Fayetteville coaches demand access to local baseball fields for youth teams

The Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Advisory Board meeting held on April 8, 2025, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, addressed several key issues regarding community access to recreational facilities, particularly baseball fields.

The meeting began with a discussion on the accessibility of baseball fields for youth teams not affiliated with the Fayetteville Youth Baseball (FYB) program. Amanda Goodman, a local coach, highlighted the challenges faced by her team, which consists entirely of Fayetteville residents. She expressed frustration over the lack of available practice fields, noting that they have been removed from various locations, including Mount Kessler Field, where they were approached by law enforcement while practicing.

Goodman emphasized the need for more resources and accessible fields for youth teams, pointing out that the removal of CARR fields has further limited their options. She reflected on past experiences where children could practice in empty lots, contrasting it with the current climate where businesses are hesitant to allow such activities due to liability concerns.

The board acknowledged the importance of providing adequate facilities for youth sports and the need for community input on this issue. The discussion underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local teams in securing practice spaces and the broader implications for youth engagement in sports.

As the meeting progressed, the board committed to exploring potential solutions to enhance access to recreational fields for all youth teams in Fayetteville. The dialogue highlighted the necessity for community collaboration to ensure that local children have the opportunity to participate in sports and physical activities.