The Lawrence City Parks Board held a special meeting on May 20, 2025, focusing on enhancing youth sports opportunities in the community. A significant discussion centered around a partnership with I 9 Sports, which aims to introduce flag football and potentially expand into other youth sports.

Anna Finley, a representative from I 9 Sports, shared insights about the organization, emphasizing its commitment to providing a competitive yet accessible sports environment. I 9 Sports is designed to bridge the gap between recreational and travel sports, offering structured programs with paid staff to ensure quality coaching.

The meeting highlighted the existing youth sports landscape in Lawrence, which currently includes agreements for youth soccer, two baseball leagues, and football. Additionally, the Lawrence Township Basketball League (LTBBL) has been a longstanding institution, serving the community for over 30 years.

Connor Purius, another I 9 Sports representative, expressed a personal connection to the area, having grown up in Lawrence. He noted the diverse economic backgrounds of families in the community, which underscores the importance of providing affordable sports options for all children.

The Parks Board's discussions reflect a proactive approach to enhancing youth engagement in sports, aiming to foster a sense of community and promote healthy activities among local youth. The next steps will involve further collaboration with I 9 Sports to finalize plans for the upcoming sports programs.