DELTA COUNTY -- Kids in the Escanaba school district have to put their friendships on hold when Little League season rolls around. That's because some of the players have to play for Gladstone’s Little League.
Escanaba Little League Board President, Robert Lehoullier, Jr., explained one especially difficult decision.
Last July, parents and officials of the Escanaba Little League decided to boycott the July All-Stars game. Lehoullier said it was certainly difficult for the kids, but he's sure they understood.
Escanaba continues to ask for the original areas back.
“Gladstone has to sit down with us,” explains Escanaba Little League Board member, Todd Milkiewicz. “They have to be willing to change the boundaries. Right now they don't want to change the boundaries. I’ve been told it's about money. They’ll lose from not having those kids."
The dispute has even caused some parents and kids to not play in Little League at all.
So what does Escanaba think about this?
“We're willing to waiver anybody," Milkiewicz said. "If they want to play in the Gladstone Little League because they have friends there and that's where they want to play, that's fine. Kids should play where they want to. It’s about the kids first."
Gladstone Little League Board member, Steve O’Driscoll, said he'd like to see the two leagues combined, or maybe even draw up another agreement that both sides can agree on.
“Well, I think being close-minded is exactly where you don't want to be," said O'Driscoll. "So there's always room to discuss anything."
Escanaba officials say they'll continue to petition for boundary changes, but they don't plan on any boycotts this season.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWLUC