Town Urges Nassau School District To 'Let Them Play'

Press release from the town of Oyster Bay: Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined with members of the Town Board and local elected officials, as well as dozens of supportive parents, sports officials and student athletes in calling for county high school sports officials to allow them to play this fall season. Earlier this week, Section VIII of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association voted to postpone high school sports in Nassau until 2021, while officials in Suffolk voted to move forward with their fall seasons.

“This new school year will already be filled with many new variables for our students, and the inconsistency of these decisions only add to the already mounting frustration of parents and students alike as we embark on a new school year,” said Supervisor Saladino. “As students reenter their classrooms with celebration, they and their parents continue to search for a greater sense of normalcy in these uncertain times. Participating in sports activities brings that sense of normalcy to so many of our young student athletes.”

Supervisor Saladino added that many children have been playing these sports throughout their entire school careers, and that many high school athletes could potentially have their academic futures impacted if they are not permitted to participate in fall sports. He further stated that many sports organizations have safely returned to the field and that school sports officials could certainly put forward safety protocols to protect young players.

“Sports has proven to be an essential component in the educational process, and in building leaders of tomorrow. It helps our youngsters learn concepts of sportsmanship and teamwork. These are lessons they take with them throughout the rest of their lives,” the Supervisor said.

With much precedence available, officials pointed out that many sports activities have been permitted to resume, and have done so safely and efficiently.

Councilwoman Michele Johnson added, “As a parent, I can speak firsthand about the value of scholastic athletics. I can also speak firsthand about the tremendous job the school districts have undertaken since this pandemic began. We commend them for how they’ve successfully navigated these unchartered waters and offered students meaningful education and support under the most challenging of circumstances. We are confident they can get our players back on the field while protecting their health, safety and welfare.

Councilwoman Laura Maier added, “These have obviously been unprecedented times, particularly for parents as they’ve balanced the educational and psychological needs of their children. Many of these children turn to athletics to help maintain that balance. The lessons learned on the field of determination, perseverance and the drive required to achieve success are all important components of future success.”

This press release was produced by the town of Oyster Bay. The views expressed here are the author's own.