By Sarah Hall

Editor

The town of Clay’s summer programs are winding down. Last week marked the end of the popular summer playground program, as staff members readied for their return to school. 

Now, Parks and Recreation Department employees are in planning mode for fall and winter. That means sports camps for kids, leagues for adults, art programs and more—with more to come when the leaves fall.

Kids’ sports camps

If your kids are preparing for their next sports season, the town may have a program to help.

The C-NS Freshman Football Camp runs from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 24, through Friday, Aug. 26 at North Syracuse Junior High School. Coached by Rich Mancabelli and H. Harbold, the camp costs $35. Registration forms are available at the Clay Recreation Office or by contacting [email protected].

Any middle school athlete looking to improve endurance and strength can take part in the Warrior Boys/Girls Pre-Season Conditioning Camp. Available to any student entering seventh or eighth grade in the fall, the camp runs from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Aug. 22, 23, 25, 29, 30 and Sept. 1 at the LHS Annex. Fee is $65. Coached by Tracey Vannatta, Andrew Dionne and Tom Jones. Register at the recreation office or contact [email protected].

For younger athletes, the fall session of the Northstars Little Sprinters for ages 4 to 9 will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays from Sept. 12 to Oct. 10 at the North Syracuse Junior High School track. The fee of $50 ($40 for each additional sibling) includes a camp t-shirt. Registration forms are available at the Clay Recreation Office or by contacting Coach J. Przybylski at [email protected].

All ages and abilities can participate in the town’s youth swim and tennis programs. Visit townofclay.org for full schedules and fees; a few sessions remain before the fall program starts.

Adult fitness programs

Adults in rehabilitation for an injury, who are new to fitness or older adults can try out Gentle Fusion Fitness, which incorporates small weights, stretching, Pilates, yoga, Tai Chi Chuan and light cardio. Participants should bring a yoga mat, light weights and a hand towel, if you have them. The program is led by Florence Drago, a certified dance and fitness professional. Gentle Fusion Fitness meets from 9 to 10 a.m. or 4:45 to 5:45 pm. every Tuesday and Thursday monthly at Clay Town Hall, 4401 Route 31, Clay; choose one day or both. The fee is $20 for one day a month or $35 two days a month. Classes are also offered evenings on demand; call for more information.

Another minimal-impact workout is available through Tai Chi Fitness, which involves slow-motion routines and low-impact exercises to help with stress management, balance, circulations and memory cognition. Loose fitting clothes required. The program is led by Blair Campbell, master instructor. Classes meet from 9 to 10 a.m. every Monday and Wednesday monthly at Clay Town Hall, 4401 Route 31, Clay; choose one day or both. The fee is $20 for one day a month or $35 two days a month.

If you’re looking for something a little faster-paced, check out Zumba Fitness, a Latin-inspired dance program as an innovative muscle training program with the addition of light weight toning sticks for total body conditioning. No previous dance or Zumba experience necessary. The program is led by Jeanne Vinette, certified Zumba instructor. The class meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday and/or Wednesday (choose one or two days a week) at the old Clay Town Hall, 4483 Route 31, Clay. The eight-week summer session runs through Aug. 29. Cost is $40 for one day a week or $65 for two days a week.

Looking for an organized league? Softball, basketball and volleyball league registrations will be held in September. Returning leagues should contact Scott Paulding, adult league coordinator, at 546-4287, to register. For more information, go to the Recreation tab at townofclay.org and click on the Adult Leagues link.

And more….

Painting in the Air Class teaches participants how to illustrate the sound of music, as well as offering instruction on new artists from history and new ways of incorporating live music into art. Also instructed by Kara Cook, with music provided by Billy Harrison. See townofclay.org for different program dates, ages and fees.

To register for any of these programs or if you have any questions, call Florence Drago at the Town of Clay Parks and Recreation Department at 652-3800 ext. 139 or email [email protected]. Please fill out separate registration waiver forms and check for each individual program. Check townofclay.org/recreation or Facebook.com/Town-of-Clay-Recreation for additional programs.