Don't Revoke WSP Sports Permits at BIP

Dear Department of Parks and Recreation:

We were recently informed that permits for the Bushwick Inlet Park (BIP) would not be given to the organizers of the World Soccer Project (WSP). The many of us that loyally support WSP are quite upset. The effective leadership of this new organization is unlike any other league. We hope the board will reconsider the decision to grant permits at BIP to the World Soccer Project.

What sets these Sunday evenings apart from other forms of recreation is the league's emphasis on internal camaraderie as well as that of the surrounding communities. It provides the opportunity to not only play soccer, but to affect local education projects for marginalized children. These objectives provide safe and competitive recreation in a community of young adults bonded by larger ties than just the sport. The participant fees support the partnership with the Fund for Public Schools, the Steve Nash Foundation and others. Without the fees, the World Soccer Project cannot fulfill its commitment to organizations that need them most.

While we realize the board has the right to refuse permits, we want to inform you of the impact of this league on the neighborhood. After two seasons with the young WSP, every team (and nearly ever player) has returned because the organization has high standards on and off the field. It provides the opportunity to cultivate great soccer, leadership and friendship. The World Soccer Project makes efficient use of the space, allowing recreation at a convenient time and price for more than 100 young adults. (The late Sunday evenings also do not conflict with children and other youth programs.)

There must be an alternative for the blanket ban of field permits. While rotating permits prevents a monopoly of prime field time by any one league, it has the unintended consequence of shutting down organizations that are beneficial to the community and actively improve the reputation of city parks.