Among the many deserving candidates for our Full-Time Employee of the Year, one name stood out, receiving three separate nominations and ultimately earning a unanimous vote from both the SOFIE Committee and the Administration Team – Member Services Supervisor, Omayra Shofner.

Omayra has been an employee of Gurnee Park District since 2014. Over the years, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and compassion, serving as a role model not only for her immediate team but for the District as a whole.

Since the inception of FitNation, Omayra has played a crucial role in connecting fitness to Gurnee residents and contributing meaningfully to the facility’s growth and success. When the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic threatened the fitness industry, Omayra provided extensive support to maintain operations while offering safe and secure options for members to continue their wellness journeys. Thanks to these efforts, FitNation has continued to grow, recently achieving over 5,000 members under her leadership and membership retention efforts.

Over the past year, Omayra embraced an even greater leadership role, taking on the supervision of Customer Service Operations at both Hunt Club Park Community Center and FitNation. She did so with grace and pride, fostering an empowering environment for staff and ensuring streamlined, high-quality service for customers. Her ability to lead with empathy, professionalism, and a solutions-focused mindset is deeply valued by both colleagues and customers alike.

Further, when it comes to assisting at special events, working extra hours to help cover shifts at the front desk, or organizing the Gurnee Days food vendors, Omayra is always ready to lend a hand. Not only is she willing to help, but she does so with a sense of joy, initiative, and dedication for her role, her teammates, and Gurnee Park District. Omayra’s empathy, understanding, and thoughtful follow-through do not go unnoticed, actively inspiring those around her to do the same through their daily actions and interactions. One nominator shared, “Two of Omayra’s most admirable qualities are her kindness and compassion. Her inclusive nature helps foster a sense of belonging within the team and community.”

With this said, we are proud to recognize Omayra Shofner as the recipient of this year’s SOFIE Full-Time Employee of the Year Award, in honor of her outstanding contributions, leadership, and lasting impact on our district.

Aimee Schneider has had an incredible journey with the Gurnee Park District, demonstrating unwavering dedication and passion for early childhood education for the past 18 years. Starting out in the Childcare Room at the Hunt Club Park Community Center, Aimee quickly proved to be a compassionate and reliable team member, always ensuring the children received the best care and attention. With a natural ability to connect with both children and parents, Aimee seamlessly transitioned into the role of a Growing Tree Preschool Teacher, where her creativity, patience, and skill in developing engaging educational activities made a lasting impact on young learners.

In her current position as the Early Childhood Coordinator, Aimee has demonstrated outstanding leadership, overseeing the growth of Growing Tree Preschool while maintaining the highest standards of care and education. Aimee is extremely efficient when it comes to shopping for preschool and camp programs. Her ability to budget effectively has been instrumental in continuing to provide a top-tier experience for both children and staff. Additionally, Aimee fosters strong communication with parents, keeping them informed of their child’s progress and always being available to discuss any concerns. She has become a trustworthy figure to the parents in Growing Tree Preschool, as well as her team members.

Aimee is a highly collaborative team member, always willing to go the extra mile – even coming in after hours to fix the laminator. She has been a part of multiple cross-departmental committees and meetings, consistently sharing ideas and best practices to improve Gurnee Park District policies and procedures. Notably, Aimee played an essential part in advocating for and implementing PTO for all part-time staff during her time as a committee member.

Aimee’s hard work, exceptional organizational skills, dedication, and continuous pursuit of elevating everything she does make her an invaluable part of not only Growing Tree Preschool, but Gurnee Park District as a whole. With this said, we are thrilled to recognize Aimee as this year’s recipient of the SOFIE Part-Time Employee of the Year Award.

As I sit down to write this final message as Executive Director of the Gurnee Park District, my mind is filled with memories that span nearly three decades. It’s hard to believe that 27 years have passed since I first joined the District. Now, as I prepare to retire on April 30, 2025, I find myself reflecting on the many moments, milestones, and meaningful connections that have shaped this incredible journey.

As a small child growing up in the southern part of India, I was not exposed to all that parks and recreation had to offer. Perhaps that’s why each new park we have developed or re-developed here in Gurnee has carried such a deep, personal meaning for me. Every playground filled with children’s laughter, every trail explored by families, and every community event has brought a sense of joy and fulfillment. I have been especially grateful to see my own children—Josh, Danny, and Jessica—experience firsthand the beauty of parks and recreation in this vibrant community.

Working and living in the same community for nearly three decades, I’ve had the honor of seeing Gurnee grow and transform. Through challenges and successes, this community has consistently shown its support, making my role as Executive Director both rewarding and enjoyable. My time here has been more than a career; it has been a way of life, one that has brought immense personal and professional growth. The connections, friendships, and memories I’ve built along the way will remain with me forever.

One of the greatest blessings in my career has been the opportunity to work with a dedicated Board and an exceptional team. The passion, creativity, and commitment they have shown are the backbone of the Gurnee Park District’s success. As I step away, I know that the District is in excellent hands. I am confident that the Board and the talented team in place will continue to carry the vision forward and keep improving the quality of life in Gurnee.

I am excited to announce that Michael “Mike” Szpylman will be taking over as the new Executive Director, effective May 1, 2025. Mike has been a vital part of our organization for 14 years, serving as the Director of Business Services. His dedication, expertise, and leadership have been instrumental in the District’s progress, and I am confident that under his guidance, the Gurnee Park District will continue to thrive.

Although I am retiring, I won’t be going far. My family and I plan to remain in Gurnee, watching the District grow and evolve. While my role may be changing, my love for this community and the memories built around it will always stay with me. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of your lives and for sharing this journey with me. I am and will always be eternally grateful for your support and kindness.

With gratitude,

Susie Kuruvilla, CPA, CPRP

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of James “Jim” Goshorn, Gurnee Park District Board President; a devoted leader, mentor, and friend who left us after a courageous battle with cancer on February 13, 2025 at the age of 69. Jim’s strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the Gurnee Park District, his family and community will never be forgotten.

Jim was a beloved member of the Gurnee community and served as a commissioner for the Gurnee Park District for 15 years. He began his journey as a volunteer sports coach and a dedicated supporter of the “Friends of Gurnee Park District Foundation” in the early 1990s. In 2009, Jim was elected to the Park Board, where he served as Secretary until 2013, and then as President until his death. As President, he led with vision, integrity, and passion, overseeing countless initiatives that enhanced the Park District and enriched the lives of local residents.

During his time on the Board, Jim’s commitment to fostering growth, inclusivity, and opportunities for all residents was evident in every project he championed and every decision he made. Jim played an integral role in the advancement of key facilities, including the Hunt Club Park Community Center and Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center. In 2013, Jim’s leadership was essential in the acquisition of the former Gold’s Gym, which was transformed into the thriving FitNation we know today. His commitment to enhancing our community was evident in the numerous park renovations, playground upgrades, and trail improvements he supported. In addition, Jim’s dedication ensured the continued expansion of recreational programs, making a lasting impact on the lives of residents for generations to come.

Jim was always proud of the Gurnee Park District and served the District as a “model Board President” who always based his decisions on the “big picture” and the vision of the District. He was an exceptional speaker who captured the audience anytime he was speaking in front of a crowd. 

Outside of his service to the Gurnee Park District, Jim was a devoted spouse, parent, friend, and proud Gurnee native, always guiding others with compassion, wisdom, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of those around him. He had an incredible ability to bring people together, inspire progress, and leave things better than he found them.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife Mary Beth, children Allyson and Christopher, as well as many friends, colleagues, and community members who will forever remember his dedication and contributions.

Jim’s leadership, warmth, and generosity will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to thrive in the parks, programs, and people he touched.

Gurnee Park District is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael “Mike” Szpylman as its new Executive Director, effective May 1, 2025. Mike will succeed Susie Kuruvilla, who will be retiring after 27 years of service with Gurnee Park District on April 30, 2025.

Mike has been an integral part of the Gurnee Park District since October 2010, serving as the Director of Business Services and Treasurer. His leadership in developing long-term financial strategies has supported critical capital improvement projects and helped the District achieve recognition through GFOA awards for financial reporting and budget presentation. Beyond financial management, Mike has played a pivotal role in many of the District’s most significant projects, including the acquisition and operational planning of FitNation as well as being the co-lead on the development and implementation of the current Comprehensive Strategic Master Plan.

With over 20 years of leadership, financial management, and strategic planning experience, Mike brings a wealth of expertise to the Executive Director position. Prior to joining the Gurnee Park District, he held key financial leadership roles, including Finance Director/Treasurer for the Village of Kronenwetter, Wisconsin, and Vice President of Finance and Administration at Topgolf USA.

“I am truly honored to be given the opportunity to serve as Executive Director of Gurnee Park District and continue the legacy of excellence established at the District,” said Mike. “I am committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and community engagement while honoring the District’s mission of ‘enriching community through fun and nature’ and upholding its core values.”

Mike, his wife Vicki, and their three daughters, Emily, Natalie, and Audrey all share a passion for Gurnee Park District. For many years, Mike’s family has been actively involved in various programs and events, fostering a deep connection to the community.

Gurnee Park District’s Board of Commissioners expresses confidence in Mike’s ability to lead the organization into this next chapter of success. “We are excited to work with Mike as we continue to enrich the lives of our community members through exceptional recreational experiences,” said James Goshorn, Board President.

Winter – it is a special time of year. From the first snow to twinkling lights that brighten long, cold nights, the winter season can be truly magical. Despite the chill in the air, winter brings a warmth of togetherness, adventure, and beauty. Whether through visiting our outdoor parks and events or taking refuge in a new program or fitness journey, we offer plenty of ways to make this season comforting and inviting for all.

Here at Gurnee Park District, we take pride in our outdoor parks, with the winter season holding no exception. As the snow begins to fall, watch as our parks suddenly emerge into winter wonderlands, ready to be explored by all. This year, our Parks Team was excited to transform our Viking and Esper Petersen Park locations with the magic of holiday light displays, the perfect backdrop for family photo sessions, or even a quiet nighttime stroll. As the season continues, we look forward to snow days at Christine Thompson Park’s sled hill, or ice skating at the Betty Russell Park ice rink. With 28 park locations, it’s easy to immerse yourself in the beauty of winter.

Staying active during the winter can be difficult, but we have some ideas to make it easier. If you like to be outside, consider joining our GO Gurnee Walking Club. Each Saturday morning, this group of walking enthusiasts bundle up to meet at various parks and preserves in Gurnee and throughout Lake County. Each walk includes miles of warm conversation, beautiful scenery, and plenty of adventure. For those who would rather stay indoors, head over to FitNation. FitNation offers all of the tools to lead an active lifestyle year-round, including a wide range of options for all fitness levels. With adult, senior, student, and teen memberships, the whole family can make staying active a priority this winter.

Looking for more ways to get the entire family involved this winter? Visit one of our special events! After the holidays pass by, gear up for one of our favorite winter traditions – Frosty Fest on Saturday, January 4. From horse-drawn carriage rides to ice sculptures, games, and crafts, Frosty Fest promises to bring fun for the whole family to enjoy.

So, whether it be getting outside to one of our parks, staying active by trying something new, or visiting one of our winter events, make sure to embrace the beauty around you this winter season.
From all of us here at Gurnee Park District, thank you as always for your continued support. We wish you and yours a joyous holiday season and we look forward to providing more fun in the new year to come.

Susie Kuruvilla, CPA, CPRP
Executive Director

As we head into the busy month of December, we wanted to wish you and yours a very happy holiday season! We thank you for your continued support throughout the year and we look forward to providing more FUN this month and in the months ahead!

December will be filled with plenty of opportunities for you and your family to get out and celebrate the season! Please see below for what’s to come!­­

2024-2025 WINTER PROGRAM AND EVENTS – REGISTER TODAY!

Registration is NOW OPEN for our upcoming 2024-2025 winter programs and events!

Start planning today!

2025 HUNT CLUB PARK AQUATIC CENTER SEASON PASSES – ON SALE NOW!­­­

Give the gift of summer fun this holiday season! Purchase your 2025 Aquatic Center season passes at the lowest rates of the season from now until 12/31!

FOLLOW US!

We love to share all the FUN taking place at Gurnee Park District! From photos and videos from our events and programs, reminders and recaps, program updates, and so much more, we’re always keeping you up-to-date.

Stay in the know and follow us today by clicking the links below:

HOLIDAY LIGHTS – 12/5

Join us to kick off the holidays with a festive holiday light display! The Gurnee Park District, in partnership with the Village of Gurnee and the Village of Gurnee Chamber of Commerce, proudly presents “Holiday Lights” at Welton Plaza (Old Grand Avenue)!

We’ll have firepits, s’mores, and hot chocolate* to keep you warm, craft stations with cookie and donut decorating to keep you busy, live ice sculpting, a DJ playing holiday music throughout the event, and much more! Special guests include Gurnee Park District Above the Barre Dance Team, Gurnee Mayor, Tom Hood, your favorite “Elf” and his sidekick, Jovie, as well as everyone’s favorite holiday duo – Mr. and Mrs. Claus!
*hot chocolate is provided courtesy of our event sponsor, Forest Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry!

NEW this year – a commemorative “Holiday Lights” mug will be given to the first 200 children who visit with Santa! 

FREE pizza will be available from Jimanos Pizza of Gurnee (while supplies last)!

Want to help those in need this holiday season? Staff will be collecting non-perishable food items for the Northern Illinois Food Bank during the event. Please bring your donations to help make a difference in our community!

When: Thursday, December 5
5:30-7:30pm (Welton Plaza)

Special thank you to our sponsors, Gurnee Community Bank, Forest Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Honey Orthodontics, and DCFS. 

MONTHLY MIXER – 12/10

Celebrate the holidays with a lunch of salad, pork loin, mashed potatoes, vegetables, salad, and dessert. Musical entertainment by the “Lake Shore Singers” who will entertain with some favorite tunes for the Holidays.

Feel free to bring a $6.00 or less wrapped gift for the gift exchange game!

11:30am – 1:00pm
Viking Park | 4374 Old Grand Avenue
Ages: 55+
Fee: $10

Registration deadline is Thursday, December 5.

WINTER BREAK DAYS OFF SCHOOL – 12/23 – 1/6

Winter Break is coming! Keep the kids busy with our Days Off School Programs! We have a variety of FUN activities planned for each day. Sign up today; spaces are limited!

HOLIDAY FACILITY HOURS

Please see below for our upcoming holiday facility hours:

Tuesday, December 24

• Hunt Club Park Community Center – CLOSED
• Viking Park Community Center – CLOSED
• FitNation on Nations Drive – 7:00am – 12:00pm

Wednesday, December 25

• Hunt Club Park Community Center – CLOSED
• Viking Park Community Center – CLOSED
• FitNation on Nations Drive – CLOSED

Tuesday, December 31

• Hunt Club Park Community Center – 7:00am – 12:00pm
• Viking Park Community Center – CLOSED
• FitNation on Nations Drive – 7:00am – 3:00pm

Wednesday, January 1

• Hunt Club Park Community Center – CLOSED
• Viking Park Community Center – CLOSED
• FitNation on Nations Drive – 10:00am – 5:00pm

PARK HIGHLIGHT – VIKING PARK

This month’s Park Highlight is all about Viking Park! This expansive park, located off Old Grand Avenue, features not one, but TWO engaging playgrounds, paved and gravel walking paths, multiple sports courts, a challenging skate park, as well as indoor and outdoor rental spaces, and plenty of picturesque backdrops for every season!

As we head into the month of December, prepare for Viking Park to be transformed into a magical winter wonderland, complete with welcoming light tunnels and festive light displays. Feel free to take a stroll, and maybe a quick photo session, too!

UPCOMING JANUARY EVENTS:

FROSTY FEST – 1/4

Enjoy an unforgettable day of FREE outdoor family fun at Viking Park! Horse-drawn sleigh rides, iceless ice skating, and other festive winter games and crafts will be available outdoors at this winter festival. Don’t forget to warm up with hot cocoa or coffee in the Dance Hall.

When: Saturday, January 4

Time: 10:30am – 1:00pm

Where: Viking Park | 4374 Old Grand Avenue

Thank you to our sponsor, Honey Orthodontics, for making this event possible!

GROWING TREE PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSES – 1/22 & 1/23

See how we learn and grow at Growing Tree Preschool! Whether your child currently attends or you are considering enrolling in the upcoming school year, our Open Houses provide parents the opportunity to learn about our program philosophy and curriculum. Parents can also enroll their children in the upcoming school year with a discounted registration fee.

Open Houses will take place from 6:00-7:00pm on:

Wednesday, January 22 at Hunt Club Park Community Center (preschool classrooms)
Thursday, January 23 at Viking Park Community Center (preschool classroom)

NEW! JUNGLE JUMP AND SPLASH – 1/17 Get ready for a wildly fun time this winter at FitNation’s jungle-themed splash-tastic pool party! Jump into an evening of exciting games, fantastic prizes, and delicious snacks and drinks. While animal print swimsuits are encouraged, they’re not required—just bring your enthusiasm! Don’t miss out on the fun—mark your calendars and join us for a roaring good time!

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Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job? We’re hiring!
Available positions include:

Aquatics Supervisor (FT)
Basketball Scorekeeper (PT)
Customer Service Representative (PT)
Facility Maintenance I (PT)
FitNation Childcare Coordinator (PT)
Member Services Staff at FitNation (PT)
Personal Trainer (PT)
Trades and Construction Supervisor (FT)
And MORE!

Click here for more information!

Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!

It is with both immense gratitude and heartfelt admiration that the Gurnee Park District announces the retirement of our Executive Director, Susie Kuruvilla, effective April 30, 2025. Susie has been a cornerstone of the District since joining as Director of Business Services in June 1997. Over her 27-year tenure, including 18 years as Executive Director, Susie’s commitment and leadership have left a significant mark on the District and the Gurnee community.

With Susie at the helm, and the incredible teamwork of the Board and staff, Gurnee Park District has become a vibrant center of activity and community spirit. From the Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center to the Hunt Club Park Community Center, the transformation of Gold’s Gym into FitNation, and the beautiful parks and playgrounds throughout the District, Susie’s leadership has provided us with spaces where fun and fitness thrive.

In 2010, under Susie’s leadership, the District received the National Gold Medal Award for excellence, showcasing the District’s commitment to serving the community at a high standard.

During Susie’s tenure, the District experienced significant growth. Through careful management, financial sustainability has been achieved, while expanded programming has helped to bring new opportunities. Additionally, enhanced teamwork cultivated strong collaborations among District staff, Board members, and community partners.

Beyond Gurnee Park District, Susie has been a dedicated advocate and leader in the field of Parks and Recreation. She served on several Boards and Committees, including as Treasurer of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), Judge for the National Gold Medal Award (2015 to 2019), Chair of the Park District Risk Management Agency (PDRMA) Health Benefit Committee, member of the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) Joint Legislative Committee, Board member for Warren Special Recreation Association (WSRA), and Board member for HR Source. These roles have earned Susie respect, solidifying the District’s standing in the field of Parks and Recreation both locally and nationally.

As Susie steps into her next exciting chapter, we celebrate the legacy she leaves behind at Gurnee Park District and in the field of Parks and Recreation. Susie looks forward to traveling the world, achieving her goal of visiting every U.S. National Park, while also spending quality time with family and friends, diving into some good books, and picking up fun new hobbies, confident that “the best is yet to come!”

“Parks and Recreation have profoundly shaped my life,” shares Susie. “Throughout my journey with the Gurnee Park District, I not only grew professionally but also watched my children thrive—participating in programs and exploring our parks and playgrounds. This role has been so much more than a career; it has been a way of life, deeply intertwined with my personal and professional growth.”

Please join us in thanking Susie for nearly three decades of dedicated service to the Gurnee community. While we will miss her leadership, we are excited for what the future holds for both Susie and the Gurnee Park District.

In the months to come, the Park Board will select a new Executive Director to take the District forward.

The Board of Commissioners
Gurnee Park District

What a beautiful fall we’ve been having here in Gurnee! Between the changing colors of the trees and the mild weather, this fall has us feeling all the feels!

As we head into November, a month of gratitude, we wanted to share a quick “thank you” to all of YOU! Thank you for continuing to choose Gurnee Park District for all of your parks and recreation needs. We truly appreciate all of your support, now and always! 

Please see below for what you can expect this upcoming month, as well as what to look forward to next month!

FAMILY ART NIGHT – 11/8

Explore the world of art at Gurnee Park District’s Family Art Night! Whether it’s painting, drawing, or learning something new, the entire family will have an opportunity to participate together and express their creativity!

A dinner of pizza, salad, and cookies will be provided during the event, along with all art supplies and materials. 

Friday, November 8
Hunt Club Community Center
5:30-7:30pm 

Thank you to our sponsor, Honey Orthodontics, for making this event possible!

BLACK FRIDAY FITNATION DEALS (11/29 – 12/1)

Looking to join FitNation Gurnee? Save BIG with our Black Friday Sale: Buy 2 months/get 1 FREE for only $109 (that’s $55 in savings)! Offer available 11/28 (beginning at 8:00pm) -12/1!

Already a current FitNation Member? – get ready for our Black Friday Personal Training sale! Receive 10 Personal Training sessions for only $250! Offer available 11/29-12/2!

For more information, please see a Member Services Staff Member!

YOUTH BASKETBALL LEAGUES (3^RD-8^TH GRADES) BEGIN 11/25!

Looking for ways to keep the kiddos active this winter? Register for our Youth Basketball Leagues! Our leagues focus on the fundamentals of the game, sportsmanship, and, of course, having fun!

THANKSGIVING HOURS (11/28)

As a reminder, we will be operating with limited hours for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday, November 28^th:

• Hunt Club Park Community Center – CLOSED
• Viking Park Community Center – CLOSED (11/28 & 11/29)
• FitNation on Nations Drive – 7:00am – 12:00pm

We hope everyone has an amazing holiday with family and friends!

PARK HIGHLIGHT – HUNT CLUB PARK

This month’s Park Highlight is all about Hunt Club Park! Hunt Club Park, located off of Hunt Club Road, offers plenty of ways to stay busy all year long! Take a stroll down the paved trail system, which covers more than a mile of twists and turns around the park’s most stunning views. Or, play the day away at the mud-free playground! During the warmer months, you can also pass the time reeling in a large bass or bluegill at the fishing pond.

No matter the season, Hunt Club Park is a great place to be!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mark your calendars for added FUN next month!

FREE HOLIDAY LIGHTS (12/5)

Kick off the holiday season at our 3rd annual “Holiday Lights” event at Welton Plaza (Old Grand Avenue)! We’ll have firepits, hot cocoa*, and s’mores to keep you warm, craft stations to keep you busy, and much more!
*hot cocoa will be provided courtesy of our event sponsor, Forest Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry!

Special guests include Gurnee Park District Above the Barre Dance Team, Gurnee Mayor, Tom Hood, and everyone’s favorite holiday duo – Mr. and Mrs. Claus! 

Thursday, December 5
5:30 – 7:30pm
Welton Plaza on Old Grand Avenue (next to Gurnee Community Church)

Special thank you to our sponsors, Gurnee Community Bank, Forest Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, Honey Orthodontics, and DCFS!

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA (12/7)

Santa Claus is coming to Gurnee! Enjoy a delicious breakfast followed by a meet and greet with the big guy himself! Make sure to bring your cameras to capture these unforgettable memories for years to come!

3 seating times are available:
8:00 – 9:15am
9:30 – 10:45am
11:00am – 12:15pm

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Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job? We’re hiring!
Available positions include:

Basketball Scorekeeper (PT)
Customer Service Representative (PT)
FitNation Childcare Coordinator (PT)
FitNation Fitness Attendant (PT)
FitNation Group Exercise Instructor (PT)
Personal Trainer (PT)

Click here for more information!

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STAY CONNECTED

We’ve been busy, and we like to share all the FUN! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay up-to-date with daily park happenings, news, and more!

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Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!

Here at Gurnee Park District, we take pride in being the first step toward a love for sports, especially in our young female athletes. With professional female athletes like Caitlin Clark, Alex Morgan, and Simone Biles making their mark, providing a variety of sports options to allow young girls to discover and identify their passions has never been more important. Through athletic programs such as basketball, soccer, t-ball, tennis, gymnastics, or dance, we aim to teach young girls not just the game or sport, but also the ability to dream big, whatever their interests may be.

And we are not alone. Gurnee Park District is proud to partner with our local high school, Warren Township High School (WTHS), to prepare aspiring female athletes for the next step in their athletic journeys. As community partners, we value the importance of championing our female athletes, from their first step on a court or field to the cheers of a high school gymnasium and beyond.

Jennifer Swanson, the WTHS Girls Varsity Basketball Head Coach, knows the importance of girls’ sports. Swanson grew up playing many different sports, such as basketball, softball, soccer, and more since she was 4 years old. As she grew older, she continued her athletic journey, playing volleyball, basketball, and track at Oak Forest High School, and went on to play basketball at North Central College. “I wanted to be involved in as many sports as I could,” said Swanson. “I just loved to play.”

As this year’s new varsity head coach, Swanson brings her love for sports to center court, imparting the value of girl’s athletics to the Gurnee Community by emphasizing the essential skills sports teach to young female athletes, such as:

Self-Confidence and Perseverance: Participating in competitive sports teaches female athletes more than just a game. “Sports help to show young girls that they are capable of doing anything that they put their minds to,” shared Swanson. “This empowerment translates to increased confidence in their abilities to lead and make decisions in various aspects of their lives.”

Teamwork and Unity: Joining a team teaches young female athletes about cooperation, communication, and respect. “Learning how to work with others is very important for young female athletes,” emphasized Swanson. “It is a skill that will help them to be successful in the future.”

Determination: Facing and overcoming life’s challenges is a part of sports and beyond. “In my personal opinion, resiliency and determination are two of the most important qualities in order to be successful,” stated Swanson, “In life, there will always be challenges that hold you back from achieving everything you want in life, but when you are resilient and determined, you can push through those challenges.”

Lifelong Skills: No matter the sport, young female athletes are destined to learn more than just the skills of a game. “I believe that sports can teach many different qualities that will help young female athletes in the future,” said Swanson. “Some of the ones that I believe are the most important are patience, resiliency, discipline, time management, team work, and organization.”

How can young girls get started in their athletic journey? “My advice would be to get involved in as many sports/activities as possible at an early age,” noted Swanson. “Not only will it help you find what sports you are most passionate about, but it will also teach you different skills that will help make you more successful in the future.”

So, to every girl dreaming of her moment in the spotlight, and to every parent supporting that dream, Gurnee Park District, along with Warren Township High School, is ready to be with you every step of the way. Here’s to dreaming BIG.  

Please visit our websites for more information on our sports programs and how you can get involved.