Local Teen Launches First-Ever Sports Equipment Lending Library

 

A visionary initiative is now available to local athletes and community groups: the newly opened Sports Equipment Library at the Republic Community Center. Founded by Republic High School soon-to-be senior Hayden Hradek, this program offers a wide range of sports gear—helmets, balls, pads, bats and more—for free six-month borrowing periods. 

Coaches of youth teams in the Republic Parks league are able to check the equipment out for players who do not have the necessary equipment.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony in late July commemorated the library’s launch, built inside a converted shipping container behind the community center. Community coaches and residents can borrow equipment by visiting during operating hours and completing a short online form.

Driven by Personal Experience

Hayden, a standout nose guard on the state runner-up football team, drew on his own childhood challenges to create the program. Raised by a single working mother, he and his family once had to choose between his involvement in football and baseball. “Mom told me that something had to give and that I had to choose one sport … our goal is to make sure the one thing children have to give up because of cost is not sports,” Hayden said, highlighting the role youth athletics play in leadership, teamwork, and community building.

Partnerships and Support

This project began as Hayden’s capstone through the University of Missouri Extension’s Neighborhood Leadership Academy (NLA). Through perseverance and passion, he secured a $3,000 equipment donation from Amazon and additional grant funding from the Greene County MU Extension Council.

David Burton, Hayden’s instructor and MU Extension Community Development Specialist, noted that Hayden is the first high school participant in NLA history. The program aims to cultivate community leadership through hands-on projects—and Hayden’s initiative stood out as a highlight.

Next Steps & Vision for Expansion

The Sports Equipment Library continues to welcome both brand-new and gently used donations. Hayden invites community members to drop off items that can support youth sports, saying: “We want to make this a pillar of our community."

Future plans may include expanding to other park locations, including outfitting a youth soccer complex at a new regional park.

About the Republic Sports Equipment Library

  • Location: Behind Republic Community Center, Republic, MO
  • Hours: During Community Center operating hours
  • Borrowing Terms: Up to 6 months per item
  • Donations: Accepted anytime
  • Founded by: Hayden Hradek, Republic High School

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit the Republic Community Center or register online for borrowing. For inquiries about donations, partnerships, or future events, email David Burton at burtond@missouri.edu.

This initiative was made possible through support from Amazon, University of Missouri Extension, and Republic Parks & Recreation. Hayden Hradek is a student at Republic High School and a participant in the University of Missouri Extension’s Neighborhood Leadership Academy.

DONATE TO SUPPORT LIBRARY

The Rotary Club of Republic has adopted the sports library and agreed to do an annual fundraiser to purchase additional equipment annually. In 2025, the club held a pancake breakfast, making $2025, and purchased 141 pieces of new athletic equipment for the sports library. 

You can support the project by mailing donation checks to RepMo Rotary Club, PO Box 87, Republic, MO 65738.


Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via email at dburton541@yahoo.com or burtond@missouri.edu. You can also visit his website at https://engagedneighbor.com.


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