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Board approves CIF multischool membership to let GECA students play Gilroy High sports
Summary
After a student presentation and district discussion of logistics, the board approved a California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) multischool membership enabling GECA students to participate on Gilroy High teams beginning in 2026–27; the district noted an approximate $324 annual application cost and a cap of 300 students.
The Gilroy Unified Board voted to approve a California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) multischool membership that will allow students from the Dr. TJ Owens Gilroy Early College Academy (GECA) to participate in Gilroy High School athletics.
Student presenter Manreet described student interest and survey results showing broad demand: "About 78% of the students who filled out the Google form said they would want to play sports at Gilroy High School," she said, advocating that a partnership would expand opportunities for students who lack access to club sports or transportation.
The CIF bylaw cited by presenters (Bylaw 3‑0‑3) allows non‑CIF schools to partner with member high schools; the district noted the application fee is approximately $324 per year and that the arrangement caps GECA participation at 300 students. Athletic director Josh Adams said Gilroy High has struggled to field some teams and welcomed the additional numbers. "The proximity was also a thing that made sense to us with GECA being on our side of town," Adams said.
Trustees asked about practice scheduling, eligibility and transportation. Presenters acknowledged that some practice times may shift (coaches may move practices to 4:15–4:30 p.m.) to allow GECA students to get to Gilroy High after their school day. The district and coaches said they expect to manage eligibility and residency questions under CIF rules and to use carpooling and existing Gilroy High arrangements for travel.
After discussion, the board approved the application to pursue the CIF multischool membership. District staff said they will submit the application to CIF and return with implementation details as required.
