Letters

Softball pays for Franklin fields

In regard to the youth baseball group wanting exclusive use of Franklin Park’s fields for kids (April 22 North Voice): The softball complex at Franklin Park was built with “softball” money, and it’s also maintained with softball funds – mowing of the grass; infield preparation; bases; pitching rubbers; field lines; repairs to the backstops, fences and bleachers; electricity; cleaning the area; and repairs to vandalism.

Funds also pay for the lawn mower, the operation of the concession stand, unforeseen costs, along with the insurance required for the use of the facility.

The city pays for the water used at the facility, plus softball pays the city to use the complex. Can the youth baseball association afford the total cost?

In my opinion, children 5 years old are too young to start playing the sport. By the time they reach high school, most stop playing. They are tired of the regimentation and pressure. Coaches and parents push too much; the children are regimented to succeed and achieve high goals before they mature. This is why adult softball is on a decline.

There is no fastpitch, limited or modified softball, only slowpitch. No women’s teams, a few coed teams. The same goes for swimming. Every outdoor pool used to have a novice swim, synchronized and diving team. Now, there is one swim team in Spokane.

The computer age has taken over. Don’t go outside and play, play on the computer.

John Tuft

Spokane