Rec Sports hosts Day of Play

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Recreational Sports will host Day of Play from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15 at the UW Natatorium, 2000 Observatory Drive. Day of Play is a free annual event that introduces kids in grades K-5 to the Rec Sports mantra: “Play Hard. Get Fit. Live Well.”

“Day of Play is structured to encourage everyday physical activity by creating an environment that makes exercise fun,” says Stephanie Bruno, senior facility supervisor at the division. “Our goal is that the participants leave our campus excited about being active and living well.”

Last spring, the Rec Sports Day of Play hosted more than 150 participants. UW Sport Club members ran stations that introduced kids to sport-specific skills for all age groups and abilities. This created an inclusive environment that simultaneously offered learning and fun activities.

“As college students, we don’t usually get to engage with the off-campus community,” Bruno says. “This event provides the division and the students with the opportunity to foster relationships with the Madison community while serving as positive role models for future Badgers.”

This year’s event will feature fall-themed activities and games designed to get kids moving, running, dancing and smiling. The women’s soccer and tae kwon do clubs will be leading drills stations, and the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board will be offering free snacks and giveaways.

“We take so much pride in the fact that it is our own UW–Madison students that have created this program from its inception,” Rec Sports Director John Horn says.  “I think so highly of the program that I bring my own children to it every year. They absolutely love it, and I hope to see many Madison-area families come and spend some time in our facility.”

Register here. Younger siblings are welcome. Free parking is available in lot 62 across from the Natatorium.

—Claire Raddatz