Thanks to visits there as a youth, Anthony Spadaccini has long revered Barry Playground, 1800 Johnston St. Going on five years as a professional presence at the site, the 46-year-old has ingratiated himself to the current crops of attendees in the same fashion as he familiarized himself with space users decades ago – with respect and regard for their recreational pursuits. That commitment catapulted him to the top of the rung as South Philly’s chief recreation center leader.
“I think I’m really in tune with what people want out of their time here,” the resident of the 2400 block of South Rosewood Street said from the Marconi-based haven. “Because of my past connection, I just try to make them feel comfortable when they’re swimming, playing baseball, football, basketball, tennis, or volleyball, or just sitting to enjoy a nice day.”
Dubbing any form of exercise exciting for him, the former personal trainer commenced his Parks & Recreation Department involvement in 2007, serving at Guerin Recreation Center. The Leader 2 figure has meshed desires for mental and physical maturation through his professional life and loves helping playground attendees to approach the amenities as perpetual providers of fun.
“I’m a father, too, and my boys jumped right in with sports here, too,” Spadaccini said. “Aside from my commitment to Barry as someone who’s very familiar with the place, I want to help other families to add some very positive moments to their memories.”
With a reputation as a basketball overseer, the dedicated individual has proven a slam dunk to hoopsters looking for spirited contests, yet, regardless, of one’s preferred sport, Spadaccini, confiding that the erection of a new building to complement the existing administrative and indoor activities spot should reach completion by early June, reveres his placement and exercised his right to thank everyone.
“There are some really good leaders down here,” he said, “so any honor is a huge source of pride.”
Anthony Verratti, of the Delaware Valley Youth Athletic Association, slid safely into second, while Shot Tower’s Mike Townsend lowered the boom in third. — J.M.
