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Y Attachment Subcommittee on Access Issues : Expanding Participation in Soccer in Orange County Orange County can choose from a number of viable strategies in order to expand the diversity of residents participating in recreational soccer leagues . These strategies include increasing the number of fields and widening their distribution throughout the county ; controlling the costs of participation ; reaching out specifically to minority communities ; adding field lighting to extend hours of usefulness ; improving the coordination of activities ; and decreasing the size of team rosters . This report addresses each of these approaches . Transportation : .Transportation to practice fields is a major problem for many in our community , especially young people and segments of the Latino population . If practices could be held at local school soccer fields , and new practice fields could be built in neighborhoods that are on bus lines , transportation problems could be reduced . Orange Public Transportation could also be enlisted to provide service in certain areas . For the most part , current league play isn 't a realistic option for families with working parents because practice and games .are often during normal working hours . Special consideration should also be given to placing some new fields in the northern part of Orange County . Presently , most residents of northern Orange must travel to Chapel . Hill to play. This creates a situation where travel time is greater than time spent on the field . Cost : The cost of enrollment in a soccer program is often a barrier to participation . Many of the existing leagues charge hundreds of dollars to participate , and even with scholarships the cost is too high for many families . If Orange County could help minimize fees , leagues could attract players who otherwise can ' t participate and currently aren ' t represented . Outreach : The demographic mix might be improved by more active, outreach to minority communities . Working through schools , community organizations , neighborhood resource centers and other established groups could be effective in increasing minority participation . Opportunity Better and more numerous fields would attract players who have either chosen not to play , or have decided to play elsewhere . Many children and adults travel to other counties to find adequate facilities . Lighted fields increase the number of games and practices possible per field . Lighted fields extend playing time and offer a.. chance to many who currently can ' t get to a game or practice due to their daytime responsibilities . Smaller team rosters occasioned by more playing options would mean more time participating and an improved experience , likely attracting more players . As it is now , teams often have more than twenty players , resulting in much sideline time for individuals .