Gridley High School Cuts Tennis Programs Amid Community Outcry

News Summary

Gridley High School has decided to discontinue its boys’ and girls’ tennis programs due to low student participation and high maintenance costs. The decision, which followed a contentious board meeting, has sparked significant backlash from community members who emphasize the importance of tennis for student development. Proposals to support the program, including volunteer coaching and fundraising efforts, are being explored as residents continue to demand equitable sports opportunities for all students.

Gridley High School Moves to Cut Tennis Programs Amid Concerns

In the bustling town of Gridley, local residents were taken aback by the recent decision made by the Gridley High School Board to discontinue the girls’ and boys’ tennis programs for the upcoming school year. After an emotionally charged meeting held on June 26, where numerous community members voiced their opinions, the board ultimately opted to prioritize other sports over tennis.

The Reasons Behind the Decision

The board’s choice didn’t come out of the blue, as concerns regarding low student participation in the tennis programs had been mounting for years. With fewer than 20 students on the roster for the past four years, the interest simply wasn’t where it needed to be. On top of that, the cost of maintaining the courts had become a significant factor, with estimated repairs ranging from $38,000 to $55,000. The situation was compounded by challenges in finding consistent coaching staff, as the Athletic Director revealed that there had been two coaching hires just a month before the last school year started.

The Community’s Response