Vandalism Continues at LMSA Soccer Fields
As approximately 400 local youth soccer players eagerly anticipate the beginning of their spring season on April 3rd, the Lakehurst Manchester Soccer Fields have fallen victim to yet another round of damaging vandalism.
This past year has seen fences torn down, goals damaged beyond repair, attempted break-in’s to facility bathrooms and a successful break in to the Association snack stand. This latest incident, consisting of a vehicle tearing up the playing fields, has left 2 fields significantly damaged with one unrepairable in time for opening weekend. The teams will not be able to use this field for the entire season.
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All building and field maintenance at the Association is handled by a small, dedicated group of volunteers. The volunteers continue to maintain the complex in order to ensure registration fees remain affordable for local families. Costly repairs may necessitate raising registration fees in order to continue to maintain the complex.
Over the past several years, Lakehurst Manchester Soccer Association has seen a significant increase in the number of registered players. The club serves children of the community starting with players as young as 3 and continuing with teams into the high school age group. Not only have registration numbers significantly increased, the club teams continue to successfully compete at higher levels. In the past year LMSA has seen two first place division winners, five 2nd place finishes and two 3rd place finishes. The club has also successfully hosted an annual “Howling Halloween” tournament for the last 5 years which attracts approximately 80 soccer teams from around the state.
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Please help LMSA prevent further damage. The club is offering a reward for any information leading to the identification of the individuals responsible. All tips will remain completely anonymous. If you have any information, please contact LMSA at 732-323-0337 or contact a board member directly. All board members contact information can be found at LMSAsoccer.com.
By Kathie Peluso
