Youth Sports Groups Fight Rising Field and Gym Fees
A recent proposal by the local school board to increase rental costs for community sports teams has sparked strong opposition from several youth league leaders. The plan, aimed at covering maintenance and utility expenses for shared facilities, would raise fees for football, cheerleading, lacrosse, and basketball clubs that use the district’s fields and gymnasium.
League Concerns
- Accessibility: League representatives warned that even modest hikes could push some children out of play.
- Affordability: A coach from the girls’ lacrosse club said higher registration fees might make participation impossible for many families. The president of the youth football and cheer program echoed this concern, noting that affordability is already a challenge for many participants.
Board Response
- The board agreed to postpone the initial fee increase until the next school year.
- 2027‑28 & 2028‑29: 5% rise
- 2029‑30: 3% increase
The superintendent confirmed that current pricing has stayed unchanged since around 2018, and that the adjustments are intended to help offset wear-and-tear costs.
Specific Fee Changes
| Facility | Current Rate | 2027‑28 | 2028‑29 | 2029‑30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Knights Stadium (closed for renovations until 2027) | $28/hr | – | – | – |
| Gymnasium (July 2027 onward) | $7/hr | $13/hr | $19/hr | $25/hr |
| Elementary Fields | $7/hr | $10/hr | $13/hr | – |
Community Perspective
- Some league leaders pointed out that the district already charges more than neighboring districts for facility use.
- They argued that keeping sports venues affordable is an investment in the community’s youth, rather than a financial burden.
Call to Action
Supporters of the clubs emphasize that sports should be viewed as an asset to young people, offering physical health and teamwork skills. They hope the board will reconsider the proposed fees or find alternative funding to keep participation open for all.
