McChord Field Family Sports Day

  • Published
  • By Airman Leah Young
  • 62nd Airlight Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  Servicemembers and their families gathered Friday, August 13 for this year's Family Sports Day, providing a great opportunity to enjoy a day of competitive sports, delicious food and family bonding.

Active duty members, Reservists and civilians assigned to McChord Field were encouraged to bring their families and enjoy the activities. The McChord Field Fitness Center, as well as the Year of the Air Force Family and the Youth Services Flight, coordinated the day's events.

"This year, the activities were more family oriented and designed to accommodate all age groups," said Thomas Ward, 62d Airlift Wing fitness center director.

Also, as a slight change from previous years, dependants ages 15 and older were able to participate in the scheduled sports events throughout the day.

The day began at 7:30 a.m. with a 5K fun run, quickly followed by the commencement of the Golf Par 3 Scramble at Whispering Firs Golf Course on McChord Field.

"Whichever squadron wins the most sporting events will be awarded a trophy," said Mr. Ward.

Other activities throughout the day included basketball, one pitch softball, water balloon toss, build-a-boat race, dodge ball and sand volleyball.

Staff Sgt. Rosmond Pollard, 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, spent the day playing softball and cheering on his co-workers.

"Days like this provide us the opportunity to display our squadron unity and family involvement," said Sergeant Pollard. "They also boost morale, which is an important part of succeeding in our mission."

There were more than 1,500 participants in this year's Family Sports Day. A chance to bond was provided, but also a great opportunity to improve the lives of McChord Field Airmen was utilized.

"One of the pillars of AMC's Comprehensive Airman Fitness program is Physical Fitness," said Col. Kevin Kilb, 62d Airlift Wing Commander. "Recreational days such as this one ensure that our Airmen are fit to fight by improving their physical resiliency and helping to provide overall balance in their daily lives."