Roy resident calls for better access to soccer goals at Emma Russell Park

Concerns over soccer goal accessibility at Emma Russell Park took center stage during the Roy City Council meeting on March 18, 2025. Resident Alexis Jackson voiced frustrations regarding the limited public access to the park's soccer goals, which are primarily reserved for the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) during the peak season.

Jackson, who lives near the park and coaches an AYSO team, highlighted that while the organization plays a vital role in youth sports, the current arrangement restricts public use of the goals. "Saturdays are largely reserved by that organization, and several weekdays after work are also booked for games," she explained. This leaves many local residents, including a group of about 40 who play pickup games, struggling to find time to use the facilities.

The issue stems from an agreement between AYSO and the city, which allows the organization to reserve the fields at a discounted rate, potentially subsidized by taxpayer dollars. Jackson argued that this arrangement should ensure reasonable access for all residents, even during the soccer season. She suggested a need for a better balance between AYSO's use and public access.

Jackson also mentioned discussions with city officials about possibly extending the soccer season or keeping the goals available during the summer months. However, concerns about vandalism were raised as a significant barrier to these changes.

The council's response to Jackson's concerns remains to be seen, but her passionate plea underscores the ongoing debate about public access to community resources in Roy City.