Parents, coaches urge La Canada Unified to back Parks & Rec denial of AYSO permits, citing safety and field damage

Dozens of parents, student athletes and coaches pressed the La Canada Unified School District governing board on March 25 to back a recent unanimous Parks and Recreation Commission decision that denied AYSO Region 13 fall permit access to La Canada High School's varsity baseball and softball outfields.

Speakers described recurring wear patterns, reported injuries and urged the district to tell city leaders the fields should remain reserved for baseball and softball. "Allowing permits for AYSO and other soccer organizations to trample on and tear up the high school baseball and softball grass fields disregards the health and safety of our student athletes," said Miss Spell, who addressed the board during public comment.

Supporters said the damage is visible and recurring each fall. "Every year they trample the grass into mud," said Dean Rocco, vice president of La Canada softball organizations. "Our kids play softball and baseball in outfields with uneven surfaces and bald spots. Kids are twisting their ankles. Kids are blowing out their knees. Kids are getting…