By: Ella Carney
The pandemic has effected a lot of different things this year but as far as the financial situation goes for the sports program, there doesn’t look like there is any need to worry.
Mr. Paolinelli, the Assistant Principal of Student Supervision, facilities and ASB, said that, “This year sports could be affected if spectators are not allowed to support our teams in their competitions. Financially the only sport that makes money due to the large fan base is football. The money made from football helps offset costs in other sports and helps to pay official fees.”
Although there is a possibility of spectators not being allowed to come to games, “the district is financially sound” says Paolinelli, so there is still no reason to think that there is a problem with the district financially in terms of the sports programs.
“High school sports is a necessary and needed part of the high school experience for our student body, athletes, parents and community. It is part of the Americana lifestyle.”
– Mr. Paolinelli
As far as COVID-19 affecting the future of the future of all the sports programs Paolinelli said that “Our sports programs have been placed on hiatus which means students are not working out with their team mates, coaches, and peers. It’s not a positive thing mentally, physically, or emotionally for our students, staff, and community. Sports brings joy, and normality to high school life. My hope is we can resume sports for all students everywhere in the valley by January 2021.”
Mr. Wright, the new Athletic Director at Redwood said that in regards to the corona virus affecting the sports programs “we don’t really know at this point as this is something new that we have never had to deal with. It could mean anywhere from no sports to no fans at events. We just do not know and it would be wrong to speculate at this point as things change day to day.”
Fortunately the boosters clubs and previous fundraisers have provided the Redwood High School Athletic Program great financial stability for the future and they are always one step ahead.
Many local vendors help support Redwood and their own businesses by selling their food or products at sporting events for home games. The Redwood Gigantea was not able to get a hold of these sources but if you would like to share your story please contact us!
Ella Carney
Ella ('22) is in her third year writing for the Redwood Gigantea. She is the managing and scheduling editor, looking over all of the posts that student writers produce. She also has a passion for writing. You can reach Ella by email at ella.ca7786@vusd.us
Tags: finance, redwood sports, sports program
