Awarded by the Texas Recreation and Park Society
TEMPLE, TX (March 13, 2026) – The City of Temple is proud to announce that its Parks & Recreation Department has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards from the Texas Recreation and Park Society (TRAPS), honoring excellence in park stewardship, maintenance, programming, and professional development.
These four awards include the 2026 Lone Star Legacy Park designation for Temple Lions Park, First Place in the Irrigation Assembly Competition at the TRAPS Maintenance Rodeo, the Promotions and Marketing Excellence Award – Class III for the Aquatics Hiring Campaign, and the Jack O. Ashworth Scholarship awarded to Malik Green, Program Coordinator at the Wilson Recreation Center.
Temple Lions Park Named 2026 Lone Star Legacy Park
Temple Lions Park has been designated a 2026 Lone Star Legacy Park, one of the highest honors awarded to parks in Texas. The designation recognizes parks that hold exceptional historical, cultural, and community significance and have stood the test of time as beloved public spaces.
Established in 1975 and spanning approximately 108 acres, Temple Lions Park is home to the A.J. Mercer Softball Complex, multiple playgrounds, a fishing pond, disc golf course, picnic areas, and the nationally recognized Charley Stout Nature Trail. For decades, the park has served as a cornerstone of community life, hosting youth sports, family gatherings, outdoor recreation, and nature exploration.
Temple Parks Maintenance Team Wins First Place at TRAPS Maintenance Rodeo
The department’s maintenance team earned First Place in the Irrigation Assembly Competition at the TRAPS Maintenance Rodeo, a statewide event showcasing technical skill and excellence in parks maintenance operations. The competition challenges participants to construct and troubleshoot irrigation systems under timed conditions, demonstrating precision, teamwork, and industry expertise. Additionally, this is Karl Reigle and Ranger Burba’s second year in a row to receive the award as well.
Aquatics Hiring Campaign Wins Promotions & Marketing Excellence Award
The department also received the Promotions and Marketing Excellence Award – Class III for its innovative Aquatics Hiring Campaign, recognized for its creativity, effectiveness, and impact on seasonal recruitment. The campaign successfully engaged local job seekers and strengthened staffing for Temple’s aquatics facilities.
Jack O. Ashworth Scholarship Awarded to Temple Staff Member
In addition, Malik Green, Program Coordinator at the Wilson Recreation Center, was awarded the Jack O. Ashworth Scholarship, a TRAPS honor that supports emerging leaders in the parks and recreation field. The scholarship recognizes Green’s commitment to professional growth, community service, and advancing recreation opportunities in Temple.
“These awards reflect the incredible dedication, talent, and heart of our entire Parks and Recreation team. From statewide recognition for Temple Lions Park to the achievements of our maintenance staff, marketing team, and emerging leaders, each honor reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional parks, programs, and experiences for our community. We’re proud of this team and grateful to see their hard work celebrated at the state level.”
Chuck Ramm, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation
These four statewide honors highlight the City of Temple’s ongoing commitment to high-quality parks, innovative programming, and exceptional public service. To learn more about the city’s parks, trails, and recreation programs, visit templeparks.com.