Crystal is a Recreation Director in the Town of Kyle, Saskatchewan. She has worked as a volunteer and a professional in recreation, sport and culture for the past 19 years. Crystal received her diploma in Recreation Administration from Red Deer College in 1997, and achieved a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Recreation Administration from the University of Alberta in 1999.
We asked Crystal a few questions about what recreation means to her, and why she loves working in the field. Here's what she had to say:
What does recreation mean to you? 
To me, recreation is a vital part of personal and community well- being. I have always believed every dollar spent in recreation and sport is money saved in healthcare.
What do you love about working in recreation?
I love working in recreation because recreation & sport facilities, and the events they host, are the hub of every community. Who doesn’t want to work in a place that deals in leisure time?
Why is recreation so vital to communities in Saskatchewan?
Recreation is a vital part of all communities, but in Saskatchewan it is especially important due to our rural population. Every small town in Saskatchewan has a rink or community hall and they all are acutely aware of the importance of those facilities. Travel can be a huge barrier for people to participate, but the spirit of small town Saskatchewan allows them to have opportunities right in their own back yard. That’s another reason I love working in this province and in this profession.
Recreation Professionals Week is June 18-24, 2018 in Saskatchewan.
For more information on Recreation Professionals, visit sarponline.ca.
