As a community deeply invested in the growth and success of our student-athletes at Paramus Catholic, we find ourselves at an impasse with the Archdiocese of Newark. The decision to prevent our athletes from participating in necessary spring training travel has not only left us bewildered but also concerned about the future of our students’ athletic careers.

Spring training offers a crucial opportunity for student-athletes to enhance their skills, prepare for the upcoming season, and reduce the risk of injury by training in more favorable weather conditions. This annual trip also provides invaluable exposure to college scouts, potentially paving the way for future athletic scholarships and opportunities. Furthermore, the bonding experience during these trips fosters team unity, which is essential for success both on and off the field.

The most disheartening aspect of this situation is that while other schools within the same diocese have been permitted to travel, our requests have been denied. The reason given was that the Archdiocese is reviewing whether the processes for approving athletic travel align with its expectations—without any explanation of what those expectations are. This lack of clarity is both puzzling and unfair to the families who pay tuition and invest deeply in the success of Paramus Catholic student-athletes.

It is crucial to highlight that this trip incurs no cost to the school, and denying our students this opportunity could have long-lasting impacts on their athletic and academic futures. Furthermore, with the financial challenges facing Catholic churches and the potential consolidation of parishes in the future, the focus should be on supporting and nurturing the talents of our students rather than restricting their development.

We urge the Archdiocese of Newark to reconsider this decision and allow Paramus Catholic student-athletes to travel for spring training. By supporting their growth and ambitions, we not only strengthen our community but also uphold the principles of fairness and equal opportunity within our educational system.

Please sign this petition to support our student-athletes’ right to grow, develop, and succeed both athletically and academically. Together, we can make a difference in their futures.