Mr. Stevens:

I'm quite sure you have had a number of emails and other correspondence concerning the MPA's suggestion to limit sports teams in games played and the pulling out of the New Englands. I won't bother to talk about officials pay (I was a working basketball official for more than 25 years). My daughter, as a Freshman, had the opportunity to compete at the New England Track meet last year in Saco. In the great scheme of things, this was and probably will forever be one of her fondest memories. This meet and others like them (cross county) give college recruiters an opportunity to see a large amount of talent all in one place. Christmas tournaments in basketball allow for a student athlete to be showcased a little bit more than regular season. Your own school has a number of outstanding athletes that will definitely move on in their college careers. Chelsea Tewell is a fine example. She is capable of winning the New Englands, however this proposal not only stops our school districts from paying for them, it stops our outstanding athletes from going. The entrance fee for the New Englands last year was $15.00. If you and your fellow MPA members feel the cost is too much ( I understand the travel and all associated with it), then allow the athletes to participate at their own cost. I for one would have no problem in footing the bill to make this happen. Traip already has a $75 per player per sport transportation fee, what is a few more dollars?

Just what will this save in our schools overall budget? Maybe $3000 for the entire year......

Thanks for your time and consideration in this matter.

Dave O'Brien

Kittery, Maine