American Play Systems is a passion project | News

Maria and Matt Smith were ready to try something new when American Play Systems fell into their laps.

We knew the previous owners,” Matt said. “They wanted to retire, and Maria and I were at a point in our careers where we were ready to try something new.”

“We’re finally in a spot after a year where I feel like we can breathe for a second and focus on marketing and putting ourselves out there,” Maria said. 

In Tucson and Chandler, American Play Systems installs and sells recreational and athletic equipment across the state. They are partnered with Rainbow Play Systems and distribute backyard play areas as well. APS also provides furnishings like shaded roofs and woodchips for playgrounds.

The Smiths, who have two children, have been running the company for nearly a year, taking it on from former owners Debbie and Craig Moore.

Maria has a history in project management across travel and entertainment companies. Meanwhile, Matt worked in the construction industry. With both of their past experiences, this type of work is their specialty. Their company recently completed a playground construction project in the Saguaro Bloom community in Marana.

“We do both residential and commercial playgrounds,” Maria said. “… We do quite a bit of building between here and Phoenix. … We work with schools, parks, churches and day cares. And we provide the heavy-duty steel playgrounds and the big commercial chain structures that you see.”

Maria said their children also contribute to the business and help determine what makes for an enjoyable playground. 

“They don’t mind coming to work with us at all,” Maria said. “They’re our best critics (and) they’re also good salesmen. … We like that part of it.”

The couple said that APS is well established and trusted in the area, contributing to their success over the last year. They look forward to continuing work in the community and getting involved in more projects. 

“The business has been in Tucson for about 20 years actually,” Maria said. “I think word of mouth (helps). That is also what brings people in.”

“About 85% of our business is repeat customers,” Matt said. “Because we focus on having good lines of communication, feedback and doing the right thing. (We like) keeping our customers happy and doing the right thing.”