The following letter was sent to the Amherst Town Council and Town Manager Paul Bockelman on December 8, 2025.

I am the parent of four children and have been a resident of Amherst for more than 30 years. My three older children graduated from the Amherst public schools after successful experiences in soccer, track, volleyball, and several other sports. Their participation in athletics contributed significantly to their academic success and provided structured, healthy activities that kept them engaged and supported.

My youngest son is now in 7th grade, and I am concerned that the current athletic offerings at the middle school are extremely limited—and in some cases nonexistent. The absence of accessible, structured sports opportunities is a real loss for our students at a critical age. For the past two years, I have contacted school administrators to request the addition of boys’ soccer to the fall schedule and indoor track to the winter schedule. I was recently informed that these requests must be directed to the town, as the town oversees middle-school recreational athletics.

The Morning Movement and Mentoring program before school is appreciated and is a valid effort, but it does not address the need for appropriate after-school athletics. After-school hours are when students most need structured, engaging, skill-building activities. Amherst often speaks about investing in its people. Please do so now—by investing in the youth who will shape the future of this community.

It is important for the town to understand how closely connected middle school offerings are to the health of our high school athletic program. Amherst High School athletics operate on a very lean budget. The Athletic Director meets with athletic directors across Western Massachusetts well before each season to plan cooperative teams (“co-ops”), which are formed when a school does not have enough high school athletes to field a team. When numbers fall short, the high school can apply for a waiver to allow 7th and 8th graders to participate. If that still isn’t enough, the school seeks co-op partnerships with neighboring districts. For example, student athletes from Granby and Pathfinder can participate in Amherst football program. Amherst does not have a girls ice hockey team, so interested athletes participate at Longmeadow. Hopkins participates in the Amherst swimming program and Amherst athletes can participate in the wrestling program at Granby. When the high school has enough student athletes—as they do in boys’ soccer and indoor track—middle schoolers cannot participate, regardless of skill, because these rules are governed by the MIAA. This highlights why a strong feeder program at the middle school level is essential.

This year, for example, Amherst was only able to field a single varsity girls’ basketball team due to low participation. Although middle school athletes are allowed to play to help fill a roster, high school players cannot be cut to make space for a more skilled middle school athlete. This reality underscores how essential it is for Amherst to provide strong, consistent youth and middle school development programs. Without early opportunities, fewer students enter high school prepared or confident enough to join a team.

The town should be working in collaboration with the Athletic Director to support and enhance the full pipeline of athletic opportunities—from youth through high school. Our students deserve programs that develop skills, build confidence, and create continuity across levels.

Moreover, expanding middle school sports does not require major investment. Soccer and track require minimal equipment, and the middle school gym could easily accommodate indoor soccer or winter conditioning. Amherst’s proximity to several colleges also presents an excellent opportunity to partner with college students seeking community engagement or academic fieldwork experience.

Middle school is a pivotal age. Students benefit enormously from positive, structured activities between the end of the school day and the late bus—time that too often is spent on phones or unsupervised at home. Athletics promote equity, physical and mental health, and the sense of belonging that every adolescent needs.

There has been extensive discussion in Amherst about the importance of investing in our people. I urge the town to extend that investment to our youth by expanding athletic opportunities at the middle school level. Survey families. Engage students. Ask them what programs they want. They are the future of our community, and strengthening youth athletics is a direct investment in their well-being, development, and long-term success.

Renata Shepard

Renata Shepard is a resident of Amherst.

Despite heterogeneity in youth-onset type 2 diabetes (T2D), clustering does not currently outperform simple clinical measures in predicting risk for complications, according to study results published in Diabetes Care.

Clustering has emerged as a promising strategy to shift diabetes care from a one-size-fits-all model toward precision medicine. However, given the gaps in knowledge about youth-onset T2D compared with adult-onset diabetes, the comparative clinical utility between clustering and simple clinical measures remains unclear.

In this observational cohort study, researchers performed phenotypic clustering of youths with T2D onset to assess whether distinct clusters offered meaningful clinical utility.

The study included individuals diagnosed with T2D before 20 years of age from the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth (SEARCH; n=333) and Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth (TODAY; n=525) studies. Participants were excluded if they were taking a cholesterol-lowering medication or had a positive pancreatic autoantibody test.

Nevertheless, cluster membership did not add clinical utility beyond simple clinical measures for predicting outcomes.

In a diverse subset of autoantibody-negative T2D cases, the researchers conducted data-driven clustering into 3 clusters: youth-onset insulin-deficient diabetes (YIDD-T2), youth-onset insulin-resistant diabetes, and intermediate youth-onset diabetes. Differences among clusters were tested using Kruskal–Wallis with Wilcoxon post hoc comparisons for continuous variables and χ² tests for categorical variables.

The primary outcome was loss of glycemic control and treatment failure as defined by hemoglobin A1c (HbA_1c) of at least 8% over 6 months or the need for insulin.

Three clinically distinct clusters with different rates of treatment failure emerged in both SEARCH and TODAY. Cluster 1 individuals (25.5%) showed the highest fasting glucose, HbA_1c, and triglycerides; Cluster 2 individuals (40.5%) had the highest body mass index (BMI) z-scores; and Cluster 3 individuals (33.9%) demonstrated the highest high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and lowest fasting glucose, HbA_1c, and triglycerides.

Cluster distributions did not differ by race or Tanner stage but varied significantly by sex (P =.004) and medication use (P <.0001): Cluster 3 included the most women (73%) whereas Cluster 2 included the fewest women (53%); Cluster 2 included the highest proportion of individuals on metformin alone (58%), whereas Cluster 1 included the most insulin users (60%).

In the TODAY trial, these clusters showed divergent therapeutic responses and treatment failure risks, with the YIDD-T2 group consistently exhibiting the highest failure rates and the greatest burden of diabetes complications.

Study limitations include the possibility that different input variables may yield different optimal k values; the absence of essential biomarkers, such as complete Tanner staging and liver transaminases; the likelihood that additional complications will emerge with follow-up beyond 10 years; and potential differential risk estimates due to limited follow-up duration.

The study authors concluded, “Youth-onset type 2 diabetes can be characterized into reproducible clusters that demonstrate differential response to treatments and risk of complications. Nevertheless, cluster membership did not add clinical utility beyond simple clinical measures for predicting outcomes.”

IMG Academy’s softball program provides the most effective training environment for student-athletes of various levels and age groups at state-of-the-art facilities.

Training takes place at a premiere softball complex with two natural and two turf fields, eight covered batting cages, and modern locker rooms.

The softball program is IMG Academy’s latest investment in female youth sports designed to open doors for student-athletes worldwide. Additional girls sports boarding school and camp programs offered at IMG Academy include basketball, golf, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, track & field, and volleyball.

What Is it like to play softball at IMG Academy?

IMG Academy’s softball program focuses on developing the total student-athlete through cutting-edge training methodologies.

Why Top Softball Players Choose IMG Academy

From the exceptional training facilities to the highly experienced coaching staff, IMG Academy’s softball program is the best opportunity for student-athletes to reach their full potential.

Players gain access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, such as the 4-plex Softball Complex with two natural and two turf fields, eight covered batting cages, and a Softball Center with modern locker rooms and coaching offices.

When players aren’t training, they can enjoy additional social areas on the IMG Academy campus, including recreational areas and dining options.

Who is the IMG Academy Softball Coach?

On the field, IMG Academy Softball Director Joey Lye leads the coaching staff. She brings 14 years of coaching experience along with an impressive softball playing career, including a bronze medal in the 2021 Olympics.

“This opportunity allows me to bring my passion for the game and my commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes to a place globally known for excellence in sports education,” said Lye. “My experience with Softball Canada, coupled with my background in coaching, playing and personal development, will enable me to build and lead a program empowering softball student-athletes to win their future at every level.”

IMG Academy’s softball program is expertly designed so that student-athletes feel more prepared and confident on the field and are fully equipped to succeed in college and in life.

Learn more about the softball facilities at IMG Academy.

Ready to elevate your softball game?

No matter your level, IMG Academy’s softball camps are tailored to help all student-athletes reach their full potential.

In addition to position-based drills and group training, customizable options include personalized coaching and specialized training in areas such as mental performance, speed & agility, leadership, and injury prevention. These unique training specializations help further set athletes apart from competition and give campers takeaways to significantly impact their game.

Learn more about IMG Academy softball camps.

For youth softball players looking to level up their game, IMG Academy softball camps are available year-round with durations varying by season including 3-day, 5-day, or multiple weeks that reinforce a progressive training curriculum.

There’s something for everyone from those looking to compete in college, make a varsity team roster, or seeking to learn from expert coaches.

Consider the IMG Academy softball boarding school program

Dedicated softball players looking for an innovative year-long training experience that sets them up to compete at the collegiate level will benefit from IMG Academy’s softball boarding school, which mirrors a professional training program.

Learn more about boarding school for softball players.

Twin Creeks Sports Complex to undergo major enhancements as Unrivaled Sports deepens its commitment to Bay Area youth sports

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Dec. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Unrivaled Sports, the nation’s leader in youth sports experiences, today announced the acquisition of Twin Creeks Sports Complex, a recreational landmark in Santa Clara County and the broader South Bay community.

As new leaders of this complex, Unrivaled Sports will invest in Twin Creeks and partner with the communities in Santa Clara County to enhance and expand local and national youth sports opportunities at the facility. Unrivaled Sports plans to preserve the legacy of Twin Creeks while elevating the venue through thoughtful property improvements and diverse sports programming to welcome even more athletes and their families.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Twin Creeks Sports Complex into our growing network of premier youth sports venues and to work hand-in-hand with the communities in Santa Clara County to usher in the next chapter of this long-standing facility,” said Wade Martin, Chief Commercial Officer and CEO, Baseball of Unrivaled Sports. “Our commitment is to elevate Twin Creeks into a truly top-tier sports venue — investing in the improvements and enhancements needed to create a best-in-class experience for athletes, families and fans for years to come.”

Unrivaled Sports plans to invest millions in targeted facility upgrades that will elevate the quality of play and improve the overall experience for athletes and families at Twin Creeks. The company has a proven record of transforming and revitalizing youth sports venues — including recent enhancements across Ripken Baseball facilities and Big League Dreams in Manteca, California — and is ready to bring that same level of investment and care to the next chapter of Twin Creeks.

“The Santa Clara County Parks Department welcomes Unrivaled Sports as our new partner to operate Twin Creeks,” said Todd Lofgren, Director of Santa Clara County Parks. “This partnership reaffirms the Department’s commitment to providing and increasing access to outstanding recreational opportunities within a diverse regional park system for all Santa Clara County residents. Twin Creeks provides local youth spaces to recreate, supporting healthy lifestyles and better public health outcomes for all.”

As part of the Unrivaled Sports family, Twin Creeks will offer a diverse range of programming for local youth athletes, including leagues, clinics and multi-sport opportunities. By expanding the youth sports programming at the facility, Unrivaled Sports aims to enrich the recreational landscape of the South Bay while supporting the next generation of athletes.

Unrivaled Sports will also work to evolve Twin Creeks into a destination property for both regional and national youth sports events. With a proven history of transforming facilities into vibrant sports hubs, Twin Creeks will be elevated in ways that attract families, athletes and teams from across California and beyond.

“San Jose has long established itself as a premier destination for world-class sporting events, a reputation we at the San Jose Sports Authority have worked hard to build since 1991,” said John Poch, Executive Director of the SJSA. “Unrivaled Sports’ investment in the Twin Creeks Sports Complex is fantastic news for our city and the entire South Bay.”

“Their commitment to creating ‘best in class’ facilities and bringing their national network of elite youth tournaments to San Jose aligns perfectly with our mission to drive economic development and civic pride through sports,” Poch continued. “We are confident this will bring the best of the best youth tournaments for baseball, softball and soccer to the Capital of Silicon Valley, creating tremendous opportunities for young athletes and significant positive economic impact for our community.”

Additional Commentary on Unrivaled Sports’ Acquisition of Twin Creeks Sports Complex:

• “Unrivaled Sports has proven to be a fantastic partner,” said Toni Lundgren, City Manager of Manteca, California, the location of Big League Dreams Manteca. “Their quick work in securing the lease and making improvements demonstrates their commitment to our community.”
• “It is incredibly exciting for this community to be working with Unrivaled Sports,” said Danny Ayala, General Manager of Nor Cal Valley Baseball. “Unrivaled Sports and Ripken Baseball are true professionals and have been terrific to work with. Their presence in northern California will bring the best competition to the area and make for amazing events. Youth sports are in good hands with Unrivaled Sports and Twin Creeks”

About Unrivaled Sports

Unrivaled Sports, the nation’s leader in youth sports experiences, delivers best-in-class experiences for young athletes, their families, and communities through a diverse set of brands across youth sports venues, properties, and programming. Unrivaled Sports has welcomed some of the most iconic names in youth sports into its growing family of brands including Cooperstown All Star Village, Ripken Baseball Experiences, Unrivaled Sports ForeverLawn Park, Rocker B Ranch, Diamond Nation, Unrivaled Flag, and We Are Camp action sports. From hosting tournaments to powering hometown leagues, Unrivaled Sports is committed to delivering formative, memory-making experiences to hundreds of thousands of young athletes and their families across the country.

Learn more at unrivaledsports.com and follow @unrivaled.sports

Press Contact:

Eric Nemeth
602-502-2793

SOURCE Unrivaled Sports

Tuesday is Colorado Gives Day, and you can be part of a statewide movement to strengthen our communities. One of the thousands of causes you can support is the YMCA of Metro Denver, one of many organizations ingrained in the community and making a difference in the lives of people of all ages.

YMCA of Metro Denver has been supporting people for more than 150 years. Their offerings include swim lessons for kids, youth sports and before- and after-school care.

Leisha DeSmet, the Chief Development Officer for the YMCA of Metro Denver, talked with CBS Colorado’s Justin Adams about how the YMCA can impact people’s lives in Colorado. 

“We teach thousands of kids every year water safety and how to stay safe in the pool and so that’s what is so important. And contributions today allow us to make sure that every kid learns how to swim, not just those who can afford it,” said Desmet.

The YMCA doesn’t want to turn anyone away who needs its services. Donations to the YMCA help fund scholarships for preschool and child care. Donations also help pay for Y memberships for those who are struggling. 

“I think what makes it so special is number one, it’s for everyone. Number two, we don’t turn anyone away for inability to pay. We welcome everyone, we’re here for all. And also just that sense of community and belonging that the YMCA provides,” said Desmet.

Carrie Maxwell, a mother of three, talked with Adams about how the childcare provided at the YMCA has impacted her life.

“I think for parents, especially new parents or parents of littles, feel so supported, feel like they’re part of the community because not a lot of places in our community are set up for little kids and so it’s a place where everyone feels like they belong, where they can have some fun,” said Maxwell. “We just love it here.”   

Desmet said the Y provides more than just an outlet to improve your physical condition.

“I think it’s so important that people understand that we are a not-for-profit organization.  And this day helps us do that. We’re not just a swim-and-gym; we provide so many other things in addition to that. Not only keeping your body healthy but also keeping your mind active, educating our children, keeping people connected, and a feeling of belonging,” said Desmet. “We’ll see active older adults here later in the day, not only are they working out for their joint replacements and trying to feel better, but they’re also joining classes where they get a real sense of belonging.”  

With donations starting at $5 and going all the way up through large donations made through IRAs or donor-advised funds, everyone has the opportunity to make an impact during Colorado Gives Day.  

The secure online platform — at coloradogives.org — features thousands of verified Colorado nonprofits, all of which have been vetted to confirm their charitable status and that they are in good standing with the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office.  

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – The Rochester City Council approved a bid totaling more than $53 million to Knutson Construction for phase one of the city’s new regional sports and recreation complex in a 5-2 vote Monday night.

The project will use voter-approved funds from the 2023 sales tax extension to develop a 160-acre site on the southeastern edge of the city. The $65 million allocated from the sales tax extension will fund phase one of the project, the outdoor facilities.

The latest outdoor project plans include a mix of eight turf and natural grass baseball fields, two rectangular multipurpose turf fields, 12 pickleball courts, an outdoor basketball court, concessions/restrooms, gathering areas, a playground, and bike trails connecting to the Willow Creek Trail. Additional features could be added or changed if extra funding becomes available during construction.

“There’s a lot of hard work done here. There’s a lot of people in the community excited about this project. Southeast Rochester needs something to activate that space. That’s a great spot for a facility like this, and I’m happy that we are going forward in that area with this,” Ward 4’s Andy Friederichs said.

Indoor phase funding remains uncertain

Funding for phase two of the project, which would include indoor facilities, has not been secured. After estimates for both indoor and outdoor facilities doubled in cost, approximately $60 million more is needed for the indoor phase.

City staff said they are currently talking with Rochester Community and Technical College to possibly provide the indoor facilities on its campus.

Ward 2’s Nick Miller and Ward 6’s Dan Doering were the two votes cast against the bid proposal. Doering made a motion to table the project and work toward a full project scope for the indoor phase with RCTC, but the motion did not receive a second from the council.

Mayor Kim Norton said if she could vote, she would have seconded Doering’s motion. Norton said she has been disappointed with the overall project outcome.

“We could have waited and prioritized the things the community wanted and expected, which were indoor facilities, rather than sinking $65 million, plus or minus, into an outdoor facility that is only available for use for limited times in good weather,” Norton said.

The city expects a phased opening starting spring of 2027, with full completion in spring of 2028.

After approving the bid proposal, the council also approved a five-year contract with a firm known as ‘Sports Academy’ to operate, manage, and market the facilities for future use.

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