This is not about the City of Manhattan Beach as a whole, but specifically directed toward its Parks and Recreation Department and administration of the Adult League.
I have played in the Manhattan Beach Adult League, operated by the City of Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation Department, for over 12 years without any prior disciplinary history.
In August, a dispute occurred during a game. I immediately submitted a detailed self-report. The official report, my report, and another participant's report were consistent in their descriptions. I accepted the initial suspension issued at that time and expected the matter to be resolved.
Months later, I was placed on an indefinite suspension without formal written notice identifying the specific rule violated, the length of suspension, or the criteria required for reinstatement.
When I requested clarification, I received three different explanations for the indefinite suspension from League Commissioner Jeff Conover, Parks & Recreation Manager Mark Leyman, and Risk Management Manager Briza Morales. The explanations were inconsistent with one another. To date, no single clear or documented basis for the indefinite suspension has been provided.
Despite repeated written requests, I have not been given documented investigative findings, a formal policy citation, or an opportunity to review or respond to conclusions. My team managers were not notified or included in any review process.
During the game in question, I did not initiate physical contact and did not lay hands on anyone. I responded verbally after repeated verbal insults and aggressive play in front of the official. There was no physical misconduct on my part.
It is also concerning that other reported incidents within the league involving physical altercations have resulted in lesser discipline. From my perspective, enforcement standards do not appear to be applied consistently. Male participants may be disciplined more severely than female participants in comparable circumstances. If policies differ, they should be clearly written and applied uniformly to all players.
After more than a decade of participation, I am asking the City of Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation Department for transparency, documented reasoning, and consistent application of league policies. Indefinite discipline without clear written standards, consistent explanations, or an opportunity to be heard raises serious concerns about fairness and due process.
I remain willing to resolve this matter professionally and constructively. read more