Dear Lakewood Little League Members,

We want to address a significant change that our league is undergoing. After careful consideration and deliberation, we have made the difficult decision to discontinue the upper divisions of baseball within our league. We understand that this decision may be met with mixed emotions, but we believe it is the right course of action for several compelling reasons:

1. Increased Numbers of Travel Baseball Organizations: Over the years, we have witnessed a substantial rise in the number of travel baseball organizations in our area. These organizations often provide a higher level of competition and specialized training that cater to players seeking a more advanced level of play. This shift has made it challenging to maintain competitive upper division teams within our league.

2. Lack of Facilities to Support Upper Division Teams: Our league's existing facilities were primarily designed to accommodate our minor divisions. While we have done our best to adapt and enhance our facilities, they are not equipped to meet the demands of upper division baseball, which often require more extensive resources and space.

3. Lack of Resources to Support Upper Division Teams: The financial burden associated with running upper division teams has become increasingly challenging to sustain. These teams demand more equipment, field maintenance, and administrative resources, diverting precious funds from our minor divisions and their development.

4. Additional Expenses That Take Away from Minor Divisions: The additional costs associated with upper division baseball, such as travel, specialized coaching, and advanced equipment, have proven to be a significant strain on our league's budget. By eliminating these expenses, we can redirect our resources towards improving and expanding our minor divisions, creating a more robust and accessible baseball experience for all.

5. Lack of Coaching Experience for High-Level Baseball Play: Coaching high-level baseball requires a unique skill set and experience. In many instances, we have struggled to find coaches with the expertise necessary to guide our upper division teams effectively. This has impacted the quality of coaching and the overall experience for our players.

6. Pony and Colt Organizations Around the Area: We recognize that there are established Pony and Colt organizations in our region that can better cater to the needs of players looking for a higher level of competition. By discontinuing our upper divisions, we hope to encourage players to explore these alternatives while still enjoying the benefits of our minor divisions.

We understand that this decision may come as a disappointment to some, especially those who have enjoyed participating in our upper divisions. However, our primary goal is to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of our league while providing the best possible experience for all our members. We remain committed to nurturing young talent, fostering a love for baseball, and creating a positive environment for players of all ages and skill levels.

We appreciate your understanding and support as we navigate these changes, and we look forward to continuing to serve our community through the sport of baseball.

Sincerely,

Lakewood Little League Board of Directors