Strong feeder systems lay the foundation for successful varsity scholastic athletic programs, not unlike the way that strong youth programs lay the foundation for successful recreation departments.

Manheim Township will conduct a youth field hockey league on the turf fields of the Manheim Township Athletic Complex, 2883 Weaver Road, Lancaster, on Sundays this fall. One of a number of youth programs sponsored by the municipality, the Manheim Township Youth Field Hockey League will run from 3 to 5:30 p.m. from Aug. 27 to Oct. 29.

Registration is open to female residents and nonresidents of Manheim Township who will be in first through sixth grades this school year. Athletes can register by calling 717-290-7180, ext. 3100, or by going to https://bit.ly/MTFieldHockey.

"The purpose is to introduce the sport to the community," said Manheim Township recreation director Matt Stopa. "There is a very affordable rate associated with the league. It's meant to get kids' foot in the door. Hopefully, they'll follow up with the sport all the way up to high school."

Last year, 130 girls signed up for the Manheim Township Youth Field Hockey League, and organizers hope for a similar turnout this year. This fall, the girls will be separated into three divisions by age. The sessions will include practice, instruction and demonstrations on the rules and fundamentals of field hockey, as well as the playing of games.

Manheim Township High School varsity field hockey coach Jessica Shellenberger helps oversee the league, a presence that promotes familiarity and encourages consistency throughout the levels of field hockey being played in the community.

Manheim Township first made the youth field hockey program available in 2019.

"It's not affiliated with the school district, but Jessica gives advice on how to teach girls at this level," said Stopa.

Manheim Township oversees youth programs in swimming and basketball, as well as field hockey. But local organizations and teams also utilize township facilities to compete in the sports of baseball, softball, soccer and football.

"It doesn't matter what sport it is; they're all important," said Stopa. "Kids need to learn to work as a team growing up. They need to learn respect. At a young age, being in a team environment helps you grow up as a person. We care about kids."

In a related matter, Manheim Township recently hired Brandon Pentz as its new youth program manager. A graduate of East Stroudsburg University, Pentz came to Manheim Township from Muhlenberg Township.

Pentz's duties include overseeing summer camps, overseeing youth recreational activities, mentoring and overseeing staff members and helping with special events.

"He's very personable," said Stopa. "He brings critical thinking and problem-solving skills to the table. He's very thorough in his work. He's able to take apart these programs, dissect them and think about them in different ways."

"We're all public servants," concluded Stopa. "We want to give our taxpayers the best services we possibly can. We want to reach as many people as we can with our programs."