Athletics report: five state qualifiers, multiple coaching vacancies and a $600 give-back grant

At the Solon Springs School District meeting, an athletics presenter introduced a roundup of spring sports accomplishments and staffing needs.

"We did have five runners that competed at the state track meet," Nathan (S6) said, and he highlighted Isaac Dickinson's podium finishes in the 1,600 and 3,200 meters. Nathan also reported that the softball team finished 16-6, won its fifth straight conference and regional titles, and that the baseball team finished 12-4 and won its sectional before falling in the sectional final.

Nathan listed multiple all-conference selections by name and noted this was "the most kids we've ever had represent our school at the state track meets." He also announced several coaching vacancies, including middle school girls, a football assistant position and middle school boys' basketball head and assistant coaches; he said he expected candidates to be presented for approval at the July meeting.

On small grants and recognition, Nathan described a $600 WIA give-back award from Stratford Sign Company that could be applied toward new championship banners for the gym. "We would need 10 of them…we could get those banners almost paid for through this give back plan," he said, and suggested different banner formats for teams and individual state qualifiers.

Nathan also noted a recent resignation from longtime assistant and middle school cross-country coach Shannon Dickinson and said the district would post that opening for fall. The athletic director asked to return the items to the July agenda for candidate approvals and for the board to consider banner examples before deciding on design or vendor.

Looking ahead, Nathan said fall-sports planning would begin in August, with a fall sports meeting scheduled for Aug. 4 at 7 p.m.