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MEET THE TEAM
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COACH NICK
Coach Nick brought serious hustle and heart to our team! A student-athlete studying Kinesiology and Business Management, he balanced fun and leadership like a pro. His favorite activity? Gaga ball—where he proudly claimed the title of self-dubbed Pit Champion. We loved having his competitive spirit and positive energy all summer long!
COACH ALLIE
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Coach Allie lit up our summer with her incredible enthusiasm! From extreme sports and games to teaching hip hop dance, she brought passion and creativity to every activity. She especially loved working with our younger participants, whose excitement and eagerness to jump into the fun made every moment even more rewarding. We loved having Coach Allie on the team and are so grateful for the joy she brought to camp!
COACH ELLIOT
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Coach Elliot is a fantastic addition to our team! He’s been with us since 2023 and brings great energy, a love for movement, and a natural connection with kids. Now a college sophomore studying Sports Science, Elliot is spending his summers with us having fun, making a difference, and earning some extra money—all while gaining valuable life experience along the way. We're stoked to have you back this year coach!
COACH KATIE
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Coach Katie has been a rockstar with us since 2024! A 4th grade teacher by day and a kickball coach by night, she brings incredible heart, humor, and leadership to everything she does. She runs our enrichment clubs at the very elementary school where she teaches, making her a familiar and trusted face for so many of our kids. We’re thrilled to have her stepping into new roles within our organization this year—including joining us as a summer instructor!
COACH NATE
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Coach Nate brought awesome energy to our team during his summer with us! While pursuing his degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Marketing, he used the opportunity to save up some money, have fun, and make a real difference in the lives of our kids. When we asked Coach Nate about his favorite activity to lead, he didn’t hesitate—wiffle ball, hands down! We’re thrilled he had such a great experience with us.
LEARN MORE ABOUT A FEW CURRENT & PAST INSTRUCTORS
PARENT RESOURCE HUB
ALL ABOUT
SPORTS CLINICS
Breaking down the FUNdamentals of youth sports. Understand what an age-appropriate coaching looks like and how to make sure your participant is getting the most out of their experience.
THE STAFFING PROCESS
Great programs start with the people running them
THE REVIEWS ARE IN.
St. Louis, MO
“Working here is so great! All the campers I have worked with have had a blast and really enjoy the programs we have. This organization has taught me a lot about teaching and organizing as well which is great for my future as a teacher!"
MEET THE LEADERSHIP TEAM
Robert Thornton
Owner & Founder
Robert Thornton, is a young entrepreneur with a passion for helping people learn and create new meaningful experiences. He's been all over the country working in the recreation and leisure industry. He spent time as a Camp Counselor, Outdoor Education Instructor, Team Building & Leadership Development Specialist, Field Instructor for At-Risk Youth, National Parks Guide, Franchise Support Specialist, and Camp Director has taught him quite a bit about how to have fun.
Learn more about anything Rec Academy by reaching out now!
David Saunders
Operations Supervisor
David is our Head of Strategic Development and assists primarily with staff management, establishing new Recreation Academy locations, developing new marketing tools, and program sales across the nation. He has an incredible track record for setting new facilities up for immense success inside their first 2 years of partnering with us. We're thrilled to have him on our team.
Want to learn more about setting up a branch in your area? Reach out today to discuss the possibilities with him!
Brett
Ziegler
St. Louis, MO - Area Manager
Background coming soon!
Position Open
Chicago, IL - Area Manager
Background coming soon!
Jessica
Thornton
Risk Assessment Consultant
Jessica plays a hugely important support role inside of our organization. Providing advice on legal matters, assisting with logistics, and ensuring that everyone adheres to our quality control guidelines for all programs. With her years of paralegal, business, and life experience she's a very welcome addition to The Rec Academy Team!
Want to learn more about Jessica's role in our organization or how to capitalize on having our activities at your facility? Reach out now!