CMYFCC’s Decision: A Harmful and Unjust Change

CMYFCC has made a baffling decision to transition to an age-based system at all levels across the league. Instead of implementing this gradually at the lower levels, they have chosen an abrupt, all-encompassing approach that has negatively impacted children and taken away a year of eligibility.

Players who have been with their teams since flag football are now being forcibly separated, disrupting not only their experience but also the bonds they’ve built with teammates over the years. This decision doesn’t just affect individual players—it affects entire teams, creating unnecessary loss and disappointment.

In a league designed for children, how does this make any sense—especially with no exceptions or waivers for those losing eligibility? The answer is simple: it doesn’t.

Unfortunately, reckless decisions like this are not new. Just last season, Leominster was allowed to switch divisions mid-season—a move that benefited an organization rather than the kids playing in the league. Many may not have been aware of that, but now you are. Once again, deference is given to organizations and adults, while children—the very heart of this league—are overlooked.

This raises an important question: who is this decision really serving? Because it is certainly not the kids, who should be the priority.

This change lacks logic, fairness, and consideration. While “reckless” is one way to describe it, “negligent” is a far more accurate term. AYF and CMYFCC are meant to provide a safe, supportive environment for children to grow and develop. Yet, this decision contradicts that mission and undermines the very foundation of the league’s charter: “It’s 4 the kids.”

Clearly, it is not.

Please sign this petition if you agree no kids should be left behind and have their youth experiences damaged and The age based program should be gradually implemented from 4th grade up staring in 2025. This would eliminate children being affected adversely and also allow some to remain eligible for their seasons and get the full experience they signed up for when they began their youth sports journey