Field task force weighs Little League conflict with parade weekend plans

WELLESLEY -- The Playing Field Task Force, meeting Oct. 9, approved field permits for a girls' soccer clinic fundraiser and a community fun run, while spending much of the session on a scheduling conflict involving Little League and a proposed helicopter-ride feature planned for next year's Wellesley's Wonderful Weekend.

HIGH SCHOOL -- The task force approved a field permit for a girls' soccer fundraiser clinic, which organizers said the program has run in past years without logistical issues, after confirming there were no conflicts with the athletics department.

YOUTH LEAGUES -- Little League representative Ann told the task force that Kelly Field hosts four diamonds in near-continuous use on weekends, with games scheduled at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and again later in the day for youth baseball and softball programs. She said Little League could not easily give up that space, noting the league has already lost use of Reedy Field and no longer has access to the Hardy fields. She suggested the Wellesley Youth Soccer complex at Ouellette might be a workable alternative if an outdoor venue is needed elsewhere in town.

COMMUNITY -- The task force also approved a permit for a fun run held during Wellesley's Wonderful Weekend at the track and field complex; officials noted that the entire Hunnewell/Honeywell complex is typically closed that Sunday for fireworks setup. Separately, Wellesley Celebrations Committee member Carl Nelson outlined plans for next year's event built around an aviation theme marking the Air Force's 80th anniversary and the anniversary of powered flight, which could include a paid helicopter-ride experience. After learning the plan would conflict heavily with Little League's use of Kelly Field, Nelson said organizers will instead look at alternative sites, including the high school parking lot or the former Harvard Pilgrim lot near Route 128, and will avoid requesting Kelly Field outright. Task force members also urged youth sports organizations to adjust Sunday morning schedules so players can attend the town's parade, which assembles at noon and concludes by 3 p.m.

Compiled from team and league reports, reader submissions, and local coverage.