Rockford Park District

GoRockford and Rockford Park District are excited to welcome back the AAU Grand Prix Club Volleyball Rockin’ Rockford tournament, which continues to grow and make a significant impact on the region. This year’s event will bring over 10,000 visitors, generate more than 2,000 hotel room nights, and contribute an estimated $812,585 in economic impact to Rockford. With over 340 teams competing—an increase of 65 teams from 2024—the tournament has nearly doubled in size. To accommodate this growth, matches will be played across two locations on March 8-9: UW Health Sports Factory (courts 1-16) and Mercyhealth Sportscore Two (courts 17-43). Now in its eighth year, Rockin’ Rockford has become one of the largest AAU Grand Prix volleyball events in the Midwest, reinforcing Rockford’s reputation as a premier sports tourism destination. "We are incredibly proud to see Rockin’ Rockford continue to grow, attracting more top-tier volleyball teams each year," said Lindsay Arellano, Vice President of Sales & Service at GoRockford. "This expansion is a testament to the tournament’s success, and we are pleased to see the event now requiring two venues to accommodate its increasing size." The success of this tournament highlights the strength of Rockford’s sports facilities, the dedication of event organizers, and the local community’s role in supporting large-scale athletic competitions that bring significant economic and cultural benefits to the region.

Summer fun is on the way! ?? The Sports & Rec, Summer Camps, and Therapeutic Recreation program guides are now available online. Printed copies can be found at Rockford Park District Customer Service locations (UW Health Sports Factory & Carlson Ice Arena)! You can also find limited copies at select Park District facilities. ?? https://lnkd.in/gS5DBGbf

SCHOLARSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT Through the generosity of two very special women, the Rockford Park District Foundation has the privilege of awarding two scholarships each year to girls that have been impacted by the game of golf. By applying, you are automatically eligible for both scholarships. Deadline is May 1. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/gg4VCTAe

Each year, the Rockford Park District provides hundreds of recreational opportunities for youth, including camps, sports leagues, lessons, programs, and events across our parks and facilities. We’re proud to serve over 30,000 kids annually, helping them learn, stay active, and have fun! ??

Home Run! There’s a lot to celebrate this week regarding plans to build a permanent home base for Buddy Baseball and All Stars Baseball programs. We are also beyond excited to share that an anonymous donor has generously contributed $1,000,000 to help develop a new home base at Darryl F. Lindberg Park in Loves Park! And…Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners approved a construction contract for the restroom, storage, and picnic shelter building materials. Renovating Darryl Lindberg Park will provide athletes with a location where they can swing for the fences and round the bases in a diamond that is adapted for their success. We can’t wait to break ground on this one-of-a-kind inclusive and accessible ball field.

Don't miss any of the fun this year! Sign up for e-mails about upcoming events and programs. https://ctct.me/rpdfun/

Ever wondered how much your Rockford Park District does in a year?

?? Behind the scenes! Today, local media visited us at the Perks Family Equine Center to learn about our new Equine Assisted Services (EAL). Through guided horse observation, interaction, and handling, usually in a group setting, EAL helps participants build essential life skills such as confidence, emotional regulation, communication, and a positive mindset, while also supporting mental and emotional well-being. The Perks Family Equine Center was funded in part through Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board (#WCCMHB) with the half-cent sales tax voted on by county residents. Thank you to 13 WREX, WIFR TV, Eyewitness News, Rock River Current for visiting today! Keep an eye out for their coverage, with some stories airing during tonight’s newscast.

Happy Super Bowl Sunday! ?? Did you know the Rockford Park District maintains 4,855 acres of land for our community to enjoy? That’s about 3,671 football fields! The largest park or facility we care for is Anna R. Page Park, which is 959.78 acres in total! (Including the Conservation Forest/Dry Dam)

Congratulations Derricka Davis, Rockford Park District Operations Director who received a 2025 Rockford Legacy of Service Award from the Blackhawk Area Council. Thank you for inspiring our next generation, developing future leaders, serving your community, and helping people to enjoy life!