The Kyle Parks and Recreation team recently showcased their expertise and leadership at two major industry conferences, bringing home awards, earning top honors, and contributing to statewide professional development.
Southwest Parks and Recreation Training Institute
During the 70th Southwest Parks and Recreation Training Institute, the department stood out with multiple achievements that reflect the department’s commitment to excellence. The annual institute brought together hundreds of parks and recreation professionals from Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Colorado, and Louisiana for education, networking, and the exchange of ideas to better serve their communities.
Kyle Parks and Recreation brought home two major awards at the conference, the Innovative Program Award for its 2025 “25 Days of Christmas” programming, a City of Kyle favorite.
The department also earned the PSA/Promotional Award for its Lake Kyle Fitness Court promotions and ribbon-cutting fitness event, highlighting effective outreach efforts that encouraged community participation and promoted healthy lifestyles.
In addition to the departmental awards, Director David Lopez was presented with the prestigious Ruby Award, recognizing his record of service and dedication to the institute and the parks and recreation profession.
Lopez was also sworn in as President of Southwest Parks, beginning a three-year term. In this leadership role, he will help guide the organization’s mission to present and promote educational opportunities for students, professionals, and supporters within the field of parks and recreation.
Kyle team members also contributed to the institute’s educational programming as featured speakers. Assistant Director Aimee Garcia led a session titled “Inclusivity Matters – Scaling Therapeutic Recreation in a Growing Community,” focused on expanding accessible recreation opportunities. Horticulturist and Native Landscaping Supervisor Calvin King presented “Developing a Native Plant List for Climate-Resilient Landscapes,” sharing strategies for sustainable and environmentally responsible landscaping.
Texas Recreation and Park Society
The Parks and Recreation team continued to expand on their skills and successes at the Texas Recreation and Park Society (TRAPS) conference in Corpus Christi. TRAPS, founded in 1937, is a statewide nonprofit whose mission is to promote engaged communities, wellness lifestyles, and thriving greenspaces by helping advance parks and recreation professionals.
This year, several staff members attended for an opportunity to learn, grow, and compete. Horticulturist Calvin King and Native Landscaping Division Parks Technician Conrad Chappel participated in the Plant Identification Competition with King taking home the top prize, showcasing the City’s top plant knowledge and expertise.
Beautification Division Crew Leader Claudio Coutino competed in the Zero-turn Mower Competition after competing in the Central Texas Region Maintenance Rodeo.
These accomplishments reflect the City of Kyle Parks and Recreation Department’s ongoing commitment to innovation, professional leadership, and high quality service for residents. As Kyle continues to grow, the department remains focused on expanding programs, strengthening community connections, and delivering exceptional parks and recreation experiences for all.
