The Parks and Recreation Department recently had the honor of receiving two prestigious awards. Beyond being a celebration of their achievements, this department stood as a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and the profound impact that nature and outdoor spaces had on the lives of its residents. 

Parks and Recreation Director Cole Stephens humbly acknowledged the department’s accomplishments and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his dedicated staff. He recognized their unwavering commitment and acknowledged they were the reason behind the department’s success and recognition.

Recreation Assistant Kris High highlighted the team’s collaborative efforts in every project, program, or event. She specifically thanked Recreation Coordinator Bryan White, for planning and implementing these awards being received and expressed gratitude to the representatives of the Utah Parks and Recreation Association (UPRA) for their support.

LeeAnn Powell, UPRA Executive Director, proudly shared that the association represented about 1,500 parks and recreation professionals throughout Utah. Each year, prior to their annual conference, UPRA accepts nominations for various award categories. This year, they received an impressive 91 nominations. Powell commended the Kaysville City Parks and Recreation Staff as exemplary leaders in the state, highlighting their inclusive approach to involving the entire community.

Powell said the success of the Parks and Recreation Department wouldn’t be possible without the continued support of the Mayor and City Council. Recognizing the expense associated with offering programs, building parks, and maintaining open spaces, the Mayor and City Council play a vital role in ensuring the department’s endeavors contributed to the health and wellness of the community.

Scott McDonald, UPRA Past-President and Aquatics and Fitness Director for the South Davis Recreation District, acknowledged the challenges that comes with parks and recreation jobs. He emphasized the rewarding nature of making a difference in the community. McDonald commended Kaysville’s Parks and Recreation for their outstanding teamwork and excellence. He said both Cole Stephens and Kris High had served on the UPRA Board, showcasing Kaysville’s active participation in the northern region of the association. McDonald said Kaysville won their first URPA award 25 years ago for the Barnes Park Sportsplex. He said, “Kaysville had previously won five awards from UPRA, and this award being presented will be their sixth.”

McDonald highlighted the difficulty of earning such prestigious awards and said the award presented was for the “Outstanding Program” and specifically recognizing the Family Super Sport Program. “Out of 12 nominations, the past presidents appreciated that this particular program embraced the concept of including the entire family, which is a rarity,” he said. They also commended the programs’ motto: “The family that plays together stays together.”

Katelyn Chambers, the Utah Junior Jazz Representative, announced that it was the 40th season of the Junior Jazz program, which had seen over 2 million participants to date. Kaysville alone had contributed 1,500 participants among the 60,000 from the past season. Kaysville’s Parks and Recreation Department was honored with the prestigious title of “Junior Jazz Community Leader of the Year.” This award was newly introduced, recognizing Kaysville’s exceptional commitment to the Junior Jazz program, as well as their dedication to staff and coach training, encouraging regular practice, and actively supporting the games and community at large. Chambers said Kaysville had initiated collaboration with the Utah Junior Jazz to increase participation of girls in youth sports, and their involvement extended to the National Girls and Women in Sports Day held annually in February.

Kaysville is renowned for its parks and open spaces and vibrant recreational activities and its dedicated staff and elected officials who understand the importance of community health and wellness and their efforts in bringing that community together.