We remain staunch believers that PG should allow the field to be open to adult soccer play – and any other sport appropriate to the field – as part of the “public access” available to all Pacific Grove residents, including the use of lights up to a reasonable hour.

1) Soccer is not hard on the turf field, because UV radiation is the primary cause of degradation over its 12 year life span. It is clear that soccer puts far less stress on the running surface than a football game or a lacrosse game.

2) As a fundraiser, the 30+ group run by the PG High soccer team has been particularly successful in raising funds without volunteers from the community. The first season last summer raised over $4200. This winter season should provide a greater amount. This is primarily the effort of just a few people. Member of the PG Boys team were suggested to volunteer to be line judges, getting volunteer hours for their efforts. This money goes directly to purchasing jerseys and other supplies for the PG soccer team.

3) Soccer in particular encompasses all ages and genders. We play with women, youth, men above 60, and individuals as young as 11 from a range of careers and experiences. Roughly 120 men and women are able to exercise regularly thanks to use of the field, many of whom are PGUSD residents. A good game over an hour or so is easily a 5k for average players and a 10K for a few. And you can run / not run as much or little as possible.

Overall, we are asking simply for continued public access without one group being allowed to define "public" in a specific image. The fundraising efforts provide public access in a manner appropriate to a number of PGUSD residents. This includes some lights and play after normal working hours. And re-iterating, any track use or stadium stair running with the lights on is bonus time, time that would not otherwise be available. District costs are minimal – the donation of lights for the fundraiser. The field is in no manner being overtaxed. The benefits on multiple fronts – exercise, volunteer hours, funding for high school sports, community growth – are recognizable and strengthen the district.

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