Hutchinson Recreation Commission has hired Tony Finlay as its new director, effective May 1. Finlay comes to Hutchinson after serving as the director of parks and recreation for the City of Grandview, MO. Finlay will replace long-time director Tom Cook, who retires April 30 after serving as Hutch Rec’s director for 23 years.

“I couldn’t be more excited about joining the Hutchinson Recreation Commission,” Finlay said. “This is a great opportunity to continue my career with a great organization and be close to family.”

Finlay’s parents are independent farmers in Hamilton County, where was raised, and his brothers and sister live in western Kansas. He has two sons – Deven, 11 years old, and Brant, 13 years old.

Finlay graduated from Fort Hays State University in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in physical education and an emphasis in parks and recreation management. He worked as the director of parks and recreation for the City of Grandview, MO, since 2007. While there, Finlay oversaw operations of a 60,000 square-foot Community Center, Outdoor Aquatic Center, Splash Park, 260 acres of parks, historic buildings, and all city facilities.

Previous work experience includes serving as the director and assistant director of parks and recreation for the City of Olivette, MO, as well as the director of parks and recreation for the City of Odessa, MO.

“My passion is improving the quality of life for residents who I have served,” Finlay says. “I believe this can be done throught he promoting of a healthy lifestyle, providing and protecting open space, and offering recreational and learning opportunities.”

Finlay’s first day at Hutch Rec is May 1.