KATY, Texas – A Katy Little League is now facing a lawsuit and growing concerns from parents and coaches who say they want answers about how the organization is being run — and where its money is going.
Matthew Bell, a parent and coach, has filed a lawsuit in Harris County against Katy American Little League, claiming the organization refused to turn over financial and election records he says he is legally entitled to review.
The lawsuit, filed earlier this month, seeks a court order requiring the league to provide those records and a full accounting of its finances.
The filing cites several discrepancies including 8 out of 10 IRS filings that were filed late and a nearly 80% revenue jump in 2021.
Two weeks after the suit was filed on Tuesday, the league’s board held a hearing to remove Bell from the board.
Some parents say those concerns didn’t start with the lawsuit.
They told KPRC 2 they began asking questions after becoming more involved in the league — but say they were met with resistance.
“There’s a lot of money that comes into the league annually and we just wanted to be able to see where it all goes,” said Philip Beavers, a coach and parent.
Beavers says he and others repeatedly asked for access to financial information.
“We are completely stonewalled from any access to any financial records at all,” said Beavers.
Parents say their concerns grew over time — pointing to what they describe as a lack of transparency and deteriorating field conditions.
“As you get more involved, you start to ask questions,” said Drew Isle, a former coach, who also had a player in the league. “Why are there so many holes in the field?”
Emily Teer, a parent of two former players, said she also began to question how funds were being used.
“It’s like, where is all this money going?” she said.
According to the petition, the plaintiff — a league member — made formal requests for records in November 2025, including financial documents, election records, and meeting minutes.
The lawsuit claims the league did not comply with those requests, despite requirements under Texas law that allow members of nonprofit organizations to inspect certain records.
The plaintiff is now asking a judge to:
- Order the league to turn over the requested documents
- Require a full financial accounting
- Award attorney’s fees
Some parents and coaches also claim those who asked questions were pushed out of the league.
Beavers said he is now facing removal as a member.
“Simply for asking tough questions and demanding accountability,” said Beavers.
Parents say the situation is affecting the experience for kids, which they say should be the focus of youth sports.
“They’re losing teammates, They’re losing great coaches, They’re losing friends,” said Teer.
KPRC 2 reached out to the Katy American Little League.
The league sent us the following statement via email:
“Thank you for reaching out. Katy American Little League has not yet been served with the lawsuit and therefore cannot comment on it. Katy American Little League strictly follows its constitution and denies any allegation that it has acted in violation of its constitution or the law. Any statements from Katy American Little League will be made in the course of this lawsuit.”
Katy American Little League