Youth Basketball Draws Nearly 800 as “Winter on the Farm” Gains Popularity

Mokena Community Park District Meeting | Nov. 2025

Article Summary:
The Recreation Department reported strong participation numbers, with 783 children enrolled in the youth basketball league. Officials also noted the success of the recent Halloween Hollow event and increased interest in rentals at the Yunker Farm Red Barn.

Recreation Key Points:

• Basketball Enrollment: The youth basketball league has 783 participants for the upcoming season.

• Halloween Success: Commissioners praised the staff for the successful Halloween Hollow event.

• Venue Rentals: The “Winter on the Farm” initiative at the Red Barn has seen increased rental interest and positive feedback.

• Staffing: Four staff members will oversee the basketball league, with games beginning January 10.

High participation numbers and successful community events took center stage during the Mokena Community Park District Board meeting on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.

Superintendent of Recreation Kara Jelderks reported that the youth basketball league has enrolled 783 participants. The league held its draft for older grades on November 9, and practices are set to begin the week of December 8. Games will commence the weekend of January 10.

During commissioner comments, the board praised the staff for the recent Halloween Hollow event.

“Halloween Hollow was awesome,” said Commissioner Steve Jacobson. “The addition of the hours on Thursday was a good idea, the turnout was good.”

Jacobson also commended Superintendent of Recreation Facility Operations and Rentals Beth Waller for her work on the “Winter on the Farm” rentals at the Red Barn. He noted that the venue has received positive feedback, including regarding its competitive pricing.

“Mokena residents were there and didn’t realize the barn could be rented,” Jacobson said. “Well done.”

Waller reported that The Oaks facility will be partnering with the American Red Cross for a televised blood drive in January and that new programs are continuously being added to the monthly calendar.