News Summary

Big changes are on the horizon for high school football in Harwinton and Burlington as new co-op football programs are proposed to address low player participation. Schools like Lewis Mills and Wolcott Tech are looking to merge forces to enhance competitive play, with discussions set for May 12, 2024, by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference. As local officials await the outcome, the hope is that the collaboration will not only strengthen football programs but also foster a vibrant athletic community in the Quiet Corner.

Exciting New Possibilities for High School Football in the Quiet Corner!

Residents of Harwinton and Burlington, listen up! Big news is brewing in the world of high school football! A couple of new co-op football programs are on the table, aimed at tackling the quite serious issue of low player participation. It’s a smart move from the folks at both Lewis Mills and Wolcott Tech, as they aim to merge forces to give their students the best shot at competitive football. These proposals are set to be discussed by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) on May 12, 2024. Mark your calendars!

The Lowdown on the Proposals

So what exactly is being proposed? Lewis Mills and Wolcott Tech want to join up to create a new football co-op. On the flip side, there’s another proposal aiming to merge Plainfield with the existing Quinebaug Valley co-op. By joining forces, both arrangements could really shake things up in the Connecticut Technical Conference (CTC). This is a smart play, especially when you consider that numerous schools are grappling with low rosters—Lewis Mills, for example, has faced challenges that led to some tough decisions about game participation in the last couple of years.

Finding a Solution

The officials in the Quiet Corner have opted to keep quiet for now, waiting to see what the CIAC decides before commenting. This is probably a wise choice, as the future of football in these schools hangs in the balance.

Those in the know, like the athletic directors, have spoken about the need for a co-op arrangement. With declining enrollments and participation numbers, finding a partner school is essential for maintaining vibrant football programs. Lewis Mills Athletic Director Jay Pelcher has highlighted that they need to bolster their rosters to stay competitive and prevent the agony of forfeiting games—something that has marred recent seasons.

Why Wolcott Tech?

Wolcott Tech seems like a natural fit to partner with Lewis Mills due to their close geographical proximity. Located in Torrington, Wolcott Tech is just a stone’s throw away from its Harwinton and Burlington neighbor, making it practical for students and coaches alike. Plus, with around 18 to 20 players returning for the new season, this co-op could breathe new life into their football lineup.

But the situation isn’t just rosy. Wolcott Tech was previously part of a co-op called Northwest United, which has since disbanded. Under that co-op, they enjoyed a respectable record of 35-5, leaving players eager for robust competition opportunities. Wolcott Tech’s Athletic Director Raymond Tanguay has emphasized how important it is for students to have chances to play and grow in the sport they love.

What’s Next?

As the proposals shape up, it’s crucial to mention that both Lewis Mills and Plainfield would act as the host schools in their respective leagues—the Central Connecticut Conference for Lewis Mills and the Eastern Connecticut Conference for Plainfield, making it easier to maintain competitive play.

The proposed changes to the CTC could lead to a fresh wave of excitement and talent as the teams come together to find a competitive edge. Meanwhile, schools that previously collaborated with public institutions are now reassessing their strategies, with Nonnewaug merging back with its partners to form Lakeview High School, while former head coach of Northwest United, Jennifer Garzone, has expressed a wish to stay connected with the coaching community despite not being included in co-op discussions.

The Hope for the Future

As the clock ticks toward the CIAC meeting, students, athletes, and supporters from both schools are eagerly awaiting the decision. The hope is that a successful co-op arrangement between Lewis Mills and Wolcott Tech will not only strengthen football programs but also build a vibrant athletic community in the region. With the spirit of teamwork and cooperation in mind, these proposals might just pave the way for exciting times ahead in high school football!

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