Matt Hartnett named Aquatics/Youth Programs Manager
The Des Plaines Park District welcomes Matt Hartnett, CPRP, as the new Aquatics and Youth Programs Manager, effective January 6. Hartnett will be responsible for managing Iroquois and Chippewa neighborhood pools and the Mystic Waters Family Aquatic Center during the summer, as well as Youth Programs including year-round Learn-to-Swim lessons, Fantastic Fridays, Middle School Drop-Ins, School Day-Off Programs, and youth trips.
Hartnett comes from the Round Lake Area Park District having been their Aquatic Center Supervisor since March 2007. He has extensive experience recruiting, training, and mentoring lifeguards, pool and beachfront staff, providing in-service training in accordance with both Jeff Ellis and Associates and PDRMA guidelines, and enforcing pool rules and regulations for staff and residents. He has coordinated the Learn-to-Swim program in Round Lake and brings hands-on experience from having been a lifeguard and Learn-to-Swim instructor. “I am looking forward to the challenges of new facilities and mentoring a larger summer staff,” said Hartnett. “My goal is to help them develop a strong work ethic and a conscientious commitment to safety 24/7. I want our pool staff to continue the Des Plaines tradition of taking pride in their work and training, so we continue receive high scores on our Aquatic Safety audits.”
Hartnett has many new ideas for both the Aquatic and Youth Programs. “I would like to see us incorporate more fitness into our Aquatic classes. One of the hottest trends today is Aqua Zumba, which I would like to bring to Des Plaines, and I would like to investigate the possibility of using the Lazy River at Mystic Waters for resistance training.”
“Matt is a great addition to the Recreation staff,” said Jennifer Boys, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation. “His aquatic and programming experience in Round Lake, including handling staff and facilities, will make this a seamless transition.” For more information about Des Plaines Park District aquatic programs, visit www.DPParks.org or call 847-391-5700.