The Coach's Corner: CT Sportsplex in North Branford
kidHaven has it’s own Sports Section now! As the newest kidHaven contributor, Joe brings an enthusiasm and insight about ways to keep older kids active. With plans for monthly reviews of sport facilities and events in and around New Haven, Joe jumps right into the game with a post about a great after-school alternative. Please welcome Joe to the team with a good ‘ole cheer and encouraging comment!
Written by Joe Meade
Many working parents experience the same dilemma: what to do with their pre-teens and teens between the hours of 3-6 pm? For some, there’s a simple solution–leave them with their teachers and coaches after school. But what does a parent do if their child doesn’t play a school sport? How can a parent keep their child active and out of trouble since research shows that after-school is not just the high risk time period for inner city youth, but for all youth? Most parents would agree that providing a safe and constructive environment, under the eye of adult supervision, is crucial to the development of their teenager, urban and suburban alike. However, the number of “latchkey kids” has been on the rise as parents try to make ends meet in this challenging economic environment.
Connecticut Sportsplex to the rescue. Located in North Branford, the Sportsplex provides a variety of fun and active choices for kids of all ages. The Fieldhouse Family Fun Center really lives up to its name with a playscape, arcade, indoor batting cages, laser tag arena and the brand new Cyber Sport game. Cyber Sport is a combination of lacrosse, basketball and hockey that is played by 2 teams driving cars on the 40 X 60 foot court. It is an innovative blend of the 3 sports that can be played by as many as 10 people at a time.
In addition to their Fieldhouse, the Sportsplex sports a huge 75,000 square foot Dome and spacious outdoor fields. The Dome has a state of the art turf surface and is used for a variety of sports leagues and clinics including soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, flag football, baseball, softball and even ultimate frisbee! They offer a series of sport specific clinics, for boys and girls, ranging from one day to several weeks. Programs are offered both indoors and outdoors, weather permitting. Private lessons are also available to individuals and small groups.For a list of programs and pricing, visit the Connecticut Sportsplex online.
For parents residing in the Greater New Haven area, Connecticut Sportsplex is a home run for keeping kids active, especially after-school. Of course, there is always the challenge of transportation to and from the facility as well as the cost. As a coach, I always recommend the team approach. See if other parents have similar concerns. Teaming up to coordinate rides and supervision might be easier than you think once you have the attention of concerned parents. If you have enough interest, consider negotiating a discount with the Sportsplex staff. I am big on negotiating (except with my basketball players!). You may be surprised at how much money you can save just by asking for a better deal.
Good luck and remember to keep those teenage minds and bodies busy. Let them try new things and give your child the gift of a well-rounded upbringing. They will thank you for it…someday!
the essentials:
North Branford, 216 Foxon Road, #203-484-4383
Fall, Winter & Spring Hours
Monday – Closed
Tuesday – Thursday – 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday – 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday – 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday – 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Summer Hours
Monday – 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tuesday – Thursday – 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday – 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday – 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday – 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
