We ask Bishop O’Dowd to reconsider the rule that only students from the two schools playing can attend football games. This rule means our friends, younger siblings, cousins, and other supporters cannot come watch us play if they attend a different school, even if they have a ticket.

We understand that an incident at a game earlier this season raised safety concerns. Everyone deserves to feel safe at our games, and we support having rules and consequences for people who cause problems. But we do not think one incident should keep all students from other schools out of future games.

What is the point of a home game if there isn’t “Home Field Advantage”? Our classmates can attend, but many of the people who support us most go to other schools. Hearing them cheer from the stands gives players energy and makes playing at home feel different from playing away. Limiting who can come takes away part of that home field advantage. And it’s not like the school doesn’t have the resources or funds to make this work.

We ask the school to consider letting students from other schools attend with valid tickets and clear expectations for behavior. Ticket checks, enough security and staff, and consequences for anyone who breaks the rules can help keep games safe. We also ask school leadership to meet with students and players to discuss a plan before the next home game.