By Johnna Shaw / Jambar Contributor
A new place to play is open to more than just Campbell students — The Campbell Works at 444 Struthers Coistville Rd. welcomes Youngstown State University students, families and individuals from surrounding areas and communities for recreation.
The facility in Lowellville brings multiple sports and activities all under one roof. The Campbell Works includes six duckpin bowling lanes, two golf simulators, a 30-yard indoor turf field and batting cages, which give attendees more opportunities to stay active and spend time together.
The idea was first conceived a few years ago through a grant with the Appalachian Children Coalition. Jim Goske, director of Whole Child Supports for Campbell City Schools, said the project was funded through grants and partnerships instead of taxpayer money.
“We wanted to provide some resources to the community and some new resources to our students, some new opportunities and maybe some things that hadn’t previously been available in Campbell for the community and our kids,” Goske said.
One of the main attractions is duckpin bowling, which is different from traditional bowling with smaller, lighter balls and shorter lanes. Goske said the activity is meant to be something people of different ages can enjoy.
“It really is made for anywhere from preschool-age kids all the way up to senior citizens,” Goske said.
Campbell elementary students have already used the building during school and for activities after. Ralph Urbach, Campbell teacher, said students can earn opportunities to come over and bowl, play golf or use the turf.
Students have also used the building during after-school programs where they can play while learning about subjects such as physics and sports.
Urbach said the students’ reactions have been easy to notice.
“‘Yay!’ ‘Yippee!’ screaming and yelling,” Urbach said. “It’s the normal emotions just watching students play and have fun.”
The golf simulators are used by beginners and experienced golfers alike. Guests can practice at the driving range, play miniature-golf-style courses or choose from different virtual courses, such a local green or one themed after “Jurassic Park.”
The simulators also give golfers a way to practice during the winter when outdoor courses are not an option.
The indoor turf and batting cages give local athletes another place to practice. Soccer, football, baseball and softball players can use the space for practices, lessons and clinics. The two batting cages come down from the ceiling.
Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries is also partnering with The Campbell Works. Carol Holmes-Chambers, Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries’ vice president of community and workforce development, said Goodwill has a student-run boutique in the building and hopes to bring more career and community programs to the area.
“We know we can’t do everything,” Holmes-Chambers said. “So partnering just amplifies impact.”
As the facility continues to grow, the district hopes more students, families, teams and community members will use it. For Campbell students, especially, The Campbell Works is intended to be a place where all can learn, practice and have fun.
The Campbell Works hours of operation include:
- 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday
- 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday
- 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday
- 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
For more information, those interested can call 330-799-6842 or visit the Community Literacy Workforce and Cultural Center website at clwcc.org.
