by Michael J. Marino
The Huntley Project School Board narrowly approved a new policy which allows 8th grade students to be considered for high school level sports positions at their September 19 meeting.
Activities Director (AD) Tim Kazmareck presented modifications that he and other staff made to the policy since last time the board considered it.
“It has to start with the head coach,” Kazmareck stated, “that way, we’re not giving false hope to parents or students.” He also wanted to clarify that this policy does not mean it will be “open season” for any and all 8th graders to try and move up. Rather, it is meant to allow the coaches to provide that opportunity for qualified students, “If the coach needs the numbers and the student is ready for the transition,” said Kazmareck. Furthermore, Kazmareck provided copies of an informational flyer which stated, “advancement of an 8th grade student to a high school team should be the exception, and not viewed as the general order of building a program.”
Head Coach Iona Stookey said she is against the policy. “I’ve been doing this for 33 years,” she stated, adding that she feels eighth-grade students “are not mentally prepared for high school sports.”
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