“I still think boys are more important than grass.”
That’s what Dr. J.O. Bowman, speaker for the newly formed Delta Amateur Sports Association, told Delta’s parks commission at a heated meeting in July 1965, demanding better sports facilities for youth.
The new association included representatives from Delta soccer, football, baseball and softball amateur groups, representing over 1,500 players.
They were determined to improve the immediate and long-term needs for sports facilities in Delta.
The lack of facilities, poor condition of South Delta’s playing fields and scheduling conflicts were the biggest issues for sports groups at that time.
Commission chair Bill Clipperton at the meeting announced that a special committee would be formed to investigate the parks needs of the municipality.
He noted a report would be coming to council that fall, likely with recommendations that would include having a referendum authorizing the purchase of necessary land.
Fast forward to 2023 and much has changed. City council approved ending several civic committees including the Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission. However, Delta's sport groups are to have an enhanced opportunity to engage directly with council through the new City of Delta Sports and Culture Councils - Indoor/Outdoor.
Mayor George Harvie and council members will host separate summits twice annually for the indoor and outdoor sport user groups as well as culture stakeholders.
