Bass Masters Return to The Village Network
WOOSTER, Ohio - July 25, 2008 - Members of the TriCounty Bass Masters shared their love of the sport this past weekend with the youth at The Village Network (TVN) - Boys' Village Campus. This is the 19th year the group has volunteered their time to teach the young residents fishing skills. The afternoon event included three educational clinics, a great lunch and plenty of good old fishing.
"This is a great event for everyone and it fits perfectly with our recreational therapy program," said Craig Runkle, recreation therapy supervisor at TVN. "Fishing is a wonderful way to build relationships, get some bonding time and share common interests."
Tri-County Bass Masters have been an integral part of the fishing program since its inception according to Runkle. The group stocked the pond many years ago and continues to provide a free rod and reel plus assorted fishing equipment to each participant. During the clinics, the youth learn abo
ut the types of rods and reels, tying knots and types of fish.
Wayne County wildlife officer Eric Vicker joined the group to demonstrate how to properly clean and cook fish.
"For many of our youth this is the first exposure to the sport of fishing," said Runkle. "One of our goals at The Village Network is to introduce and teach new skills, new interests and new pastimes."
The Village Network is a private, nonprofit organization specializing in the treatment and care of troubled and traumatized youth. Integrated programs include residential treatment, day treatment, treatment foster care, alternative schooling and wrap-around programming over eleven locations in Ohio. For more information visit http://www.thevillagenetwork.org/.