Summertime equals fun time in Orland Park

Originally published June 29, 2017

Summer and sports go hand in hand. The village of Orland Park has many opportunities to play, compete, gain some skills, sit back and take in a game or just relax by the pool.

Youth summer basketball league

Does your child love the game of basketball? The Village of Orland Park is hosting a Youth Summer Basketball League. Students in 3rd and 4th grade will compete in the college league on Ohio State, Michigan State, UCLA or Kentucky. Those in 5th and 6th grade will compete in the NBA league on the Bulls, Celtics, Lakers or Knicks.

Teams will practice for two weeks beginning July 11, and play games for four weeks (ending August 16). Volunteer coaches are needed. A mandatory coaches meeting is at 6 p.m. June 30th at the Sportsplex. Coaches will contact participants to inform them of practice and game times. Fees range from $65/member to $93/non-residents and include shirts, equipment, and referee.

Aerial yoga

Looking for something a little more acrobatic? The village’s aerial yoga class is a great opportunity to use silk hammocks to stretch and build strength. Classes and workshops are geared for high school to seniors. The Sportsplex has aerial yoga and aerial yoga play workshops. Classes are forming – check out the 2017 Orland Park Summer Program Guide for dates, or visit www.orlandpark.org for more information.

Booty Barre

Considered a workout dance party that tones the body, the Booty Barre class combines ballet, Pilates and toning with the ballet barre to condition your body. The next class begins July 9 through July 21.

Kid fitness

How about getting the kids moving this summer? There are many fitness opportunities for kids of all ages this summer. Check out the Village website or the Summer Program Guide, and find a fun way to keep moving this summer.

Pandemonium

If you are thinking about competing in the Village of Orland Park Pandemonium, consider attending the Pandemonium Training Camp. This four-week course prepares you for the 5K Pandemonium Challenge, which will be held Saturday, August 12. The training class meets on Saturdays, beginning on July 1 until July 29.

Centennial Park Aquatic Center

With all of that fun in the sun, maybe you need to cool off a bit! Centennial Park Aquatic Center is now open. Located at 15600 West Avenue, this exciting water park is not just a pool, but boasts many other amenities. From “little ones” to the senior set, there is something for everyone – like the playground style structures, to the speed slides, to the lazy river.

Lake Sedgewick

Another way to cool down during the heat of the summer is just south of the Centennial Aquatic Park at 15600 West Avenue. Lake Sedgewick is a 75-acre lake, which includes a boat ramp, boardwalk, outdoor amphitheater, gazebo, council ring and nature trails. Pedal boats and kayaks are available for rental from noon until 8 p.m. on Fridays; and from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

The lake contains bluegill/sunfish, carp, largemouth bass, crappie, bullhead, northern pike, and walleye. Catch and release is encouraged. Visit the Lake Sedgewick page on the village’s website for further details.

Grand Slam Event

If your speed is more watching a game than playing, grab some specially priced tickets for the Village of Orland Park’s Grand Slam Event with the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field. Game starts at 7:10 p.m. on Tuesday, July 18, when the Sox take on the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Ticket prices are as low as $16 and orders must be received by July 7. Order forms are available at all village buildings and can be downloaded at: http://www.orland-park.il.us/documentcenter/view/27921

Summer is short – make the most of it!