Dear Editor,
Have you ever been to a ball field where a kid was scared to slide into a base because they knew the ground beneath them was like concrete?
Have you ever been to a game where a coach has to call timeout to pick up large rocks from the base lines and infield?
Have you ever been to a game where the coach has to call time and go shovel dirt from a pile to bring to the field to fill in a hole on the pitchers mound or in the batters box because he doesn't want to risk the child breaking his ankle?
Have you ever been to a game where there's no lines painted on the field? Have you ever been to a game where every time a kid slides into second or third base the base flies up into the air?
If you said no to those questions then you've never been to the Wardell Leach Complex!
I find it sad that Mr. Burton was lashed out at for wanting a change for our youth in Yazoo, what's so wrong with wanting to hold those in charge accountable for the conditions our complex and all other fields are in? I'm not sure how that makes him a racist considering children and families of many demographics use the facilities.
My family has been a part of the sports in Yazoo for seven years and I'm here to tell you our facilities are nothing short of TERRIBLE. It's sad when you can't practice but 30 minutess because you can't get anyone to come turn lights on for you to see. My understanding is the groundskeeper is paid a yearly salary yet when you call him on the phone you are told you called after he got off work or it's a weekend or it's a holiday. At my job salary means you are paid an amount year round to be on call at all times, salary workers are there when needed...not when they want to be.
I don't feel like an adequate job is being done and the excuse of not having any help is just that an excuse if that's the case take him off salary pay him a hourly wage and hire someone to help him since he's not accessible when needed anyhow. I have nothing against Mr. Campbell. He's a great man, but when it comes down to business feelings and friendships have to be put to the side so what is right can be achieved.
Mr. Wright stated he feels our fields are in good condition. One of two things are true if that's the case: 1. He hasn't been to our fields or 2. He doesn't take pride in his community.
Our fields are an eyesore and an embarrassment. I've been to tournaments where outsiders have attended and I've heard them talk about how trashy and sad our complex looks from the fields to the restrooms and batting cages.
I challenge every single board member and supervisor to visit our complex on any given Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday night and just talk to parents, coaches, and spectators and I bet 9 out of 10 times you'll get the same response and feedback!!!
Jessica Wilson
