Letter: PAL changes bad for kids

To the editor:
   
As a long-time resident and a parent of a 13-year-old son who has played in the SBAA(baseball), SBBC (Bandits Baseball), PAL (wrestling and flag football) and SBSC (soccer), I must address the recent decision by PAL to effectively drop flag football.
   I agree wholeheartedly with Chris Mariano that the proposed move to "spring flag football," effectively sounds the death knell of PAL sponsorship of the program.
   Our experience with the PAL flag football program as parents, coach and participant was very rewarding. The "low impact" program allowed our son to participate with his friends in a competitive sport, while still allowing participation in baseball.
   My opinion is that youth tackle football is not appropriate youth before the advent of puberty or middle school based on time commitment — Aug. 1 to December, practices every day — and injury risk, lack of actual games played or playing time v. time practicing. The reason for declining participation in the PAL tackle programs is clear: More and more parents are echoing our family’s feelings on the prospect of a violent, dangerous sport for our pre-pubescent son, and opting for alternatives.
   If the PAL declines to sponsor a fall flag football program, I am sure other alternatives will be readily available.
Kenneth White

Monmouth Junction