HAMPTON -- There’s somewhat of a familiar face in the Hampton Rec office: Katie Yeaton has come on board as the department’s newest staff member.

Involved in the town’s various recreation programs throughout her childhood, the 25-year-old Hampton resident has filled the vacancy left by former rec secretary, Shirley Doheny, who now serves as assistant town clerk.

Katie, a 2000 graduate of Winnacunnet High School, earned her Masters degree in Sports Management at Daniel Webster College in Nashua, graduating in 2004. Since then the college athlete (volleyball, softball, basketball) has worked at the front desk for the Newmarket Recreation Department.

Back in April, however, when she saw online that the Hampton Rec position was available she applied right away, bringing her resume and application to the office on April 13. She received a call on April 24, had an interview the following day, and was officially hired less than a week later on April 30, edging out 31 other applicants. Her first day on the job was Monday of this week.

In addition to taking part in all kinds of recreation sports programs offered by the town ("I tried everything once," she says), her previous affiliation with Hampton Rec includes working the concession stand and the beach parking lot during the summer months while still a student.

Yeaton says she has been "looking forward to coming back to Hampton and working with the people," adding "there’s a lot of great programs here. I’m hoping I can bring in some good ideas."

Her job responsibilities include plenty of interaction with members of the public when they venture to the rec department’s upstairs offices. Taking registrations, answering phones, updating recreation information appearing on the town’s Web site and Channel 22, providing publicity and working at special events will keep Yeaton busy as she settles in.

Her predecessor appears quite certain that Yeaton will have no problem filling the shoes that were left behind.

"She’s going to do great — no question in my mind," says Doheny, who wasn’t the only staffer to give Yeaton a vote of confidence early on.

Rene Boudreau, the rec department’s program coordinator, says he is "excited to have someone with knowledge of the recreation field and the [computer] software" which the department uses on a regular basis. As a result, Boudreau anticipates there is a smooth transition in store for his newest colleague.

Of course, personal ties to the hometown and a background in all things rec are a plus, as far as Recreation Director Dyana Martin is concerned.

"It’s great that she’s a Hampton resident," says Martin. "I’m happy to have someone who’s a recreational professional — and a nice kid."

The nice kid who has taken part in WHS Coach Ned Beattie’s Basketball Camp "forever — many, many summers through high school and college" — appears just as happy and optimistic about her future with Hampton Rec.

"I’m looking forward to working with Dyana and Rene," says Yeaton, "and all the people — kids, Seniors [and] anyone in between."

Be sure to stop by the rec office on Winnacunnet Road, say "hi" to Katie Yeaton, and ask her for assistance in registering for Hampton Rec’s many regular programs and upcoming summer camp activities. For more information, call (603) 926-3932.