Goodyear Parks & Recreation Receives Two Statewide Awards

Goodyear Parks & Recreation received two Best of the Best Awards from the Arizona Parks & Recreation Association (APRA) on Sept. 1, recognizing the Goodyear Sharks Swim Team and Moving Forward programs.

"Winning state-level awards is a testament to the quality of parks and recreation services provided to Goodyear residents," said Parks and Recreation Director David Lopez. "It means Goodyear programs are recognized by peer cities in Arizona as the best in class among over 100 statewide submissions. This team's top priority is to provide our community with the highest level of service and ensure we are meeting their needs - setting the bar is the standard they hold themselves to every day."

The department received the Outstanding Aquatics Program Award for the Goodyear Sharks Swim Team, which serves 320 youth athletes with support from 16 coaches and more than 1,200 volunteer hours. The program fosters confidence, friendships and a love of swimming, earning a 100 percent participant satisfaction rate.

Additionally, the Outstanding Adaptive Program Award recognized Moving Forward, a partnership with the Agua Fria High School District that provides students with hands-on vocational experiences focused on independence and job readiness. Students gain valuable workplace skills and have successfully secured employment through the program.

The awards highlight the dedication of Goodyear Parks & Recreation staff, coaches, volunteers and community partners who help make these programs successful and create lasting opportunities for residents.