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East Point Kids Booted From Soccer Field Mid-Season
29 Sep
Summary
- Youth soccer team displaced mid-season due to field access issues.
- Parents dispute cleanup concerns, citing restaurant's inaction.
- New field location poses transportation challenges for families.
A group of East Point children's soccer practices were moved to Sumner Park on Neely Avenue, with the city offering the space for the remainder of the fall season. This change occurred after the youth soccer team lost access to its previous field in downtown East Point, which was located near Oz Pizza. Parents stated the displacement mid-season was upsetting.
Concerns regarding parking and cleanup were cited as reasons for the former field's unavailability. However, parents disputed the cleanup claims, asserting they had actively maintained the area and that the restaurant had not. The former field's proximity to an East Point MARTA station facilitated access for children, a key aspect of the Soccer in the Streets program's 'StationSoccer' initiative.
The new location at Sumner Park is not near a MARTA station, creating transportation challenges for families, particularly those without cars. While some young players appreciate the larger field size at Sumner Park, the program is reportedly in ongoing discussions with partners to secure a permanent practice location for future seasons. Practice times have also been adjusted due to reduced daylight.
