Medford Area school board approves expanded dual‑sports policy after split vote

The Medford Area Public School District Board of Education voted 5–4 on June 29 to allow any high‑school student to participate in dual sports if they complete the district’s required contract.

Board Member Don Everhard moved the measure and Board Member Heidi Haynes seconded it. The roll call vote was: Aemus Balsis, Corey Dassow, Don Everhard, Kurt Werner and Heidi Haynes — yes; Dave Fleegel, Steve Deml, Brian Hallgren and John Zuleger — no. The motion carried.

The change expands a prior practice noted in the minutes: the board had previously permitted dual sports in the 2025–26 school year for students who completed a district contract and recorded one approval last year for girls hockey and curling. Proponents on the board said the motion clarifies eligibility going forward; detractors opposed the policy change in this vote but no detailed public record of their objections was recorded in the minutes.

There were no additional implementation details in the minutes about timelines, contract terms, or changes to coaching/staffing tied to the policy. The board did not record further administrative direction in the minutes; the policy will be implemented through district athletic administration consistent with existing contract procedures.

The board carried the motion at the June 29 regular meeting of the Medford Area Public School District Board of Education.