APEM Teen Night at the YMCA Cortland!!

On Friday April 17, 2009, the Alliance of Physical Education Majors (APEM) ran the final 'Teen Night' at the YMCA on Tomkins Street in Cortland. The objective of this program was to give students and children in the Cortland area an evening of fun and games in a safe and fun environment. With this being the first time I helped participate in the running of an event, I wasn't quite sure what to expect...

Throughout the semester, APEM ran a number of teen nights at the YMCA for the children of the Cortland area. Being the final one of the year, everyone was eager to put together a great evening of fun and excitement for everyone involved. However, there turned out to be a problem; Cortland area schools were closed for spring recess giving the club no direct way of promotion to students. With this task in front of us, members of the group advertised throughout town in an attempt to spread the word.

When the day of the event came, we hoped for the best. That evening at the YMCA, there was a rather underwhelming turnout of about 15 children to the 25 APEM members volunteering their time. However, we didn't let this bother us. There was plenty prepared for everyone to have fun. In the gym, basketball, free throw contests, and rock climbing were a huge hit for everyone throughout the night. In the lobby and classroom, a Nintendo Wii was set up for enjoyment and a Dance Dance Revolution station gave the children a chance to participate in some ExerGames. And the pool was open for anyone who wanted to swim. Perhaps the biggest success of the night was the game 'Newfie Football' which followed the basic rules of ultimate frisbee but with a rubber chicken used as the ball! The kids loved this game as it was played for nearly one hour. Needless to say, everyone involved got a great workout. When all was said and done, we wrapped it all up and closed down the place after producing a successful teen night.

As I continue my journey to becoming a Physical Education teacher, I felt it would be in my best interest to join the APEM club. It's a good way to keep in touch with fellow Physical Education majors and gain experience through the events that are put on. This was the first organized event I volunteered for with APEM and I had a great time. I learned a great deal about the club and the members in it. I hope to one day be able to move up the ranks in the club to higher end positions and organize more events like these for everyone to enjoy!