Provides Generations of Family Fun
By SUE SIENS
When summertime is around the corner, it brings to mind happy kids, swimming pools and fun. Wilson County families can get all of that and more at Coles Ferry Recreation Center, located at 1860 Coles Ferry Pike in Lebanon.
In addition to a kiddie pool and large swimming pool with diving boards and a slide, the Center also has tennis courts, sand volleyball, a picnic pavilion, barbecue grills, cornhole bag toss games, swings and ping-pong tables. It also has an indoor clubhouse that can be rented for parties and meetings.
Best of all, it consists of approximately 13 acres for families to spread out and enjoy the sun and where the children can safely play. Cole Ferry Recreation Center is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
It’s a unique concept, a private cooperative of owner/members, which allows every member family to be partowner of the Center. This method permits the members to assist in maintaining and “sprucing up” the Center, an effort currently underway in preparation for the summer season.
“We have work days where members get together and brighten things up,” said member Kelly Deffendall. “We’re like a big family, working together as owners to make sure the Center is safe for the kids, and we keep it well-maintained.”
Originally opened in 1963, now third and even fourth generation families enjoy their summers at the Center. Kelly met his wife Kristy at the Center, where she was playing volleyball with friends. Years later, the Deffendalls’ and their children are anxiously waiting another summer of fun.
“It’s a family place,” explained Kelly. “Parents and grandparents come out to socialize and relax, and it’s easy to watch the children while they swim and play. Most of the lifeguards are teens and young adults who have grown up coming here,” he added.
Recently, the Center also formed a cooperative agreement with Lebanon Golf & Country Club, which offers discounts for member services of each facility.
Memberships are currently available for the upcoming season. To apply for membership, visit www.colesferryrecclub. com and complete an on-line application, or email colesferrypool@gmail.com.