County Hires New Little League Program Director

Judge Executive Wil Cannon addressed the fiscal court yesterday with a recommendation to hire Mr. Greg Hudson, 56, as the county's very first Parks and Rec Little League Program Director. Cannon said his office received five quality applicants and granted interviews to three of the five. Hudson, who was present at the meeting, addressed the court and spoke as to why he wanted the job. 

He retired from the Marine Corp. in 2003 and not only has lived in Edmonson County since that time, but has also served as a volunteer for the Baseball/Softball Program as either a coach, umpire, or board member, sometimes serving as more than one. He is currently finishing his Recreation Administration degree at Western Kentucky University. 

The court agreed to hire Hudson for the position and his duties began immediately. 

Many residents with children in little league have asked questions as to how the new position will benefit the program. Many are hesitant to the change, but an overwhelming majority has been in favor of the added position. 

We asked Director Hudson why he wanted the job, one that would certainly be a full-time position with part time pay. "When I moved to Edmonson County 12 years ago after retiring from the Marine Corp., I immediately got involved with the program," he said. "My desire for this job was based on the fact that I saw a need and I have experience. I've been involved in these types of programs for 90% of my life." 

Hudson said that as his new role will revolve around the Little League Baseball, Softball, and Basketball programs, his main goal is to see that those programs are enjoyable for the youth. "That comes first and foremost," he said. "Then I want to make sure those programs are enjoyable for the parents and coaches as well, but that's secondary to our county's youth." He said not only was the goal for kids to enjoy the programs, but to properly learn the sport(s) as well. 

As with all aspects of change, especially in a small town, things can be difficult as those changes begin taking place. "With a little bit of time we can make all our programs better by providing more opportunities for more people to participate in recreation within the county," he said. 

Hudson also said that he wanted to add a summer concert series to the program with artists and bands from the area in addition to the annual fireworks festival. In conjunction with the concert series, he wants to add disc golf tournaments, 3-on-3 basketball tournaments, and do them in different age brackets. He wants to add volleyball and corn hole tournaments as well. The goal of these additions is not only to benefit the county's youth, but adults as well. 

Hudson will also be in charge of the concessions this year, something that has been contracted out to third parties in the past. Now, the proceeds from concessions will be invested back into Parks and Rec. 

Baseball and Softball teams began practices this past Saturday as they prepare for the season kickoff at the all-day Jamboree on Saturday, April 11th. Parks and Rec Director A.B. Webb will now focus on field maintenance and the overall operation of the park facilities as Director Hudson will focus specifically on little league. 

Edmonson Voice Staff

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