New wrestling coach and FFA participants urge better facilities, safer mats and updated barns

Rosamond — During public comment at the Southern Kern Unified School District board meeting, Thomas New, the district’s new wrestling head coach, described equipment and facility shortfalls and asked the board for help securing a safer practice space.

"Our mats are almost 10 years old," New said, describing how students have to move heavy mats between sites and sometimes practice in elementary‑school cafeterias. He asked whether the district has plans to provide a dedicated wrestling room (about 50 by 50 feet) or at least dedicated gym time and urged the athletic director and administration to consider safety and scheduling.

Trustees and staff advised New to start with the athletic director and provide cost estimates for new mats and facility modifications. The board also took public questions about Future Farmers of America facilities; staff said the barn, steer and small‑livestock facilities are in planning stages and will need Division of the State Architect (DSA) approval before construction can begin.

Trustees thanked the coach for volunteering and encouraged the community to attend the team’s first official match on Jan. 7.