Three-year Raider Athletics co-op shows growth, board weighs formal agreement

Athletic directors Matt Johnson and Colby Caid told a joint meeting of the New Buffalo Area Schools and River Valley boards that the Raider Athletics co-op launched in 2023 has produced measurable participation and competitive gains.

The presentation listed 2025–26 accomplishments including ten merged varsity programs, 64 All-Conference athletes, nine All-District athletes and 27 All-Region athletes, plus conference championships and multiple state qualifiers. Johnson said the merger responds to long-term enrollment declines — "approximately 34–37% over the past 13 years" — and aims to provide more students with appropriate competitive opportunities and leadership development.

Board members and administrators also discussed governance. Caid argued a written agreement would preserve consistency across future leadership changes: "I believe a document outlining the program's rules and guidelines would help ensure consistency should a new Athletic Director assume the role." Johnson noted that individual sports operate under Michigan High School Athletic Association two‑year commitments and described ongoing work on a consolidated handbook, standardized coaching pay, and unified communication systems.

Superintendent Adam Bowen praised coaches and staff and asked whether boards wanted staff to begin drafting a formal co-op contract; President Denise Churchill said New Buffalo would explore the idea and seek input from absent members before committing. The boards did not vote on a contract at the meeting; superintendents were directed to collaborate and bring formal proposals to a future meeting.