Rec Report Newsletter: February-March 2025

Spring Break Sports Camps

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Soccertron Full Day Camp (7-14 Years)
Soccertron Half Day Camp (6-9 Years and 10-14 Years)
Did you know? Soccertron is one of WSPR’s longest serving sport contractors! Offering summer camps & after-school programs for years, families can now join the fun of Soccertron during spring break. Each day is jam packed with soccer drills and mini-games for extra skill practice. Campers will end each day with swim time, so make sure to bring your bathing suit as well!

Richardson Sport Full Day Multi-Sport Camp (7-10 Years)
Richardson Sport AM Half Day Multi-Sport Camp (4-6 Years)
Richardson Sport PM Half Day Multi-Sport Camp (4-6 Years)
Welcome to RSI multi sports camp! Our camp focuses on building strong FUNdamentals in a welcoming and playful environment. Kids will learn basic skills in various sports such as soccer, basketball, tee ball, football and much more all while improving their physical literacy, enjoying games and activities designed to spark excitement. It's a perfect mix of learning and fun!

Richardson Sport Full Day Street Hockey Camp (7-10 Years)
A new additional to Richardson Sports spring break offerings, come join Richardson Sport the JDF Outdoor Box for some street hockey drills, skills, and games.

Spring Break Skating Lessons

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New this year! 5-day skating lesson camps (6-14 years)
This program gives skaters the opportunity to accelerate their development with condensed lessons and plenty of ice time. Classes include 30 minutes of instruction followed by 20 minutes of guided games and activities to reinforce skills learned that day.

School Age Level 1
School Age Level 2
School Age Level 3-4 Combined
School Age Level 5-6 Combined
Register Now!

Date: March 24-28, 2025
Time: 4:00-4:50PM
Location: Juan de Fuca Arena

First Aid Training Has Arrived in the Westshore

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An exciting new collaboration is bringing programs to Metchosin!
📍 Metchosin Arts and Cultural/Training Centre, 4495 Happy Valley Rd

Featuring:
• New classroom spaces
• Ample free parking
• Qualified instructors — all are emergency responders with the Metchosin Fire Department
• Red Cross Certifications
• Only minutes away from WSPR
• Great food options in the area

Program Highlights:
• Classes need 6 or more to run — Sign up individually or as a group
• Competitive program prices
• Blended courses available — Includes online learning options

Upcoming Programs:

• CPR-C First Aid (Blended) | Ages 12+
  March 4 | 6–9 PM | $75 | Course Code: 17536
  April 1 | 6–9 PM | $75 | Course Code: 17537
   
• Emergency First Aid | Ages 12+
  In Person: February 26 | 8:30 AM–4 PM | $110 | Course Code: 17527
  Blended: March 12 | 8:30 AM–1:30 PM | $110 | Course Code: 17533
   
• Standard First Aid (In Person) | Ages 12+
  April 29–30 | 8:30 AM–4 PM | $175 | Course Code: 17518

Get certified with expert instruction in a convenient, accessible location!
Register now at wspr.ca

New Waitlist Offer/Decline Process

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When a spot becomes available in a course or class, an email notification will now be sent to the first person on the waitlist. A response is required within 48 hours of the notification, either by replying to the email or by calling reception to accept or decline the offer. If no response is received within 48 hours, the offer will expire. Should you wish to be re-added to the waitlist after the 48 hours, please contact reception. 

Reminder: Ensure that WSPR has been whitelisted in your email settings, and that your communication preferences in your WSPR customer account include emails.

Garry Oak Meadows at WSPR: Nature's Comeback Story

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At West Shore Parks and Recreation (WSPR), we're proud to be home to one of Canada's most unique and endangered habitats: the Garry Oak Ecosystem. To help protect and restore these vital ecosystems, we've closed off a small area below the library to allow for natural regeneration by creating a safe haven for native plants and animals to reestablish without disturbances.

Our restoration efforts include removing invasive species and reintroducing native flora. The Western Bluebird, once common in Garry Oak meadows, has declined due to habitat destruction and competition from invasive species. To encourage their return, WSPR staff have started a nest box program and eagerly await signs of occupation. Additionally, butterfly species like Taylor’s Checkerspot and Propertius Duskywing rely on native plants such as Camas and Oregon Grape for survival. By restoring their habitat, we hope to see these pollinators thrive once again.

Indigenous communities have historically cultivated Garry Oak meadows, using practices like controlled burns to maintain their health. Today, they continue to play a crucial role in the restoration and protection of these landscapes. As you enjoy the beauty of these meadows, please help us care for them by respecting the closed areas and supporting our conservation efforts. Together, we can ensure that this natural treasure remains protected and cherished for generations to come.

Read the full story by Bryan Wood, parks supervisor.

Seniors Association Partnership Renewal

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West Shore Parks & Recreation and the Juan de Fuca Seniors Association have renewed their partnership agreement for another five-year term, from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2029. The negotiation process was collaborative and concluded smoothly, with both organizations expressing satisfaction with the outcome.

Currently, the 55+ Centre serves 1,080 members, offering a vital space for recreation, social engagement, and community connections. This renewed agreement underscores a shared commitment to supporting seniors by continuing to provide dedicated facilities and programs. Together, WSPR and the JDF Seniors Association will work to enhance the quality of life for seniors in our region, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

New Roof and Skylights

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Have you seen the light? Now that the sun is starting to show itself longer in the day, you may have noticed the pool area feeling a bit brighter... that is due to the new skylights that were installed during the JDF roof replacement. The construction is complete and the new roof has a 20 year life span, ensuring the pool, weightroom and fitness studio remain leak free for the foreseeable future.

 Thank you to the incredible maintenance team who makes sure these crucial jobs are completed. Stay tuned for more updates, including the new human resources office space that is currently under construction near the reception entrance.