Gilbert Parks and Recreation Wins Two Awards at APRA Conference

Gilbert, Ariz- Gilbert Parks and Recreation earned two honors last week at the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association's (APRA) 76th Annual Conference & Expo in Phoenix. George Tole, Recreation Coordinator at Cactus Yards Sports Complex, was named Young Professional of the Year, and the complex's indoor youth soccer program was recognized as Outstanding Sports Program.

Both awards trace back to Tole's nine years at Cactus Yards, which he's helped grow into a six-time USSSA Arizona Outstanding Park of the Year winner and a 2021 national USSSA Complex of the Year. The youth soccer program he launched now serves more than 2,050 kids a year at full capacity, with inclusive clinics for waitlisted players and a special-needs camp pulling an 88% recommendation rate.

Tole also chairs APRA's Young Professional committee and was personally asked by the APRA President to co-chair this year's conference.

APRA's Annual Conference & Expo brings together parks and recreation professionals from across the state and recognizes standout communities and leaders through its awards program each year.