Morehead City Little League leaders advocate for new fields amid rapid growth

The recent Board of Commissioners meeting in Carteret County highlighted a pressing issue for local youth sports: a significant shortage of playing fields. As the Morehead City Little League prepares for its 70th anniversary, the organization is grappling with an overwhelming increase in participation, yet faces a dwindling number of available fields for practice and games.

Chuck Linder, president of the Morehead City Little League, expressed deep concern over the lack of field capacity, noting that the league has seen a surge in interest, particularly among younger divisions. With multiple teams vying for limited space, Linder emphasized the need for community support and potential funding to expand facilities. He recalled the rich history of baseball fields in the area, many of which have disappeared as the town has developed, leaving current youth with fewer opportunities to engage in sports.

Community member Amy Wiborski echoed these sentiments, sharing her family's experiences and the importance of youth sports in fostering life skills and friendships. She pointed out that families are investing heavily in youth sports, with significant spending on travel and tournaments, which could translate into valuable tax revenue for the county if more facilities were available.

Angie Bridal, representing Morehead City girls softball, also raised concerns about the limited availability of fields, stating that the league has only one field to accommodate multiple teams. She urged the county to consider the long-term benefits of investing in sports facilities, not just for the youth but for the community as a whole.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a collective call for action to address the growing demand for youth sports facilities in Carteret County. As local leaders consider future developments, the community hopes to see a commitment to creating spaces that support the health, growth, and development of its young athletes. The next steps may involve collaboration among county officials, municipalities, and user groups to identify land and resources for new parks and fields, ensuring that the legacy of youth sports continues to thrive in the region.