Sonora, CA – The Youth Sports Foundation (YSF) Phonathon held Thursday to raise money to complete construction of Phase 2 at Foundation Sports Park in the Standard area of Tuolumne County was a success, according to organizers.
As of Friday morning (10/16/26), the event raised nearly $54,000. That number jumped to $113,900 with a last-minute community match from Oak Valley Community Bank and another from Tom and Ann Crosby for $30,000 each.
“Pretty amazing, especially considering over half the county was without power yesterday, Julie Smith, YSF Operations & Events Coordinator.
That work included the construction, as earlier reported here, of a 12,000-square-foot indoor multi-sport pavilion, basketball and volleyball courts, park management offices, a community plaza, batting cages, restrooms, storage facilities, ADA-accessible walkways, expanded fencing, a new welcome entrance, and a Curtis Creek Nature Trail. Smith shared, “We’re really excited about the indoor pavilion opening just in time for winter, giving local kids and teams a place to practice and play year-round. We believe that bringing people to the park so they can see the facility, experience the space, and witness its impact firsthand will help build even more excitement and support for Foundation Sports Park. When people see how the park is serving local families, athletes, and teams, they can better understand the difference their contributions make, and that may inspire even more community support as we continue raising funds for future improvements.”
One of those funding events is the annual Mountain Misery Brewfest in Sonora, running until 7 p.m. today at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds. Also, late spring is the annual Athletes of Excellence Dinner, where local athletes are recognized for their achievements in sports, academics, and outstanding character. Individuals can still hit the donation button on myMotherLode.com through Sunday, October 25, 2026.
“This community has been so generous, and we really can’t thank everyone enough,” stated Smith. “Foundation Sports Park wouldn’t be where it is today without the support of our local businesses, families, and individuals. It really is a park built by the community, for the community, and that’s what makes it so special.”
