MIDVALE — A fastpitch softball league serving nearly 300 girls in the Southeast Valley is concerned it may be forced to disband due to a proposed Salt Lake County construction project at Midvale's Union Park. Organizers for the Mt. Olympus Fastpitch Softball League say plans for a new recreation center could eliminate two of the three softball fields they regularly use, threatening the league's future if alternative fields are not found.
TheThe league, which began three years ago, has experienced significant growth since its first season. Jamie Walker, president of Mt. Olympus Fastpitch Softball League, stated that the league initially had 120 girls enrolled, ranging from four years old through high school. Since then, participation has nearly tripled, now reaching just under 300 girls in its third fall season, according to Walker. Most of these games are played at Union Park.
League organizers expressed concern after hearing reports that Salt Lake County may begin a construction project within the park. This project, a $21 million Union Park Recreation Center in Midvale, is designed to be built directly on the site of two of the park's three existing softball fields, according to current plans.
Walker highlighted the potential impact on the young athletes, noting that the project would affect the girls and could lead to the loss of a league that is currently in high demand. The funding for this recreation center, along with other county park and trail improvements, hinges on voter approval of the $128 million Recreation General Obligation Bond on November 3.
For many players, Union Park holds significant meaning. Jemma Corey, a player on team 'Baddies,' said the fields are "just a part of us," noting that many girls started playing there. She also mentioned that the league helps players make new friends and support each other as new members join each year.
A primary reason the league has designated Union Park as its home is the reported scarcity of dedicated softball fields for girls on the east side of Salt Lake County. Madelyn Corey, a coach for team 'Baddies,' pointed out that there are no girls' softball fields dedicated from the county north of Draper and east of I-15, except for these.
Walker recounted the league's previous efforts to secure playing space when it first started. They initially sought to play at the Larry H. Miller softball complex in Millcreek. However, according to Walker, county officials informed them that the complex was unavailable, stating it was being used every Saturday, every weekend of the year, other than winter. Walker further added that there are no other complexes on the east side of Salt Lake available for their use.
The league is now hoping to initiate a dialogue with Salt Lake County officials. They aim to explore options that could allow both the new recreation center to be built and the existing softball fields to be preserved. Walker expressed a desire for the league to be involved in conversations where government officials recognize the value of not displacing 300 children who are actively engaged and enjoying the park.
As of the time of publication, Salt Lake County had not provided a response to inquiries from FOX 13 News regarding the league's concerns.
