Public commenters urge change to interscholastic policy; policy subcommittee not meeting tonight

During the public comment period, two residents urged the Leominster School Committee to adopt a formal change to the district’s interscholastic athletics policy that would allow coaches — and athletes — to forfeit a contest without disciplinary consequence when safety or fairness concerns arise.

Bob Greska of Crestfield Lane said he was “here because of the policy” and urged the committee to “put that into the policy, especially if we have new coaches that come on board at some point.” He cited safety and the responsibility of adults to protect students: “I just encourage you really to do your job. Take the accountability on yourselves instead of putting it on the kids to make that decision. Make the decision for them.”

Another commenter, identified as Patrick of Central Street, offered a case study he said illustrated differences in physical performance across sexes: he described a 2016 practice contest in which Australia’s Matildas (the national women’s team) reportedly played a U‑15 boys team and lost 7–0; he said the example underscored differences in speed and strength and framed his remarks as a fairness concern.

Committee Chair Sal (identified earlier in the meeting) reminded the audience that the policy subcommittee had not yet met and that the committee would not vote on policies at this meeting. The transcript shows public comment and committee acknowledgment only; no formal policy motion or vote occurred.

Why it matters: The speakers asked the committee to enshrine in district policy a practice they said already occurs informally — coaches forfeiting competitions when safety or fairness concerns exist — so that future coaches and student‑athletes will have clear direction. The school committee did not take formal action; the matter remains with the policy subcommittee for review.