Recreation Center welcomes new director Liz Comerford

The Freeport Recreation Center recently promoted Elizabeth “Liz” Comerford to the position of director, effective Jan. 5.

As director and the administrative head of the center, Comerford’s job is to make sure operations run smoothly at the much-loved hub for Freeport residents of all ages.

She took over when the previous director, Victoria Dinielli, retired on Jan. 4 after a 14-year stint in the position. Comerford previously served as a recreation leader for the center, working directly below Dinielli.

Comerford has worked at the rec center for 16 years full-time, first serving as a recreation attendant right out of college. While in college, she worked as a camp counselor at the center.

A lifelong Freeport resident, Comerford grew up in the village and attended its public schools. She resided for a brief period in Massachusetts, where she attended Stonehill College.

”I’ve been here my whole life,” she said of Freeport, reflecting on her childhood, which she spent swimming in the recreation center’s pool and attending Friday night skates with friends.

When asked what kind of jobs she worked before the rec center, Comerford said, “I’ve literally worked here always.”

“It’s an asset to the village,” she said of the rec center’s importance. “It can be a safe place for kids to come… it’s such a nice facility that a lot of communities don’t have.

“We’re very lucky that it’s here, and we try to maintain it as best as we can,” Comerford added.

Comerford highlighted the center’s role as a safe space for children and a venue for various programs catering to all age groups.

“I just hope to continue with the great work that Vicky (Dinielli) has done,” she said, acknowledging the support of her colleagues and the administration.

Dinielli said about Comerford’s promotion, “Liz Comerford is the perfect choice for the management position at the Freeport Rec Center. She brings with her years of experience and knowledge of the facility… I’m confident that she will lead the Freeport Rec Center to new and exciting levels.”

For Comerford, success isn’t just about personal accolades, but it’s also about fostering a sense of belonging and opportunity for Freeport residents.

“I really liked getting to know the parents,” she said. “I liked getting to know the kids.”

When asked about the qualities required for the director’s post, she said, “patience… you have to try to be open to new ideas.”

With a diverse range of programs, such as swim lessons, kids yoga, tumbling, basketball and more, and facilities including a gym and playground donated after Hurricane Sandy, the center offers something for everyone. Comerford’s goal is to encourage more residents to take advantage of the center’s resources and foster a stronger sense of community togetherness.

“I encourage people, if they haven’t been here in a while, they should stop by,” she said. “If they’ve never been (here), to come by now. We have a lot to offer.

“None of it would be possible without the support of the mayor, the board, the staff… we have a lot of great people here,” she added.