In 1891, the first Alfred Corning Clark Gymnasium opened in Cooperstown, New York. The building occupied the former site of a hardware store at the corner of Main and Fair Street. An indoor track surfaced with canvas circled the upper portion of the main activity room. Bowling alleys, locker rooms and a large “general purpose” gym floor were also included. The facility proved to be an instant success. By the end of the first year membership had already exceeded 200 people. Membership fees were $3.00 to $6.00 per year for adults and surprisingly for the times, women were encouraged to be full participants. Classes included a broad range of activities from fencing, high jumping, boxing and weight lifting to running and general fitness. In 1924, a swimming and diving program was introduced at the present Country Club site on Lake Otsego.

Our Mission

It is the primary mission of The Clark Sports Center to take an active role in the health, fitness, recreational and educational life of the Village of Cooperstown and its surrounding area. Specific objectives include safe, high quality youth, adult, and family programming as well as outreach programs aimed at addressing the needs of the under served local populations.

Our Vision

It is the vision of The Clark Sports Center to provide exceptional opportunities for those we serve to experience a lifetime of fitness and fun through education and recreation.