All of the Long County schools rang their bells last Friday to begin the 2011-12 year. On Saturday, the Long County Recreation Department held its first back-to-school rally to promote the recreation department and the upcoming school year, Assistant Director Randy Simmons said.

“We wanted to kick off our football and cheerleading registration and have people come out and see our new football fields,” he said. “Also, having our rally today was a way to bring everyone in the community out and a way to encourage the kids to do well in school.”

In recent months, the department added two football fields and began a walking track at its complex, and there are plans to add two more baseball fields in the near future, according to previous reports.

During the rally, kids participated in a variety of activities, including archery, air-rifle marksmanship, a home run derby, individual football skills, basketball and soccer. Kids earned points based on their performances, and those who finished the day in the top three received trophies and medals.

Free water activities and refreshments also were available.

Smiley Elementary School first-grader Jacei Smiley said her favorite part was playing on the two waterslides.

Walker Middle School teacher Dennis Pattison also enjoyed the rally, which he said was a great idea.

“I think this is an excellent community activity,” he said. “Having all of these different activities available exposes the kids to some sports that they have never seen or been a part of.”