YMCA REOPENS ITS OROVILLE FACILITIES
OROVILLE >> After the suspension of the majority of its programs for about a year due to the pandemic, the Oroville YMCA reopened its pool on Wednesday and the rest of its programs will be back in full swing next week.
“We’re super excited to see everybody again. We’ve really missed the community, the people,” said Sara Pierce, program director.
Even the rain and cold temperatures on Wednesday morning there was a “good early morning turnout” for the open lap swim, said Pierce.
“Heck yes I’m excited the pool is open again. I came in all hurting, stiff and sore and now, after being in the pool, I’m limber again. It’s great,” said Gary Vincent, a two-year YMCA member.
Water fitness classes will reopen next week at the Y’s headquarters on Robinson Street. Swim lessons will also be starting soon. For parents who want to see if their children are ready for swim lessons, the Y is offering free “give it a try” lessons on March 20 and 27. Advance sign-ups are required. The Y will also be re-staring it’s Porpoise Club, a year-round competitive swim club.
Fitness classes as well as open gym using weights and machines will also be back on the schedule next week but will be taking place at the Oroville Municipal Auditorium.
Through a long-term rental agreement with the city of Oroville the YMCA will be able to offer more program offerings by utilizing the auditorium.
“We’re able to expand what we offer and do more for the community with this rental agreement in place with the city for the auditorium,” said Pierce.
Among the expanded program offerings are open basketball, pickle ball, volley ball, nutrition classes as well as children and adult theater programs.
“We’re also going to offer a retro sports program for kids. We’re going to teach them some fun activities they can play without any real special equipment like hopscotch and hula hooping in case they get isolated again,” said Pierce.
The Y is also launching a flag football program for boys and girls ages 5 to 13 years. The program will run April 3 to May 22 with one practice and one game per week. The deadline for signing up to participate is March 29.
The afterschool program is open again with expanded activities but, said Pierce, the Y will continue to offer child care for families whose children are continuing with distance learning.
On April 3 the Y is bring back Healthy Kids Day. This event, at the municipal auditorium, focuses on healthy nutrition, activities and more specifically aimed at youth Those wishing to have a booth at the event should contact the YMCA.
All programs offered through the Y will be observing COVID safety measures and advance reservations are required for all programs.
“There’s lots and lots going on and more to come,” said Pierce.
Oroville YMCA
For more information and to register for Oroville YMCA programs: Email: spierce@ymcasuperiorcal.org Phone:530-854-4321