Coaches weigh in on June hoops recruiting event
The NCAA and NFHS are teaming up to plan a June basketball evaluation and recruiting event for Florida high school athletes, but not everyone’s invited.
The FHSAA released a statement Monday about the organizations’ move to develop criteria to exclude girls and non-FHSAA athletes from the event, which did not fly with the FHSAA.
“In future years, it is the Association’s hope the NCAA and NFHS will invite the FHSAA into its discussions to further develop the idea and extend the opportunity provided there is equality for all student-athletes wishing to participate,” the FHSAA said in the statement.
The exclusions were also not well-received by area coaches.
“Fear becomes reality,” Plant City boys basketball coach Billy Teeden said on Twitter. “Where will our athletes be seen… more college coaches will have to depend on 3rd (sic) parties to get their recruiting information.”
“Yet multiple football recruiting fairs,” Strawberry Crest wrestling coach Will Terry replied. “Throughout the state.”
The FHSAA recommended the Florida Association of Basketball Coaches host the event, but that was denied.
Optimist soccer season kicks off
The 43rd season of the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department/Optimist Youth Soccer Program started up Tuesday evening at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex.
This year, PCRPD reported 1,248 kids between ages 4 and 18 have registered to play on 98 teams in the league. The eight-game season runs through May 18 and does not include Easter weekend.
Tennis lessons
Registration for April lessons at the Plant City Tennis Center is now open.
The center is offering lessons for singles and team players age 4 and older beginning as early as April 1. Lessons are held in the late afternoon to early evening once to twice per week between Mondays and Thursdays. Registration closes Mar. 30 and other programs and leagues are available year-round. Open play can be scheduled during available time slots by contacting the Tennis Center.
To sign up, visit the tennis center at 120 N. Wilder Road. Lesson costs vary by class and age. For more information, call 813-707-7485 or email C. Shane Johnson at sjohnson@plantcitygov.com.
Sign up for YMCA summer camp
The Plant City Family YMCA is accepting registrations for its new and improved summer camp program.
All Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA locations have undergone changes to their summer camp programs, bringing more fun and educational activities to the table and offering before-care and after-care activities. Activities include swimming, science, outdoor education, nature encounters, visual arts and more. Hillsborough County Public Schools will provide free breakfast and lunch as part of the Summer Food Program.
The program runs from June 3 – August 2 and is open to all kids in the community ages 18 and under, including Y campers. To register, visit tampaymca.org/letscamp.