I have been coaching youth baseball in the Federal Way area for the past 28 years. I am always asked, “Why is there little interest in baseball with the youth?”

One, the cost of playing baseball has become very expensive compared to playing soccer or basketball for instance. The ability to just go out and hit a ball with friends is limited. The fields you can go use are dangerous and the ones that are in good shape are closed to the community for play.

It never used to be this much of an issue but with the budget cuts and city maintenance personnel numbers being low, maintenance on the fields is practically non-existent. Baseball is a difficult sport to play and requires a lot of practice to become a good athlete in the sport.

Baseball also teaches life lessons and the value of failure. Our area has produced many successful baseball players that have opportunities to go to college on scholarships and even to the pro level. Making it better for our youth to participate in this great sport is very valuable and doesn’t require a large commitment on the community’s part. At least get our fields in good condition so the areas will be safe for those who want to play.

J. Roberts

Federal Way