Letter: Reader Supports Track Project

I am not going reiterate all of the financials and points made in the previous articles. I simply want to emphasize the impact the track and field has on the youth of this town. As a resident of Canton since 1994 and a father of two (8 and 14 years), I have had the tremendous gift of having been able to coach at the youth level for the past 8 years in softball, soccer, basketball and lacrosse.  There are very few things in life that are more gratifying than watching a child take on a new challenge and accomplish it. The look on their face when they can see and feel their own improvements is irreplaceable. Life lessons abound in these team situations. I am now watching many of these kids rise up into High School and at the same time, watching the rise in numbers still at the youth level.  Interest in athletics is undeniably strong in Canton, and the benefits are numerous.

If you’ve spent even a small amount of time involved in sports in this town, it does not take long to realize that the constraints are fields and a running track.  The reasons are not just for safety, quality and schedule, but also for pride and confidence. As a member of the Athletic Review Committee this year, I can say that this was also evident in the results of the Athletic survey that was conducted as a part of that effort.

For the remainder of us in the community that won’t play at the youth or High School level, the track means a safe place to walk/run/play for exercise that is close to our car and in a public place.

Understanding that yes this town does need many things such as roads, roofs, and a garage, please realize that the time is now for financing advantages and the numbers are relatively small. This is something the kids are pulling for and are relying on the legal voters to accomplish for them. Please vote yes in tomorrow’s election.