RADFORD – The City of Radford announced that Charlie Goens will serve as its Director of Parks and Recreation beginning Mar. 17, 2025.
Goens will take over for former Parks and Recreation Director Greg Holbrook, who has retired.
According to the City of Radford, Goens comes to Radford with years of experience and currently serves as the Parks and Recreation Operations and Facility Division Manager for the City of Tucker, Georgia. Prior to joining the City of Tucker, Goens served from 2017 to 2023 as the Athletic Supervisor/Parks Maintenance Supervisor for Roanoke County
Parks, Recreation and Tourism.
Goens is a native of Salem and worked for a period of time with the City of Salem Parks and Recreation department. He has also served as a college baseball coach with several universities including the University of Richmond and has worked as Facility Operations Manager/Heads Groundskeeper throughout minor and major league baseball
including for the Staten Island Yankees, a Class A affiliate of the New York Yankees.
“I am both honored and excited to accept the position of Director of Parks and Recreation for
the City of Radford,” said Goens. “After my interview and meeting [Radford Interim City Manager Craig] Meadows and the panel, I felt a deep connection with the vision and mission of this community.”
“My passion for recreation, athletics, and creating vibrant, accessible spaces aligns perfectly with Radford’s dedication to enhancing quality of life through dynamic programs, athletics and facilities,” he continued. “I look forward to bringing my energy and commitment as a servant to this community, to create spaces that inspire healthy, active lifestyles while fostering a sense of belonging and connection for all who call this special city home.”
Goens has a bachelor’s degree in Recreation-Sports Management from Newberry College and received his Master’s degree in Recreation-Administration from Western Kentucky University. He is a Certified Parks & Recreational Professional through the National Recreation and Park Association.
Meadows said he thinks Goens will make a great addition to the Radford team.
“The city received a number of excellent applications for this position,” said Meadows. “After interviews and discussion, Charlie’s passion for recreation and his strong experience in both athletics and facilities stood out to us, making him the best choice to be the city’s next Director of Parks and Recreation. We are very excited to have Charlie join the Radford
team next month.
Radford is excited to welcome Mr. Goens to the city and thankful for his willingness to serve in
this important role.”
Staff report