Arizona Parks & Recreation Association

October 2007

Spots are filling up quickly for this year’s International Youth Sports Congress, which promises to be the most exciting one to date, so all youth sports and recreation professionals are encouraged to register now.

Presented in conjunction with the Athletic Business Conference and Expo, the Congress is the preferred venue for all professionals involved in youth sports. This year’s Congress is being held in Orlando, Fla., from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1.

The three-day comprehensive educational training discusses cutting edge topics in the field of youth sports. Participants have the opportunity to gain knowledge, share experiences and network with more than 500 attendees

The Congress is an especially unique opportunity for members of the Academy For Youth Sports Administrators (AYSA) to network with their fellow Academy peers. Members of the CYSA Alumni Society receive an exclusive $95 discount on their registration.

“I enjoy meeting with other recreation directors,” said Tracy Skelton, recreation director for the City of Louisville, Ohio. “I pick up so many new ideas and it is just a great opportunity to get with people who are doing the same thing as you do. I know that my sports program is going to get better because of it.”

Many CYSAs are repeat attendees that enjoy the Congress every year.

“It kind of rejuvenates me and gives me a sense that I’m becoming more educated and can apply that to what we are already doing in the program,” said Kevin Adams, recreation coordinator for South Portland (Maine) Parks and Recreation. “It’s a great opportunity to just better myself professionally and to become more informed of news and different ideas of things that happen across the country.”

Esteemed sports journalist Rick Reilly of Sports Illustrated is this year’s keynote speaker. Along with the many networking opportunities and guest speakers who will be featured, the Excellence in Youth Sports Awards will also be presented to winning communities during the Congress.

“It’s nice to know that you have support out there,

Limited space available for 2007 International Youth Sports Congress

 because we do go through an awful lot,” said Skelton. “When we all get together, the support we have and the knowledge we share really helps. Plus the speakers they have are awesome.”

Spots are still available, but space is limited.

“It’s a positive experience and it’s very worthwhile,” Adams said. “If you get the opportunity, make the time and go.”

For more information click on the Congress logo on the main page of the NAYS Web site, call (800) 688-KIDS, or email yscongress@nays.org.