The simplicity of the game of soccer is one of the reasons it is the world’s most popular sport — all you truly need to play is a ball. Yet in Concord-Carlisle we still ask, on average, $150 per child to register for the town teams.
In a Lending Tree survey in 2022 it was found that 59 percent of parents whose children play fall sports say the cost is a financial strain for their family. Is it possible for the town to revise its costs to register for soccer? With volunteer coaches and board members, do the costs for equipment and field maintenance require that high of a price?
A few other financial questions that I have are the following: Would it be possible to offer complimentary registration for the children of parent volunteer coaches? Would it be possible to reimburse coaches for gas given their transportation needs to get to and from practice between Carlisle and Concord? Would it be possible to somehow upcycle the uniform shirts? Shirts could be distributed at the start of the season and then returned to be reused for the age group the following year. Currently, the cost of a uniform bundle is $71.
The town’s middle school debacle keeps it fresh in my mind that children do need adult allies and advocates to enforce access to health, education, and even fun. As a parent of two experiencing these annual costs, undoubtedly changes to the rates would be greatly appreciated by more than just myself.
If you agree with my suggestions, I would appreciate it if you would show your support either in this paper or to the CCYS leadership for their consideration.
Lexie Thompson
Central Street