TEAM USA CLINCHES GOLD 

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It was a hard fought battle! But the ladies of the USA softball team won gold Wednesday night in a 3-2 victory over Japan. The game was played as part of The World Games 2022. The victory -- a redemption of sorts. The two teams faced off during the championship game at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Japan won that match, giving the US motivation to play again. 

Over 10-thousand fans packed the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium to watch the international rivalry play out. The championship game was the climax to five days of competition that featured Australia, Canada, China, Italy, Mexico and Chinese Taipei, which took home the bronze.

Team USA featured two players with ties to Alabama. Pitcher Montana Founts played at the University of Alabama. Outfielder Haylie McCleney also played at UA and was named the 2022 World Games Softball Tournament MVP.  She grew up in Morris, AL which is about 40 minutes north of Hoover.

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HOOVER RECEATION CENTER CELEBRATES 30 YEARS 

The Hoover Recreation Center will celebrate its 30th birthday by offering special treats and treatments to members. The festivities will run July 18th - 29th. 

The events start with a blood drive hosted by Life South that will be held Monday, July 18th from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Center. Winonah School of Cosmetology, Benchmark Physical Therapy and Therapy South will offer brief, free services on several days while The Whole Scoop, What's Your Flav and Top Pop Sweet and Savory will serve up treats. On July 23rd, there will be a dance party from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. Members may also invite guests to join them for classes on designated days (see calendar below).

"As the Hoover Recreation Center, we are thankful for all of our members over the years and we want to celebrate them in a special way over the next few weeks," says Erin Colbaugh, Director of Parks and Recreation 

"By offering special treats and opportunities each day, we can show members how important they are to us."
 
The Rec Center offers a variety of services to its members ranging from aquatics, fitness, therapeutics and more. Its mission is to unite, serve and enrich the community through the programs and services it offers. Looking ahead to the next 30 years, Colbaugh says the goal is simple. 

"We want to continue the services our members have enjoyed over the years while creating new opportunities that will benefit the wellness of our community."

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