7994-R1_MechanicFalls_20-21_AnnualReport_Text_4C_Web

RECREATION COMMITTEE

After a year of uncertainty and limited program offerings, the Mechanic Falls Recreation Department was able to offer a full-slate of (mostly masked) activities through the year. It goes without saying that the volunteer coaches, assistants, and recreation committee members were challenged to keep the players motivated, engaged, and involved while the world around us was in an

ever-changing state requirements and regulations. Additionally, the parents of the players that participated also exercised great attitude and empathy as we all worked hard to pull in the same direction. Our soccer program has grown into being a joint effort with the town of Poland and has been full of several success stories. With access to more fields and the ability to pool resources, our teams have experienced more success and better quality of play over the last 2 years. The recreation basketball program has seen some of the most significant effects of the pandemic with many families opting to not participate due to the additional level of restrictions due to the play happening indoors. The players powered through with teams at each level culminating in a championship appearance from the 5/6th grade girls’ team. Ultimately, they came up against a tough Oxford Hills team, but put up a significant challenge! Finally, baseball and softball are now fully integrated with the town of Poland similarly pooling resources to create the most opportunities for our players. Going into 2022, we have 18 teams across all of our divisions competing on some of the most beautiful fields in the region! Thank you to the Mechanic Falls Public Works Department for all of their hard work, effort, and energy to help maintain our fields with a dedicated group of volunteers. A special thank you to Jay Bryant, Andy Coleman, and Rick Cummings for their work on the fields and helping to keep them ready for games all season! Sincerely, Justin Starbird Recreation Committee Chair

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