For years, the phrase “The City should…” has echoed through conversations among families advocating for stronger support of youth sports in Patterson. Today, that conversation turns into action.

 

The City of Patterson and Patterson Little League (PLL) have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) as of January 2026, renewing and strengthening a long-standing partnership focused on providing safe, accessible, and high-quality baseball and softball programs for the children and families of our community.

 

                              Investing in Access, Affordability, and Stability

 

As part of the agreement, the City of Patterson will provide a $10,000 scholarship to Patterson Little League. This funding will be applied directly to subsidizing the cost of Sports Park field rentals, one of the league’s largest and most challenging operational expenses.

 

Across surrounding communities, youth sports registration fees have steadily increased, with average costs now nearing $250 per player—a figure that more accurately reflects the true cost of operating a quality program, including field rentals, maintenance, equipment, uniforms, insurance, and safety requirements. Unfortunately, these rising costs have placed organized youth sports out of reach for many families.

 

Patterson Little League continues to be among the most cost-effective programs in Northern California, with registration fees typically ranging from $100–$150 per player. This partnership allows the league to absorb rising operational costs locally, helping ensure Patterson families are not disproportionately impacted and that participation remains affordable for all.

At the heart of this agreement is program stability—ensuring that Patterson’s youth sports programs remain strong, sustainable, and accessible for years to come.

 

                                                        Returning to Our Roots

Patterson Little League was originally launched as a City-funded program, making this MOU a return to its foundational partnership. The renewed agreement reflects a shared vision between the City and PLL: investing in youth through positive, structured, and community-centered athletic opportunities.

                                                       Serving Patterson’s Children

Patterson Little League serves children ages 3 to 15 in both baseball and softball and operates as a 100% volunteer-run organization. Each season, the league supports an average of 230–300 Patterson children, powered by volunteer coaches, board members, umpires, and families. Beyond wins and losses, PLL plays a vital role in youth development—teaching teamwork, leadership, discipline, confidence, and sportsmanship, while fostering friendships and community pride that extend well beyond the season.

 

                                                        Ensuring Equity and Access

With youth sports costs rising regionally, the City’s scholarship support is especially impactful. By directly reducing facility rental expenses, this agreement helps ensure that:

• Registration fees remain as low as possible

• Financial barriers do not prevent participation

• No child is turned away due to cost

Patterson Little League remains committed to accessibility while maintaining a safe, well-run, and high-quality program for every participant.

 

                                               Leadership and Citywide Collaboration

The effort to realign the City and Patterson Little League began last year under the leadership of Mayor Mike Clauzel, whose advocacy for youth programs and community partnerships helped move the agreement from concept to completion.

 

City Manager Fernando Ulloa and Assistant City Manager Mike Willit played key roles in navigating the operational details of the MOU, ensuring the agreement is practical, transparent, and sustainable.

 

The City’s Public Works Department has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safe, reliable, and well-kept playing fields throughout the season, while the Patterson Recreation and Community Services Department will continue close collaboration with the league on scheduling and coordination.

 

This collective effort was further supported by Councilmembers Kendra Mora and Gaby Hernandez, whose engagement and alignment helped bring the agreement to fruition.

 

“Our city’s youth programs don’t just happen—they’re built through decades of commitment,” said Councilmember Kendra Mora. “Programs like Little League have long served our community, and by supporting their stability, we ensure future generations have the same opportunities to learn, play, and succeed.”

 

Council member Gaby Hernandez added, “Supporting Little League aligns with my commitment to investing in safe, healthy spaces where our youth can learn teamwork, discipline, and community pride. When we support our kids early, we strengthen the future of our city.”

 

“This partnership reflects our commitment to investing in our youth and strengthening programs that bring families together,” said Mayor Mike Clauzel.

 

“Patterson Little League has always been about more than baseball—it’s about community and giving our kids opportunities,” said Kat Ritchie, PLL Treasurer. “We collect about $29,000 in registration fees, but it costs approximately $60,000 to run the league. We work to get sponsors to support our teams and fundraise all season to bridge that gap, sometimes successful, many times not. Two out of the last three years we functioned in the red. This scholarship directly helps offset field rental costs so we can keep registration affordable and accessible while providing some stability to the program. Our sponsors are the key to keeping the league healthy from one season to the next and am thankful the City has joined that list. ”

 

                                                            Looking Ahead

This MOU establishes a strong foundation for long-term collaboration between the City of Patterson and Patterson Little League. With shared goals, aligned values, and coordinated leadership across City Council, Public Works, and Recreation, the future of youth baseball and softball in Patterson is stronger than ever.

 

This agreement represents more than funding—it is a direct investment in program stability, affordability, and access, and in the children and families who represent the future of Patterson.