CITY OF COMMERCE AGENDA REPORT
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: City Manager
SUBJECT: Guidelines for Competitive Sports Eligibility Expansion MEETING DATE: November 25, 2025
RECOMMENDATION
The City Council will consider approving the proposed guidelines and fee structure for the implementation of the City of Commerce Competitive Travel Sports Program.
BACKGROUND
On October 28, 2025, the City Council approved the expansion of eligibility for all City of Commerce competitive sports programs. This action allows non-resident athletes to participate when roster spots remain unfilled by resident athletes.
PROPOSED GUIDELINES
Seasonal Recruitment
Each sport will establish recruitment and registration/tryout periods according to its respective season schedule.
Resident Recruitment Priority
Resident recruitment will occur first. Outreach will include flyer distribution, social media promotion, citywide notices, and coordination with local schools and coaches to maximize awareness and participation.
Resident Registration and Tryouts
Registration and Tryouts will be conducted in a manner that gives residents the first opportunity to register or tryout.
Roster Finalization
Upon completion of resident registration/tryout, staff will finalize and record the official team roster. 4a. Playing Up Tradition
In keeping with long-standing Commerce tradition, a registered athlete may be allowed to “play up” in an older age division (e.g., a 14U athlete participating on a 16U team) when the need arises. Such movement will be based on program needs, staff assessment, and the athlete’s readiness to compete at the higher level.
Resident Waiting List
A resident waiting list will be maintained for each team. If additional recruitment opportunities arise during the season, residents on the list will be contacted and notified of additional opportunities to register/tryout.
Non-Resident Recruitment (If needed)
If roster spots remain unfilled after resident recruitment and no additional residents are on the waiting list non-resident/tryouts will open to complete the roster.
Seasonal Participation Limitation
Non-resident participation is approved on a season-by-season basis only. Non-resident athletes are not grandfathered into future travel sports seasons and must reapply for participation as space allows.
PROGRAM FEES
The table below provides examples of the current fee structure used across several City programs. It reflects the standard difference between resident and non-resident participation fees, highlighting the existing practice of non-residents paying approximately double the resident rate.
Program
Resident Fee
Non-Resident Fee
Notes
Preschool
$50.00
$100.00
Recreation Sports
$12.00
$40.00
Includes shirt, awards banquet.
HIIT (Seasonal)
Free
$24.00
Ballet Folklorico
$24.00
$48.00
Travel Sports (Recommended)
$99.00
$200.00
All athlete equipment and travel-related costs.
FISCAL IMPACT
Slight revenue increase is anticipated from non-resident registration fees, which will help offset operational costs related to staffing, equipment, and facility use.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve staff recommendation
2. Disapprove staff recommendation
3. Provide further direction to staff
Respectfully submitted: Ernie Hernandez, City Manager
Recommended by: Adolfo Marquez, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation Fiscal Impact reviewed by: Alvaro Castellon, Finance Director Approved as to form by: Noel Tapia, City Attorney