We hope this message finds you and your family safe and in good spirits despite the recent impacts to our community and world around us from the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the spirit of our name, PONY (Protect Our Nations Youth), we have decided to officially cancel the 2020 Spring Baseball and Softball Season. In our 49 year history, this will be the first season we have not provided services to the community. With the declaration of the "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order by our State Governor, Jay Inslee, which banned all gatherings and temporarily shut-down non-essential businesses through May 31, we don't see any viable option whereby we can have a spring season.
We understand that these are uncertain times, and several of the families within our community are experiencing both financial and personal strain due to the current situation. The Maple Valley Board, in partnership with our sponsors from this year, have agreed to the following: Sponsors will allow us to keep their sponsorship funds so Maple Valley PONY can honor requests for a 100% refund of the fees paid for the 2020 Spring Season.
Requests for a refund must be submitted by emailing [email protected] with your players first and last name. All requests must be sent by May 17, 2020. Families can also choose to donate their 2020 Spring Season fees paid to help support the league and no action is required if you'd like to choose this option.
While the generosity of our Sponsors won't cover our expenses for this year, we feel that this is the right approach to ensure our families in need are supported during this time. Our ask is that you show your appreciation to our great sponsors in three ways:
- Use their services (when possible) and mention you are part of Maple Valley PONY
- Post about them and their generosity to support the league despite the cancelled season
- Tell your friends
Please note this decision was not made lightly, but weighed on the hearts and minds of your Maple Valley PONY board. The safety and well-being of our players, their families, and the community is of utmost priority to us. We will continue to review our plans for the Fall Season, so stay tuned for future updates. Our MVP teams are managed differently from the core league, and will receive direction from their coach through the communication from the Tournament Team Director.
Thanks again for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you in the Fall.
Best Wishes to you and your families!
Sincerely,
Andrea Gott
President, MVPBA Board