The Oglethorpe County Recreation Department expects a massive turnout for this year’s youth basketball and wrestling seasons.
Kristin Porterfield, the department’s program coordinator, said earlier this week that numbers for basketball and wrestling had surpassed 190 children — up from a total of 175 in 2022 — and were expected to increase before the registration for both sports closes on Thursday, Nov. 2.
There were 235 participants in 2021.
The rise in numbers is something that director Michael White has come to expect.
“The sports go up every season really,” he said. “In six years, I don’t remember any sport ever declining. So I think that’s just part of what we have going on.”
White also stated that despite an increase in registration, he said basketball will have more than enough room for games and practices this season.
Registration fees for basketball ages 7-14 are $85, but $70 for children 6 and under.
For wrestling, those in second through fifth grades will be required to pay a $65 registration fee and buy a USA Wrestling membership card that will cover liabilities. The card costs $42.
Evaluations for players to determine teams will be held on Nov. 2 and Monday, Nov. 6. The first games are expected to be played on Monday, Nov. 27. To register, please call 706-743-3533.