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Board hears proposal to memorialize girls middle-school wrestling and combine high-school programs; handbook changes to return for approval
Summary
Superintendent presented proposed 2025-26 athletic handbook updates that would formally add girls wrestling at middle school, combine boys and girls high-school wrestling under one head coach with an assistant overseeing the girls program, and create a head assistant coaching slot; the item was discussion-only and will return for final approval.
The Salina Public Schools Board of Education received an informational presentation March 11, 2025 on proposed updates to the 2025-26 athletic handbook, including formal recognition of girls middle-school wrestling and adjustments to coaching structure for high-school wrestling.
Superintendent Eckstein told the board the handbook changes would memorialize the board's February decision to add girls wrestling at the middle-school level and respond to growth in the high-school girls program. The proposal would merge the boys and girls high-school wrestling programs into a combined program with a single head coach and add a head assistant position; one assistant would be assigned responsibility for the girls program so female athletes have a dedicated coach at meets and practices when events conflict.
"High-school girls wrestling has just absolutely expanded," the superintendent said, describing increased participation and the need for additional coaching positions so athletes can be supervised and supported when boys and girls compete at separate venues on the same day. Board members asked whether separating girls and boys into fully distinct programs should be considered in the future; staff said the recommended structure provides flexibility now and that the board could revisit the staffing model if participation grows further.
Board members who attended recent state competitions noted that coaches were busy and that additional adult support could be necessary to ensure equitable coaching time for girls and boys. The superintendent said athletic directors will monitor participation and staffing needs and that, if necessary, the district can add paid coach positions during the year; the superintendent noted an example earlier in the year when an extra coach was approved for South High's track program because of participation levels.
The handbook revisions were placed on the discussion agenda; the superintendent said the item will return next month for final board approval. No formal vote on the handbook changes was taken at the March 11 meeting.
