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Coach, boosters urge Banning USD to increase support for athletics
Summary
A Banning High coach and multiple booster representatives told trustees they need consistent support — coaching stipends, weightlifting classes and fewer restrictions on fundraising — saying neighboring districts provide more resources and that boosters have raised significant funds for the district.
During the public‑comment period, Jake Neesel, head football coach at Banning High School, urged district leaders to provide consistent support for athletics. Neesel said promised six‑period football scheduling did not materialize, coaches and coaching stipends are insufficient (he reported receiving seven football stipends compared with larger numbers in neighboring districts), and booster fundraising efforts such as game‑day t‑shirt sales and food trucks have faced restrictions. He said players and families deserve similar support to that provided in nearby districts and described a lack of response to prior emails to district leadership.
Angelica Lyons, a volunteer and booster member, asked the district to partner with boosters to create a weightlifting class for football players, citing national associations that recommend off‑season structured training for injury prevention and arguing that athletics help retain students in the district. Lyons said local boosters have raised "over a $100,000" for Banning Unified and asked for reciprocal support from the district.
Renee Torres, vice president of the Banning Broncos marching regiment boosters, announced the marching regiment advanced to semifinals and requested community attendance and logistical support for competitions (Nov. 22 in Whittier). Trustees and staff thanked speakers for their advocacy and for volunteer efforts.
There was no formal board action on athletic program changes at this meeting; trustees acknowledged the concerns and thanked volunteers for their service. Staff and trustees discussed logistics related to athletic scheduling, stipends and transportation in subsequent presentations.
