As parents of student athletes and students at Lincoln High School in Portland, Oregon, we were deeply concerned to discover, only during the tryouts week and through informal channels, that the number of boys soccer teams was being reduced to three from the traditional four. This decision was made without the involvement of all stakeholders, including students and families, who have always been an integral part of our school community.

For years, Lincoln High School has successfully fielded four teams—Varsity, JV, JV2, and another JV2—providing opportunities for a wide range of students to participate in soccer at different skill levels. These teams not only foster athletic skills but also promote teamwork, discipline, and school spirit and community. With the reduction to three teams, a significant number of aspiring soccer players may now find themselves without a team to play for, which diminishes inclusivity and limits opportunities for our youth.

Soccer is more than just a sport; it is a vital part of our students' educational experience. It teaches them the value of hard work, cooperation, and perseverance. By eliminating a team, we not only lessen these opportunities but also possibly impact students' morale and mental health. Moreover, smaller programs make it harder for scouts to identify talent, which can affect student athletes’ opportunities including pursuing collegiate sports scholarships.

Reinstating the four soccer teams will continue the legacy of inclusivity at our school, ensuring that athletic opportunities remain accessible to all students who wish to participate. This decision will honor our commitment to student engagement and personal development. Also, four teams will ensure a well rounded and competitive players providing greater depth and flexibility  that strengthens the entire soccer program at Lincoln High School

We strongly urge the school administration, athletic department, and school board to reconsider this decision and engage openly with all stakeholders. Let's prioritize our youth's opportunities to engage in sports they love. Please sign this petition to support the reinstatement of four boys soccer teams at Lincoln High School.