dance, fitness or taekwondo to, weddings and special events the Chestermere Rec centre is a central meeting place for our community. When people think of recreating in Chestermere they think of the Recreation Centre and all the great things we have to offer. Another valuable asset the CRCA offers to residents are our essential childcare programs such as our Out of School program and Summer Day camps. Parents in the community need a safe place for their children to be when they are at work and we are able to provide them with programs that are not only affordable but also fun for their children.
With the growing population of our city and surrounding areas the Chestermere Recreation centre will continue to be an essential multi use recreation facility”.
The rec centre has definitely been bringing in new business and programs to both keep themselves self-sustaining and also to better serve those that use the rec centre. A new cross fit studio, concession and much more, I asked the new GM what else was up and coming for the rec centre. “We have just partnered with the Best Western hotel and we are excited to announce that coming soon we will be offering mom and tot swim lessons for infants and small children and aqua size/water workout classes. We are also looking to offer some new programs in the fall such as Improv and theatre, gymnastics, new birthday party packages and this summer we are piloting our first CRCA hockey camp. For more information on programs and events at the Rec Centre please check out our website at www.chestermerecrca.com”.
Check out the Chestermere Recreation Centre website for all their current and upcoming programs and services.
