Central Coast Surf Soccer Club seeks field access at Paso Robles council meeting

Under the soft glow of the El Paso de Robles City Hall lights, community members gathered to voice their concerns and aspirations during the City Council meeting on April 15, 2025. Among them was John Brzea, representing the Central Coast Surf Soccer Club, who passionately addressed the pressing issue of youth sports field access.

Brzea highlighted the struggles faced by local soccer organizations, noting that many teams are forced to travel outside the area to find adequate practice spaces. "We're seeing an increasing difficulty in accessing fields due to closures, reallocation, and growing competition for space," he explained. This scarcity has led to overcrowded conditions and, in some cases, the cancellation of training sessions. The impact is felt not only in the realm of sports but also in the broader community, as soccer serves as a vital outlet for youth, promoting health, character development, and community engagement.

The Central Coast Surf Soccer Club is just one of several organizations in the area, including AYSO and Paso Robles Youth Soccer, all vying for limited field access. Brzea urged the council to place the issue on the agenda for the next meeting, emphasizing the need for equitable access that reflects the growing participation in youth sports. He proposed the formation of a task force that would include city representatives and local sports organizations to collaboratively seek long-term solutions.

In a shift from sports to civic engagement, Gloria Feimer from the Paso Robles Democratic Club also took the floor, expressing her concerns about national issues affecting local residents. She invited council members to join a protest, underscoring the importance of civic participation in safeguarding constitutional rights.

As the meeting progressed, the council members listened intently, recognizing the significance of both discussions. The call for improved youth sports facilities aligns with the city’s strategic plan for recreation services, which aims to optimize access and foster community partnerships. The evening concluded with a sense of urgency and hope, as residents and officials alike pondered the future of recreational opportunities in El Paso de Robles.