x;font-style:italic;line-height: 1;color:#555;">Craig Ruben's passion for sports leads to recreation job
Kassina Ryder
Northern News Services
Monday, June 1, 2015
PAULATUK
Craig Ruben says it was his love of sports that inspired him to apply for the recreation co-ordinator trainee position in Paulatuk earlier this year.
Craig Ruben is the new recreation co-ordinator trainee in Paulatuk. - photo courtesy of Aaron Ruben |
"I'm a sports fanatic," he said.
"Being able to play sports for my job is what pulled me in."
The 26-year-old said since starting his training nearly three weeks ago, he's been learning everything there is to know about running the community's
recreation department.
He's been learning everything from how to work within the department's budget to what activities should be available for residents this summer.
So far, he said he's been enjoying learning about what the job demands. In addition to working on plans for community events, Ruben is also responsible for keeping tabs on the department's equipment.
"You have to get equipment ready to go, writing things down, which equipment is going and which is staying," he said. "It's been pretty busy."
He also helps keep minutes during meetings and is learning new computer skills, using Microsoft Excel.
Planning this summer's activities has also been occupying a lot of his time, Ruben said.
While he hopes to be able to offer baseball, outdoor soccer and football, he's also aiming to introduce something new - golf.
"Hopefully we can try and get golf going here," he said. "We haven't played golf before. We don't even have clubs."
Some of the sandy areas near the community are possible locations for a golf course.
"The sand is probably a good bet," he said.
Other initiatives include possible renovations to the youth centre, as well as a jamboree platform for community events.
But Ruben said his biggest goal is to try and secure funding to renovate the community's arena, including purchasing a zamboni.
He said he's optimistic, though he knows it might take a while to make his goals a reality.
"I wouldn't mind to see all that happen while I'm here," he said.
Now that he's starting to get the hang of things, Ruben said he's looking forward to his future with the department. He said he would tell others looking for a career in recreation should do their best to give residents a variety of activities.
"Just keep on going and try to make the community happy and proud," he said.
