Community Sports in Olds

Guiding Philosophy

Our Purpose

The Town of Olds manages its sports fields and recreation facilities to create the greatest possible opportunity for residents to participate in sport, with a particular focus on children and youth.

Our goal is to keep facilities active, support local sport and make fair use of public resources.

1. Local Sport Comes First

Local teams and community-based programs receive priority consideration, meaning we will try to accommodate local teams as best as possible. We recognize the important role established minor sport associations play while welcoming new organizations that serve Olds residents.

2. Kids Get the Best Times to Play

Children and youth should have access to appropriate practice and game times. We prioritize earlier evening hours for younger athletes and consider age, school schedules and family needs when allocating facilities.

3. Public Facilities Are Meant to Be Used

A booking provides access to a facility, not control over it. We allocate space based on demonstrated need and actual use. Unused facilities should be made available to other groups whenever practical, while allowing for maintenance and field conditions.

4. Community Benefit Matters More Than Business Model

Non-profit and for-profit organizations can both provide valuable sport opportunities. We consider who participates, the benefit to local children, affordability and whether programs add opportunities without unnecessarily displacing existing users.

5. Fair Access Requires Shared Responsibility

All groups are expected to book the facilities they use, respect their allocated times, report changes and work cooperatively with other users. The Town will make decisions fairly, consistently and transparently.

Our Measure of Success

More local children playing, more opportunities for teams and organizations, and well-used sports facilities that serve the entire community.

When groups request the same facility time, the Town of Olds considers:

• Who benefits, and how many local children or residents will participate?
• Does the opportunity expand access or provide something not otherwise available?
• Can participants reasonably afford the program?
• Will approving the request reduce existing local opportunities?
• Could different times or facilities accommodate both groups?
• Does the proposed use support responsible facility management?

What Does This Look Like in Practise?

• Reducing expensive spring ice time to increase dry-pad availability for Lacrosse, pickleball and other indoor sports.
• Investigating opportunities to increase usage and bookings on all our sports fields.
• Entering into partnership with Olds College Broncos to increase use of Rotary Athletic Park.

For any questions or concerns, or to learn more please contact communityservices@olds.ca.

View Policy #901C