The Lawrence City Parks Board held a special meeting on May 20, 2025, focusing on youth sports programs and their organization within the community. A significant portion of the discussion centered on how the Parks Board manages the grouping of children by age for various sports activities, ensuring inclusivity and competitiveness.

During the meeting, officials explained their approach to age grouping, which is primarily based on registration numbers. For instance, if there is only one child registered for a specific age group, such as a 9-year-old in soccer, they may be grouped with younger players to foster participation rather than forcing them to switch sports. The Parks Board aims to create balanced teams, grouping children into categories like 3-4 years, 5-6 years, and so on, to maintain a competitive yet enjoyable environment.

The board also discussed their flexibility in adjusting team placements during the season. If a child demonstrates significantly higher skill levels than their peers, they may be moved to a more appropriate age group after consulting with their parents. This adaptability is intended to enhance the child's experience while ensuring that all participants remain engaged and challenged.

Additionally, the Parks Board highlighted the use of an app designed to streamline communication and information access for coaches and staff, further supporting the organization of youth sports.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Parks Board's commitment to fostering a positive environment for youth sports, emphasizing inclusivity and the development of skills among young athletes. The board plans to continue refining their approach to ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate and grow in their chosen sport.