My daughter has been playing hockey since she was four years old. She was always assured that there would be a team for her to play on until she reached high school. However, the recent decision by the New Brunswick Interscholastic Athletic Association (NBIAA) is threatening this assurance. The NBIAA has decided to prevent students from participating in sports teams at AAA schools if they are not enrolled at these institutions.

This decision particularly affects female sports teams like high school hockey, where schools may no longer be able to offer teams due to lack of numbers. This leaves fewer recreational opportunities as some girls may choose to participate in more competitive leagues or those who may drop out of the sport altogether.

The impact of this ruling extends beyond just my daughter and our family; it affects all young female athletes across New Brunswick who rely on these opportunities for physical activity, camaraderie, and personal growth.

We believe that every student should have equal access to participate in sports regardless of their school's classification. We urge the NBIAA to reconsider its decision and allow female students the opportunity to participate in AAA school sports teams at schools that require extra players to make a team.

Please join us in challenging this unfair policy and advocating for equal sporting opportunities for all students across New Brunswick. Sign our petition today!