New Lima Schools

From Mr. Lee, New Lima Athletic Director:

Parents and community, I want to take a moment to explain why we charge a gate fee at our athletic events.
Lately, we’ve noticed some folks arriving early or finding ways around the gate to avoid paying the $5 entry. I understand times are tough and every dollar matters, but when that happens, it directly hurts our kids’ programs.
We don’t make money off gate sales. That $5 charge is there to cover the cost of officials. For example, a regular baseball night with one 7-inning game and one 5-inning game costs $155 per umpire, and we have two most nights. That’s $310 just for officials in one evening. Those prices are standard for officials and are an expense all schools incur for athletics.
If the gate and concessions don’t cover those costs, the money has to come out of our Athletic Fund, the same fund that buys uniforms, basketballs, baseballs, bats, and all the other equipment our athletes need to compete.
I’d love for there to be no gate fees at all, but the reality is our programs don’t generate enough revenue to make that possible right now. Please remember: games don’t just “happen” for free. There are real costs involved every single time our athletes take the field or court.
We are deeply grateful for the support our community has always shown. As your AD, I will continue to look for ways to reduce costs whenever possible. In the meantime, I’m asking for your help to support our kids by supporting the gate.

Thank you,
Kent Lee
Athletic Director
New Lima Public Schools