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Parents present 653-signature petition urging Bristol High School to add soccer
Summary
Two parents asked the board to establish boys' and girls' soccer at Bristol High School; Judy Sweeney presented a 653-signature petition (529 from borough residents) and Aaron Antonelli described existing infrastructure and a feeder program that he said supports a school team.
At public comment the board heard a petition drive urging creation of a high‑school soccer program. Judy Sweeney introduced herself as a Bristol Borough parent and said she had gathered 653 signatures, 529 of which she said were from Bristol Borough residents, and asked the board to consider establishing separate boys’ and girls’ teams. Sweeney said district officials repeatedly told her “Bristol Borough is not a soccer town,” and she disputed that claim, saying community interest exists.
Aaron Antonelli, also speaking as a parent, told the board the district already has infrastructure that could support soccer — “we have a 7 v 7 field. We have a 9 v 9 field” — and noted goals purchased earlier that he said are not being used. Antonelli said the town has feeder programs for ages up to U12, and argued a school team would expand access for students who cannot afford club costs or whose families lack transportation to neighboring districts. Board members asked to follow up after the meeting and the president offered to speak with petition organizers.
The board did not take an immediate vote on the petition; members directed staff and trustees to follow up with the athletic director and clarify logistics, rostering and facility-use permissions.
