On behalf of the founding organizing members of the Cincinnati Youth Sports Commission (CYSC), we extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who participated in planning and development discussions throughout 2026. These conversations laid the foundation for a collaborative initiative bringing together youth sports organizations, community leaders, and public agencies to strengthen youth athletics throughout Cincinnati.

 

From April through August 2026, stakeholders met on the last Wednesday of each month to discuss the establishment of the Cincinnati Youth Sports Commission. These meetings focused on strengthening youth athletics, improving safety and accountability, expanding access to facilities, and developing partnerships among youth organizations, the City of Cincinnati, CPS, and CRC.

In September 2026, the core founding members met to advance the Commission’s organizational structure, proposed bylaws, leadership positions, membership requirements, and governance procedures.

Having completed these initial planning phases, we are requesting a final stakeholder meeting to formalize partnerships, confirm responsibilities, and establish a date for an official press release announcing the Cincinnati Youth Sports Commission.

 

Request for Final Stakeholder Meeting

We respectfully request a meeting with representatives of the City of Cincinnati, Cincinnati Public Schools, Cincinnati Recreation Commission, and participating community stakeholders to:

Review and finalize the proposed Commission structure and bylaws.

Confirm stakeholder participation, representation, and responsibilities.

Establish agreements regarding facilities, youth safety, organizational accountability, and league operations.

Identify resources and support necessary for implementation.

Set a date for a joint press release and subsequent citywide kickoff event.

Moving Forward Together

Our founding organizations bring extensive experience in youth athletics, community leadership, and youth development. We share a commitment to creating a coordinated system offering young people organized sports, mentorship, educational support, leadership development, and future opportunities.

We respectfully request that stakeholders identify their availability for a meeting within the next two weeks so that we may establish a clear timeline for implementation and a public announcement. 

 

Thank you for your continued commitment to Cincinnati’s youth and families.

 

 

Marye Ward — Executive Director & Co-Founder, Cincinnati United Youth Football & Cheer League

Milan Lanier — CEO & Co-Founder, Cincinnati United Youth Football & Cheer League

Dante Payne — CUYFCL Commissioner; On Impact Recruiting Services

Nick Johnson — CEO, West End Lil’ Senators; CUYFCL Board Member

 

Cincinnati Youth Sports Commission – Founding Organizing Members