Canfield coach urges clarity after state change allowing out-of-district hockey players

Josh Cangellio, a Canfield High School varsity hockey coach, told the Canfield Local School District Board of Education during public comments on Aug. 13 that a recent state budget committee change allowing out-of-district players in school hockey programs raises questions for the district and its boosters.

"We are not looking to dilute the program, or replace our kids with outside players," Cangellio said. He asked the district to limit any out-of-district roster additions by invitation, keep Canfield students the priority, and hold outside players to the same attendance and conduct standards used for Canfield students.

Cangellio said the move in the state budget committee "specifically included hockey" and that the change was intended to avoid losing small programs. He said Canfield's roster has been as small as 15 to 17 players in recent years and described allowing some out-of-district players as a "do-or-die" action to preserve the team. He also said any additional program costs should be covered by the booster program.

Superintendent Noll thanked Cangellio and said there would be no immediate decision. Noll said the athletic director, Bob Beam, would provide input and that the district would follow up after the administration and boosters review options.

No board action was taken during the meeting; the comment was recorded during the public-comment period and the board indicated it would seek further information from its athletic staff prior to making any policy changes.