**Petition to Address the Exploitation of Players in the Mavericks Independent Baseball League**

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing this petition to bring attention to a matter of great importance regarding the Mavericks Independent Baseball League. As a dedicated supporter and regular attendee of the games at Volcanoes Stadium, I have observed firsthand the passion and dedication of the players who make this league what it is. I, Jordan, am a player and assistant coach for the Portland Mavericks, and for the past 3 years, our family has been deeply invested in this community. However, it is with a heavy heart that I must address the unfair treatment and exploitation of these players.

**1. Unpaid Players:**

The players in this league are not compensated for their efforts. They play 96 games a season, yet receive no financial remuneration. Despite their commitment, they are expected to perform without any form of payment, while umpires and coaches receive compensation. This disparity is unjust and devalues the players' contributions.

**2. Lack of Food Provision:**

Players are not provided with food before or after games. Furthermore, there is a strict rule prohibiting outside food or drinks for anyone entering the ballpark, including the players themselves. This policy places an undue burden on the players, who must fend for themselves without adequate nourishment.

**3. Absence of Official Baseball Reference:**

The league does not provide an official baseball reference for the players. This means that the players' stats for the season are not recorded in the official database, which is crucial for scouts and coaches who might consider them for future opportunities. This omission severely hampers the players' chances of advancing their careers.

**Additional Concerns:**

- Some players are forced to live in a retirement home in Turner as their housing option, which is far from ideal.

- Players are required to pay a uniform fee at the start of the season.

- There is no player union to support and address the players' concerns or needs.

The current management, led by the Walkers and Jerry Howard, appears to be prioritizing financial gain over the welfare of the players. The community in Keizer, known for its strong sense of support, is underrepresented in terms of business sponsorships due to strained relationships caused by the league's management.

Despite these challenges, the players continue to give their all for the love of the game and the fans who support them. They deserve better treatment, respect, and opportunities. This league has the potential to be a beacon of community spirit and a launchpad for players' careers, but significant changes are necessary to achieve this.

We, the undersigned, urge the Mavericks Independent Baseball League to:

1. Implement fair compensation for all players.

2. Provide adequate food and nourishment for players before and after games.

3. Ensure that players' stats are recorded in an official baseball reference database.

4. Improve living conditions and eliminate unnecessary fees imposed on players.

5. Establish a player union to address and support players' needs and concerns.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Jordan Drake

(971)323-8214