I am the middle school soccer coach for Lopez this season. I have firsthand experience in how CRITICAL Parks and Recreation will be for our community.

This school year the middle school sports budget was cut. There are no school funds to hire a coach or to go off island for games. But we have made it work! Barely. The Pack has covered ferry tickets, and gas for off island games. Families have sent money with their students for lunch and dinner off island. I have volunteered 10hrs a week while working two other jobs, and off island school to work around.

THANKFULLY parents and school staff have graciously filled in the many gaps. As a middle school coach, myself and others are spending our own money for snacks and extra needed supplies. I volunteered to coach middle school soccer, with no soccer experience. But I can watch YouTube videos, and herd middle schoolers. The time and energy I am investing is 100% worth it to me. But it is by no means sustainable. School sports are not the only place where our community relies on the dedication of individual volunteers. Parks and Recreation would create the structure and resources that will allow activities and programs to continue. That is I believe our greatest duty as adults, to create systems that continue to provide for future generations. Join me and vote yes for “Lopez Rec.”

Coach Niko Broughe

Lopez Island