Recreation Ministry
Idlewild Recreation is the largest integrated church-community recreation program in the city, nurturing participants from both the church and the community at large. The programs demonstrate the love of Christ through organized recreation by providing positive role models, capable leadership in a Christian environment, safe facilities, and an inclusive spirit. The church’s gym and recreation programs are open to all in the community.
Recreation Calendar
Weather - Check field play ability or gym availability. You can also call 901-725-4165 ext. 17.
Sports Teams and Camps
Idlewild teams are a part of the Memphis Christian Recreation Association (MCRA) or East Shelby Church Recreation Association (ESCRA).
Basketball Teams for Boys and Girls
Basketball is offered for boys and girls age five and older. Registration is in September.
The Mini-Jammer league for kindergarteners is a beginner league, hosted at Idlewild, with a focus on teamwork, fundamentals of the game, and having fun while playing. Mini-Jammers play and practice on Saturday mornings in January and February. For first grade and older, teams practice one day a week and play on Saturdays at designated locations.
Adult leagues are also available for both men and women.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER ONLINE.
CLICK HERE for a registration form to print and mail, or bring by the recreation office.
Baseball and Softball
Baseball and softball teams for boys and girls ages 4-18 play in May and June, with practices starting in April. Teams are divided by grade level. There are also teams for adults: Coed teams play Tuesday nights, and our men’s team plays Wednesday nights. Adult teams are in the Bartlett Softball League. Registration begins in February, and practices start in April.
Fall and Spring Soccer for Children of All Ages
Idlewild has soccer teams for ages 4-18. Soccer is a growing sport with many youths playing in the Mid-South. Idlewild focuses on good sportsmanship and teamwork, while experiencing the love of Christ through play. Soccer is offered both in the spring and in the fall. Click here for soccer registration.
Idlewild Soccer Camp with Coach Andy Marcinko
Soccer Camp with the Rhodes College coaching staff headed by Andy Marcinko is for ages 7-14. This is the best soccer camp value in the city! Coach Marcinko works with the Olympic Development Program and young soccer players have everything to gain from his experience. Don’t forget your swimsuit! Call 725-4165 for more details. This year's soccer camp will be July 26-30, 2010. Cost is $100.
Outdoor Challenge, Adventures and Trips
Junior/Senior High Outdoor Challenge - July 23-29, 2010
Youth craving adventure will enjoy exploring new caves, splashing down new rivers, climbing to new heights, and whitewater rafting. Cost is $560 includes food, lodging, activities. Space is limited. Call recreation at 725-4165 to sign up or for more info.
NaCoMe All-Church Camp
Spring Camp - April 23-25, 2010
Fall Camp - October 8-10, 2010
Young and old, singles and families—anyone who enjoys the great outdoors, fun and fellowship is invited to join in these weekend camping retreats.
Register now for fall NaCoMe! NaCoMe Family Camp is October 8-10. Enjoy play-filled weekend for the child in all of us—shaped by wildly creative Dr. Seuss stories! Come see what the Grinch, Truffala Trees, and Horton can teach us all about being disciples. Register at church Sunday mornings, Sept. 12, 19, 26. If you have questions please call Katherine Baldwin or call Recreation at 725-4165. Seriously, you do not want to miss the fun!
CLICK HERE to see the fall NaCoMe brochure for details.
St. Louis Baseball Trip - June 5-6, 2010
Idlewild baseball fans board the bus for a trip to see the St. Louis Cardinals tak on the Milwaukee Brews in Busch Stadium. Cost is $90 for two games and lodging. Register by May 15. Call 725-4165 for more details.
Adult Outdoor Challenge
Have you ever wanted to do some of the things that our youth are doing on those cool adventure trips. Whether you are in college or have kids in college, here’s your chance. You will have the opportunity to go hiking, whitewater rafting on the Chattooga River, kayaking, caving, rappelling, rock climbing, mountain biking, and more as we travel to East Tennessee to build relationships and enjoy the great outdoors. Dates/costs TBA.
Sole to Soul 5K Race - September 25, 2010
The annual Sole to Soul 5K, which had 300 runners last year, begins at 8:00 a.m. on a Saturday morning. REGISTER ONLINE.
Soul Fest Weekend - September 24-26
Soul Fest events go on all weekend! Click here for more details.
Friday night, September 24 - Trivia Night
Saturday morning, September 25 - Sole to Soul 5K
Saturday night, September 25 - Low Country Boil
Sunday, September 26 - Church Potluck Lunch
Arts and Crafts
The Pottery Studio
Beginners, intermediates, experts are all welcome to the pottery studio, located downstairs in the Jones Building. There are two electric wheels, slab roller, and a new kiln to enjoy. Studio hours: Thursday night 6:00-8:30. NO COST for classes, but donations are greatly appreciated and are used to supply glazes, tools, and clay. Please contact Ashley LaRue, 725-4165, for more details.
Dance Groups
Two dance groups meet at Idlewild Church each week, and you are invited to join in the fun (plus great exercise). All dance groups are free, and open to singles and couples, young and young at heart.
Ballroom Dance
Each Thursday, 7:30-8:30 p.m. in Room 110E (Jones Bldg.).
Contra Dance
Meets 2nd, 4th and 5th Fridays of each month, 7:30-9:30 p.m. in the T.K. Young Room.
Fun Seasonal Church Events
Fat Tuesday Pancake Supper - February 16, 2010
It's the annual Fat Tuesday Pancake Supper and Talent Show! Come and enjoy good food and tons of fun. Call the recreation office for more details at 725-4165.
Easter Egg Hunt - March 27, 2010
Fun for children under 12 is from 10:30 until noon. Please plan to bring a dozen plastic eggs with individually wrapped candy to the church the week before. There are arts and crafts, games and food.
Halloween Carnival - October 27, 2010
Put on your favorite costume and bring your family and friends to the great annual Idlewild Halloween Carnival. Moon slide, moon bounce, face painting, candy, games — the works! Carnival-style food served before the carnival. Children $5, adults free (because grown-ups need to have fun too).
Pinecrest Conference and Retreat Center