The current HVAC system at the Saratoga High Gym has been there for over 60 years. It is slow to heat up, susceptible to breakdowns and malfunctions, and ineffective at maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for athletes using it. In the summer, teams play with two (2) fans across two gyms to fend off the heat. In the winter, we practice and play in the freezing cold. One year ago, the boiler broke down for several weeks in the dead of winter. To make matters worse, broken windows haven’t been fixed in decades. They are sealed shut ensuring hotter temperatures in the summer. Athletes, coaches, teachers, referees, and visiting school officials have all commented on the extreme temperatures and the risk of injury and sickness it places on students. Saratoga’s gym is known in the league as the “icebox.”

But while we discuss the specifics and details of a new HVAC system, our players continue to practice in the heat of the summer. Unless the problem is solved, we will continue to practice and play well into the frigid winter months. In addition to a new HVAC system, temporary solutions must be put in place to address the problem as soon as possible. Replacing a switch and installing a few fans is not a viable solution.

It is blatantly unsafe for athletes to play in such extreme temperatures. Last season, there was an inordinate number of injuries and illnesses in the winter season among wrestlers, basketball players, and dance athletes. These conditions leave the district at risk of violating OSHA laws. Los Gatos High, our sister school, has an HVAC system that was replaced less than 15 years ago. This project and others like it (replacing windows, upgrading locker rooms, etc.) have long been shelved and delayed because of funding restraints. We understand that it is a significant project and requires funding. However, when it comes to student safety, the district must find a way.

Next meeting with the District is Monday 6/26 at 8:30am in the SHS Office.  District will present outcomes from having HVAC vendors assess the system and provide more specific quotes.

Next Board meeting is Tuesday 6/27 at 4:30pm in the Los Gatos District Office.

Please try to show up to as many events as possible, especially student-athletes and parents, so that we can emphasize that this is a priority for our community.

For more info, the Saratoga Falcon article on the subject: Coaches and players advocate for gym renovations – Saratoga Falcon