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School committee approves Holio High basketball trip to Puerto Rico, conditions fundraising on MIAA approval
Summary
The committee authorized student travel for a Holio High School basketball team to an invitational in San Juan, but added a requirement that participation and fundraiser activities be pending Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) approval and that the district update the committee in July.
The Holyoke School Committee approved a motion authorizing Holio High School students to travel to an invitational basketball tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in December 2026, but the authorization was amended to be contingent on Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association approval.
Committee members discussed a history of an earlier incident involving Central High School and asked whether Springfield had completed its approvals; members and administrators said they had met with Springfield officials and the MIAA and that the MIAA was still reviewing how the event would fit within rules (including whether the Hall of Fame’s paid-admission format would allow a scrimmage classification). Athletic director Mel Martin said the plan was to bring returning varsity players and possibly swing players and that the district had shared event details with the MIAA and was awaiting further answers.
Members also raised concerns about fundraising: the event’s fundraising would be conducted by an independent booster club, not the district, and the committee cautioned boosters not to solicit funds before MIAA confirmation. Mr. Sheen moved an amendment adding the caveat that participation is "pending MIAA approval" with an update to be provided at the July 13 meeting; the committee approved the amendment and then approved the travel authorization as amended in a roll-call vote.
Administration said if MIAA denies approval or the event cannot proceed, booster funds would be returned to donors and that the district would keep records as required where applicable. The committee asked administration to report back with MIAA guidance and any required documentation at the July meeting.
