Kingswood approves Plymouth's addition to girls ice hockey cooperative team structure

The Governor Wentworth Regional School District (GWRSD) School Board has taken a significant step towards expanding opportunities for female athletes by approving the addition of Plymouth Regional High School to the existing girls' ice hockey cooperative team. This decision, made during the board meeting on April 7, 2025, will allow Kingswood Regional High School, Prospect Mountain High School, and Plymouth Regional High School to field a single team for interscholastic competition.

The cooperative agreement aims to enhance participation in girls' ice hockey, a sport that often faces challenges in attracting enough players, particularly in rural areas. The board discussed the financial implications of this collaboration, particularly concerning transportation, officiating fees, and other costs associated with running the team. Concerns were raised about the financial responsibilities falling predominantly on GWRSD, especially under the constraints of a default budget.

Board members emphasized the need for a fair distribution of costs among the participating schools based on the number of student-athletes each contributes to the team. Suggestions included a per-student cost-sharing model to ensure that all schools contribute proportionately to the expenses incurred. This approach aims to alleviate the financial burden on GWRSD while promoting equitable participation among the schools involved.

The board also noted the urgency of finalizing the agreement due to deadlines set by the New Hampshire Interscholastic Athletic Association (NHIAA), which may limit the time available for other districts to approve the arrangement. As discussions continue, the board is committed to reaching out to the athletic directors of the other schools to establish a clear and fair financial framework for the cooperative team.

This initiative not only fosters teamwork and sportsmanship among the schools but also enhances the athletic landscape for young female athletes in the region, paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment in high school sports.