“Many of our students live locally or take classes over the summer,” said Eric Redinger, director of Recreation Services. “We provide a fun, inclusive environment for them to recreate. We also provide employment opportunities for our students on campus and a place for the community to utilize in fitness and fun.” 

Although hours are slightly reduced in the summer, the Rec Center is open seven days a week. There are membership opportunities for faculty and staff, along with opportunities for members of the Cape Girardeau community.

 Student Recreation Center Hours

• Monday - Friday: 5:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. 
• Saturday - Sunday: Noon – 7 p.m.  

Student Aquatic Center Hours

• Monday - Friday: 5:30 – 7 a.m. / 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. / 4 - 7 p.m.
• Saturday - Sunday: Noon – 5 p.m. 

Plus, Family Hours are extended. During the school year, Family Hours at the Recreational Center are just Friday evenings and weekends. During the summer, Family Hours are whenever the Rec is open. That means members can bring their children in for free, as long as they follow facility rules and guidelines.

“Summer can be hectic for any parent, so it’s great to have a location to take your children to have some fun,” Redinger said.  “We allow children on our courts and in our aquatic facility, and parents must stay with their children. It’s great because the kids are always safe and being watched by their parent.  Our lifeguards also do an exceptional job of keeping an eye on safety.” 

In addition to regular hours, staff is busy with a large variety of summer camps all summer.  Recreation Services also takes rental reservations for facilities and fields for parties or get-togethers.

They’re also busy getting ready for the next school year. Staff are always brainstorming new activities, clubs, classes, and ways for students to get involved.

“I suspect the change in pace and focus helps some recharge,” Redinger said. “Me, personally, after a couple weeks of our students being gone I’m ready for them to return.  I thrive on the energy they bring to the building.  Luckily, we are still busy, just in a different way.”