EDITOR,

As a former professional, a San Jose Earthquake soccer player and a local business owner, I support the proposed development agreements under negotiations with the city of Tracy.

The AKT Development/Souza Realty agreement will provide the opportunity to develop housing in Tracy Hills beginning in 2013 and is within the limits of Measure A. Moreover, along with the agreements, $20 million will be donated to the city to build a much-needed youth multisports facility.

Many citizens, sporting leagues, coaches, softball, football, soccer and baseball players have rallied behind this and are working hard to bring a message to Tracy that this is an opportunity that we must not let pass. As a professional athlete, I grew up exposed to the positive elements of sports and team-building. I was lucky enough to have access to my “classroom” of learning — a soccer field.

In sports, the athlete’s classroom is on the field, in both practice and competition. Tracy kids and young adults don’t have that classroom to enjoy and learn their sport to the fullest potential. Sadly, it is impacting more than one sport; there’s a lack of facilities, fields and appropriate competitive fields for all of our local sports and leagues.

There is no question that we must rally together for our children. This future holds an opportunity that Tracy could grow good, strong, healthy and sport-minded children. Who knows, maybe Tracy will grow a number of professional athletes to accomplish their dream, as in my case. That is priceless. Let’s rally to make sure the city of Tracy completes these negotiations as soon as possible so we can see construction begin for the proposed Schulte Road youth multisports complex.

Troy Dayak, Tracy