According to Jack Beery, Carmel Dads Club president, registration for the upcoming spring sports season will end on Feb. 27. The spring season, Beery said, offers football, soccer, volleyball, baseball, softball, golf, rugby and lacrosse. Students who are interested in joining can either register on the Dads Club website or fill out a form at the office, which is located at 5459 E. Main St.
The Dads Club, Beery said, is looking for volunteers for the spring season. Parents of Dads Club athletes are required to participate as a volunteer in one position for each season. Available positions include head coach, concession worker, sports commissioner and team sponsor. However, the Dads Club, according to Beery, has just decided to allow parents the choice to opt out of volunteering and, instead, pay a $25 volunteer fee. Beery said, however, that he encourages parents to volunteer instead of paying the fee.
“We really want people to volunteer because we’re a volunteer-based organization,” Beery said. “The volunteers run this club, and having parents volunteer also allows the Dads Club to offer more of a family experience. That’s how our organization has been built and how it’s been running for years. We do, however, understand the constraints of work in this day and time or the fact that parents may have other kids who do other activities. Sometimes it’s easier to pay the volunteer fee. It just works out better for some families, but we always want parents to step up and do their volunteer work.”
Gabby Paolucci, Carmel Dads Club athlete and sophomore, said that the Dads Club is a great opportunity for students to stay active and for parents to get involved in their children’s’ lives.
“The Dads Club is a good way for students to stay in shape and make new friends,” Paolucci said. “It’s also important for parents to come and support their kids at the games.”
Beery said he also encourages both students and parents to get involved with the Dads Club.
“I encourage kids to just get involved, to be a part of something, to get out there and play with their teammates and friends, have fun,” Beery said. “You’re only a kid once, so have a good time when you’re doing it. I also encourage families to come out and support their kids when they’re playing because I think this is a family experience.”