As a result of Springfield Health and Human Services and Springfield Public Schools’ decision to postpone the winter sports season, our student-athletes have to endure their fourth interrupted season since 2020. For those who want to continue competing in college, opportunities for recruitment have been limited, if not eliminated. For the larger portion of our student-athletes who compete because they enjoy the physical, mental, and social benefits, this decision will still have adverse effects. Studies have shown that sports participation drives higher academic performance than that of the general student population. In addition, the U.S. Surgeon General recently issued an advisory on the intensifying youth mental health crisis. Springfield, MA is a strong city that unfortunately faces challenges when it comes to poverty and crime. For some of our student-athletes, sports teams are the only place where they feel part of a family. Our student-athletes compete because sports contribute positively to their lives. During a pandemic, these opportunities are especially important.

It’s not as if Springfield’s winter sports had no regulations to prevent the spread of COVID: quite the contrary. All student-athletes are subject to mandatory COVID testing each week. In addition, masks are mandatory, social distancing is enforced, and a ban on spectators was implemented. Thus, the student-athlete population is more closely monitored than just about any other portion of Springfield’s population. At a time when social life in Springfield continues unimpeded, our student-athletes should not be punished. When reflecting on our experiences competing for Springfield Public Schools, we can say that sports teams provide necessary support structures for positive growth. If you believe winter sports should be resumed to support Springfield student-athletes, hold the decision-makers accountable by signing on to this petition. Thank you. 

Sincerely,

Coach Mike DeAngelo: High School of Science & Technology Swimming

Coach Josh Rice: Central High Swimming

Coaches Darby McLaughlin, Mike Rafferty, Jeremiah Rosa: Central High Wrestling

Coach Larry Libow: High School of Commerce Track & Field