AYSO gets laser-aimed, radio-controlled lights

American Youth Soccer Organization players flipped the switch on $150,000 worth of lighting at Lincoln Athletic Center in Corona del Mar last week.

The AYSO region 57 board donated the lighting funds to help fix an increasing competition for field space from lacrosse and soccer leagues.

Region 57 offered to donate the money to light the field in April, but had to gain approval from neighbors, officials at the state and city level, and also work in coordination with Lincoln Elementary School and the Newport-Mesa Unified School District.

The lighting at Lincoln uses 40% less energy than traditional lighting and is laser-aimed for less light spill into the neighborhood. The lights are radio-controlled, which allows the city to regulate usage remotely.

Region 57, one of three regions serving the Newport-Mesa area, reported about 4,500 kids playing in 2006-07, according to Wright.

— Brianna Bailey