Toms river recreation offering pickleball classes and summer chess camp

Residents looking to learn a new skill this year can sign up for beginner pickleball lessons or a week-long chess camp through Toms River Recreation programs.

TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Toms River Recreation is giving residents opportunities to sharpen their minds and stay active with upcoming pickleball classes and a summer chess camp designed for players of all experience levels.

The programs are open to a range of age groups and are being offered through the township’s recreation department.

Beginner pickleball classes scheduled through September

The recreation department is hosting beginner pickleball classes for adults ages 16 and older at the Bey Lea Park Tennis Courts on Route 571 (North Bay Avenue).

Each session costs $60 per person and is designed for newcomers looking to learn the fundamentals of one of America’s fastest-growing sports.

Classes are scheduled on the following dates:

June 16, 18, 23 and 25
Aug. 4, 6, 11 and 13
Sept. 1, 3, 8 and 10

Participants can choose between two class times: 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Registration is available through the township’s Community Pass website.

Chess Wizards camp coming to Toms River

Young chess enthusiasts can also participate in the Chess Wizards Camp, a national chess education program scheduled for June 22 through June 26.

The camp will be held at the Toms River Recreation Department Youth Services Building Back Room, located at 1505 North Bay Ave.

Organizers say the program is open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade and welcomes all skill levels, from beginners learning the game to advanced players looking to improve their strategies.

Full-day sessions run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and cost $360. Half-day sessions are available from 9 a.m. to noon or noon to 3 p.m. for $250.

According to Chess Wizards, the camp combines chess instruction with recreational activities while helping students develop critical thinking, problem-solving and strategic planning skills.

Residents interested in either program can register online through the Toms River Recreation Department’s Community Pass portal or contact the recreation department at 732-341-1000, ext. 8414, for additional information.

Key Points

• Toms River Recreation is offering beginner pickleball classes for adults ages 16 and older at Bey Lea Park.

• Classes cost $60 per person and continue through September.

• Chess Wizards Camp will run June 22-26 for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, with half-day and full-day options available.

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