Published November 28, 2018

By DAN TOMASELLO

LYNNFIELD — Lynnfield Recreation recently honored local children who participated in the inaugural “Kids Can Run” program.

“We believe all children should be afforded the opportunity to enjoy physical fitness and the wonderment of sport,” said Recreation Commission Chairman Rich Sjoberg.  “To that end, Lynnfield Recreation offered an inclusive track and field exploratory program for children of all ages and abilities this fall. Nearly forty children showed up weekly since the opening day back in September to celebrate Lynnfield’s new track, sport and the spirit of inclusion.”

Coach Lori Mitchener said, “Each session began with warm-up conditioning and a fun lap to prepare for the day’s opportunities of sprints, javelin throws, hurdles, long jumps and relay running.”

“Each discipline was overseen by one of 10 local students who volunteered their time weekly to ensure safe instruction and help the young athletes transition from event to event,” said Mitchener.  “A rousing game of ‘infection,’ a modern version of tag, signaled the close each day.  The children darted around the infield after one another laughing and strategizing, all while unknowingly working on anaerobic strength. A final set of cool down stretches and a high five ‘to a new friend you’ll see next week’ was the signature end of each session, underscoring the sense of camaraderie and community the program strives to build in our youth.”

LYNNFIELD RECREATION presented medals to the participants in the inaugural “Kids Can Run” program recently. (Courtesy Photo)

Parent Susan Parziale noted the Kids Can Run program started after a Peabody-based special needs running group was cancelled in 2017.   

“I was in search of a new program for my 15-year-old daughter Jenna,” said Parziale. “Jenna has autism and having her participate in neurotypical programs comes with much difficulty. Feeling defeated that a new running program might not happen in 2018, Selectman Christopher Barrett reached out to Lynnfield Recreation Commission Chairman Richard Sjoberg and Director Julie Mallett to assist in having a new all-inclusive running group in Lynnfield. And just like that, Lynnfield Recreation’s ‘Kids Can Run’ came to life.”

Parziale said Mitchener has been an “amazing coach.” She also thanked the community for supporting the program.

“Having a child in out-of-district placement can be isolating for families, leaving them feeling left out of the community,” said Parziale. “I am truly blessed that this inclusive program has been brought to my town. In addition to Christopher, Richard and Julie, I am truly grateful to all the teen volunteers and parents who assisted in making Lynnfield Recreation’s Kids Can Run a huge success.”

Sjoberg noted Lynnfield Recreation believes its critically important to “continually provide all-inclusive programs for children of all abilities.”

“In the world we live in today, we recognize programs like these are so important to give kids and young adults with intellectual disabilities a chance to be all that they can be,” said Sjoberg. “And it gave everyone an experience that they will cherish forever. Lynnfield Recreation is excited to continue this program in the spring.”

Mitchener agreed.

“When the snow clears, Kids Can Run hopes to have many more high fives as we run, jump and throw again in the spring,” she said.