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ALACHUA – The University of Florida College of Health & Human Performance has once again recognized a former local leader for his dedication to community service and innovation. On Friday, the college honored Robert “Goose” Basford, a former employee of the City of Alachua and City of High Springs recreation departments, as an Outstanding Young Alumnus.

Basford began his career in parks and recreation while earning a master’s degree in sport management at UF. During that time, he interned with the City of Gainesville and worked for the City of Alachua. He later served five years as recreation director for the City of High Springs while earning a second master’s degree in recreation, parks and tourism at UF.

While in Alachua and High Springs, Basford made significant contributions to youth programs and community recreation. He volunteered as a mentor with the Alachua County School Board’s Take Stock in Children program and served as the Task Force Executive for the 2013, 2014 and 2015 National Babe Ruth World Series events. He also enhanced programming within the High Springs Parks and Recreation Division and played a key role in transitioning it into a formal city department.

Basford led several community improvement initiatives, including a playground development project aimed at expanding and upgrading recreational spaces in High Springs.

Today, Basford serves as the assistant city manager for Jersey Village, Texas, where he oversees parks and recreation, public works, infrastructure and utilities. His leadership has supported major infrastructure upgrades, including an $8 million flood mitigation project on a city golf course. He has also directed improvements in water and wastewater systems, street rehabilitation, and municipal facilities.

His efforts earned him national recognition as a Top 30 Under 30 honoree by the National Recreation and Park Association. Known for his passion for community-driven development, Basford continues to lead projects that enhance public infrastructure and quality of life in his Texas community.

Locally, spring sports were in full swing over the weekend. Santa Fe Soccer Alliance hosted matches at the Legacy Multipurpose Fields, while Santa Fe Babe Ruth Baseball held games at the Hal Brady Recreation Complex’s World Series and Pavilion fields. The 13-15 Boys division played a doubleheader at Progress Copeland Park. In addition, Santa Fe Babe Ruth Softball hosted its second annual Jeremy Payne Invitational at the Gene Curls Softball Complex, with teams from Dixie, Keystone, Bronson, Newberry and Gilchrist County participating.

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