7574-R1_LGP_MechanicFalls_AnnualReport_2021_Text_4C_Web

RECREATION COMMITTEE

2020 was wild! The world changed around us, and there were no guidelines or standard operating procedures to follow. The challenges haven't stopped. Our small town of Mechanic Falls was no different. One of the challenges that don't get enough attention in the endless news cycle is how challenging it has been to provide kids with opportunities to play. Despite the challenges, the dedicated team of volunteers on the recreation committee could still offer opportunities to the Mechanic Falls Community's young members all year round.

Facilities: With the support of some great partners, like A&D Construction, Kimball Logging, and the Mechanic Falls Public Works Department, we broke ground on a redevelopment to the municipal fields. We were able to clear the pucker brush and level the area behind the tee ball and Babe Ruth Fields. Over the course of the next couple of years, we will be able to add another full-sized ball field, as well as have a multipurpose field that can host soccer, football, field hockey, and other activity that requires a larger area of grass. By doing this (without having to ask the town for a bond), we will become even less reliant on others to offer top notch programming at an affordable cost for our youth. With the level of use decreasing this past year, the rec committee was also able to add some many overdue maintenance applications to the fields. Baseball, Softball, and Tee Ball: With the pandemic in full force through the spring, were severely limited in the offerings. We were able to offer team opportunities at each level, just delayed by a couple of months. As a result of being able to offer programming, our Majors Softball program had one of the best seasons in recent memory! Soccer: Our fall season offered the first glimpse of how sports would be played. All of our players wore masks for the first time and really worked hard to stay safe under the circumstances. Basketball: Due to state restrictions, we did not participate in a full 2020-21 season. Instead, we combined with Minot and Poland to offer a “skills and drills” program for over 40 kids in the communities. Adult Programming: The adult programming for summer/fall softball and basketball has all been subject to the same restrictions as the youth. With the loss of space to participate, the recreation committee has been creative in working with the town to make programming work. Even though there was a delay, we were able to offer both summer and fall softball leagues as well as a limited adult basketball program. These activities (and fees) go a long way to support the men and women of our community that are trying to stay fit and active as well as support the costs of running the youth sports programs.

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