Not only did the coronavirus pandemic cut short in-class learning for our area youth, it also curtailed organized recreational activities. Carroll Director of Parks and Recreation, Jack Wardell, says they had a sign up for youth baseball and softball in late winter, but it was right as COVID was hitting the state. As a result, the participation level was low and they were not able to put together the minimum number of players for the league. But when Gov. Kim Reynolds lifted some restrictions, the city decided to offer a shortened youth baseball/softball season. Wardell says they opened up a two-week registration window in June and the number of players registered remained comparatively low.
The first games of 2020 will be held Monday, July 6 at the Youth Sports Complex near the Carroll Middle School. Wardell says they are asking all parents and spectators to adhere to some familiar guidelines.
Bathrooms will be open, but the concession stand will remain closed. Wardell says they are also asking that equipment not be shared.
There will be hand sanitizer and spray for disinfecting at the fields and they are working to cordon off areas in the dugouts to have kids social distance while playing. When the game is over, everyone is asked to disperse. Wardell says there will be no tournaments this season.
According to Wardell, the Rec Center is hoping to be able to host a soccer camp this year and then head into flag football for the fall. But even though there are plans in place for a four-week baseball season and to resume fall activities, Wardell says this continues to be a very fluid situation and those plans can change quickly. They encourage anyone with questions to call the Rec Center at 792-5400 or to check their Facebook page for updates.
