June 21, 2004

Princess Anne, MD - The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) will open its doors to the youth of Somerset County for open recreation to children, ages 8-16. This program will be available from June 21 through July 30, 2004, Monday through Friday from 3:00 to 5:00 PM.

"The program is designed to help parents and youth in the county have a fun and safe summer," said Nelson Townsend, Director of Athletics. "We hope it will help keep youth off the streets and provide a safe and fun-filled environment for the young people in our local community."

The program, available to children ages eight through 16 requires written parental approval and assurance that participants will abide by all program regulations. That permission slip must be turned in to the Administrative Offices before the child is issued a pass. That pass will get them in the facility each weekday, from 3-5 PM and must be presented upon entry into the building. Children under eight are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

The program is open to all youth residing in Somerset County and affords the opportunity to use the pool, racquetball courts, basketball courts, and indoor track.

Registration forms may be picked up in person from the main office of the William P. Hytche Athletic Center or downloaded from the website at www.umeshawks.com.

UMES is also hosting the National Youth Sports Program (NYSP) this summer starting on June 28, 2004 and running through August 2, 2004. It will run Monday through Friday from 8:00 am until 3:00 PM daily.

NYSP is open to all youth ages 10-16 in the area. The participants in this program not only receive the excitement of the program and wonderful supervision, but also get an NYSP T-shirt, two (2) approved USDA meals daily, and transportation services. All services are free. The program provides youth with academic and sports skills instruction, and sports competition to improve their physical fitness. It encourages sports participation to improve physical and health habits and will also allow youth to become acquainted with career and educational opportunities.

This year the NYSP program has added a new Senior Program, which is targeted at youth age 13-16 to enhance academic and social preparedness. It teaches reading, writing, computer technology and standardized test taking in order to enhance the academic preparation and readiness of prospective college student-athletes. This year's theme for the Senior Program is "Focus on Respect," as it teaches participants the value of respect; respect for self, others, and the game.

For more information on NYSP registration or for general questions please contact Beatrice A. Nelson, Project Administrator at 410-651-7763.