(Published May 16, 2018)

You’ll notice that the JCC has a new Director of Recreational Sports, Anita Hernandez. A graduate of Ball State in Interpersonal Communication, Anita has a passion for sports and loves a challenge. She has competed in three sprint triathlons and in her free time, plays in a volleyball league. Anita loves working with kids.

I think it’s important for kids to enjoy sports when they’re younger so they stick with it as they grow older. Sports teach kids skills not only on the court, but off the court.

Fast Facts About Anita

Hometown: Indianapolis

Previous jobs: USA Track & Field. Anita ran a cross country camp, worked with Junior Olympics and was part of the Run Jump Throw program, where she managed 350 children at daylong events. Most recently, she served as a co-athletic director at St. Luke, managing their sports leagues. Oh, and she also worked at the JCC in Membership Services.

Favorite part of the triathlon: Competing in a triathlon was always on my bucket list, however the swimming portion scared me. I was not a strong swimmer. Two of my friends who happened to be JCC lifeguards at the time took the time to help me learn the proper way to swim. Now that’s my favorite part! Thanks, Sam and Hannah!

Sports hero: Danny Granger, Danny Granger, Danny Granger. If you know me, you know Danny Granger was not just my favorite Pacers player but also my role model and I am currently still trying to be his best friend. I loved the way he played but also how he carried himself off the court.

Where to find her: The best place to find Anita is in the gym or on the fields, but she does have an office. It’s in the Mordoh Fitness Center across from Katherine Matutes.