Changes coming to youths sports organization in Vernon Hills
Issues with a long-standing youth athletic group in Vernon Hills apparently have shaken out with the formation of two new entities to run various sports programs.
The change, effective Feb. 1, will result in a restructuring of how sports programs are managed and the elimination of the Vernon Hills Cougars Youth Athletic Association.
"That changes their affiliation with us - the old one is dissolving and going away," said Jim Ballowe, president of the Vernon Hills Park District.
The Vernon Hills Community Baseball & Softball organization will operate community baseball and softball and travel baseball, which are available in spring and summer to kids ages 4 to 16.
The Vernon Hills Sports Clubs will run the lacrosse, travel basketball, tackle and flag football and cheerleading programs, which are offered primarily in the fall and winter.
The announcement was made by the Cougars in partnership with the Vernon Hills Park District. A public session to discuss the changes is set for 7 to 9 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 28, at the Laschen Community Center, 294 E. Evergreen Drive, Vernon Hills.
The Cougars long have been an affiliate of the park district and get priority use of facilities. That relationship has been strained at times with periodic questions regarding the organization's operation and record keeping.
"There were issues with the Cougars," Ballowe said. He declined to elaborate but said the new entities will work to have better communication with parents and other parties.
"As far as the kids, they won't notice any difference," he said.
Residents Bill Polisson will serve as president of the baseball and softball arm, and Jeff Wilgus will head the sports clubs. Both are on the Cougars board of directors. Wilgus was involved with Cougars youth sports programs for many years and coached football.
He also has been the commissioner of boys lacrosse, the newest of Cougars sports. Polisson has been a coach for baseball, softball, basketball and flag football since 2008. He was tournament director the past three seasons and last year headed the baseball and softball portion of the Cougars organization.
According to the park district, the split will allow organizations to focus on their respective sports. Each will form a board of directors, with the structure and operating principles to be forthcoming.
Cougars President Mark Peterson declined to discuss specifics.
"We want to let the process work out with the public and the town-hall meeting," he said.