Newberry Welcomes Rod Clark as Parks/Recreation Director

NEWBERRY – The City of Newberry has announced the appointment of Rod Clark as its new Parks and Recreation Director, effective immediately. Clark, who brings a wealth of experience in athletics and recreation, will oversee the city's municipal recreation program, aiming to enhance its quality and safety.

Clark previously served as the Associate Director of Athletics at Santa Fe College and as the Recreational Supervisor in Athletics for the City of Gainesville. His extensive background includes managing youth and adult sports programs, overseeing budgets and staff, and handling grant-funded initiatives.

With an M.B.A. in Sports Business and an M.S. in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology (in progress), Clark is well-equipped to lead Newberry's Parks and Recreation Department. His expertise in athletic performance training, injury prevention, and wellness practices aligns with the city's goals of maintaining a top-rated and secure recreational program.

In addition to his management roles, Clark has hands-on experience in sports information, game day operations, and coaching at the youth and high school levels. A former Division I athlete, he holds the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association, as well as certifications in Functional Movement Screen Level 1 and Corrective Exercise Specialist from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. He is also CPR and AED certified with the American Heart Association.

Clark’s notable achievements include awards such as the Teen Midnight Basketball Program Award, Emerging Leader Program recognition, and an Award for Excellence in Program Delivery from his tenure at the City of Gainesville. He was also honored as Personal Trainer of the Year at a health and fitness center.

“I feel extremely blessed and honored to be able to help provide this service to the Newberry community,” said Clark. His appointment is expected to bring a renewed focus on youth programs and overall community engagement through sports and recreation.

City officials are confident that Clark's extensive experience and passion for athletics will greatly benefit Newberry’s recreational programs and contribute to the community's well-being.

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