During a recent meeting, representatives from the South Kitsap Soccer Club voiced significant concerns regarding a newly approved policy by the South Kitsap School District Board that will implement fees for field usage starting September 2024. The club's spokesperson highlighted that this decision could have detrimental effects on youth sports in Port Orchard, particularly regarding the financial burden it places on nonprofit organizations.

The spokesperson emphasized that the initial years following the fee implementation would require clubs to absorb substantial costs, exacerbated by ongoing inflation. They raised questions about what services the school district would provide in exchange for these fees, specifically mentioning the need for access to fields during the summer months, portable restrooms, and trash services—expenses that could total around $10,000 for the club alone.

Additionally, the spokesperson sought clarification on how the new fees would compare to existing costs for renting indoor facilities, such as auditoriums for basketball or cheerleading, which offer amenities like lighting and protection from the elements. They expressed concerns about whether the benefits provided for outdoor field usage would be equivalent.

The discussion also touched on the potential impact of increased fees on field quality and availability. The spokesperson warned that tighter budgets could lead to overcrowding, with more teams being forced into limited spaces, resulting in higher traffic volumes and deteriorating field conditions due to increased wear from cleats.

Overall, the South Kitsap Soccer Club urged the school district to reconsider the implications of the fee structure, advocating for a more holistic approach to field maintenance and access that supports the community's youth sports programs.