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Resident urges board to fix fields, reopen coaching pathways and prioritize maintenance
Summary
A Rochelle Park resident urged the board to address deteriorating athletic fields, slippery courts and barriers that prevent parents from coaching; the board said it will examine court surfacing and look into coaching-certification requirements believed to be set at the state level.
At the April 28 meeting, resident Mr. Kavanaugh (Becker Ave) urged the board to prioritize maintenance of athletic fields and courts and to explore ways for parents to assist with coaching. He described exposed pitching-mound rubber and holes at home plate, and said slippery indoor courts caused visiting teams to stop play: "Playgrounds are great, I'm not saying take it away, but fields also have to be maintained," he said.
Board President Scott Kral responded that the district is already looking into alternatives to the calcium pellets used on courts this winter after they turned into a slick residue, and that the playground ad hoc committee will consider broader property improvements. On the coaching issue, Kral said the requirement to be a coach that includes a teaching certificate is "believed to be from the state, not our policy alone," and the board will look into the rule.
The exchange highlighted parent concerns about day-to-day maintenance and volunteer involvement ahead of planned capital and playground work.
