Rock Hill High School Girls’ Lacrosse Program Suspended
Rock Hill, S.C. — The girls’ lacrosse team at Legion Collegiate Academy has been suspended for the upcoming season due to the school’s inability to find a coach. This decision has left players and parents feeling frustrated and overlooked.
What Happened?
The athletic director announced the suspension of the program months before the season began. In an official statement, he explained, “After careful and extensive evaluation, we were unable to identify a coaching candidate who aligns with the mission of Legion Collegiate Academy.” This news comes as a disappointment, particularly for the players who were hopeful for a productive season.
Who is Affected?
Parents of players, like Nadege Baron, expressed their concerns about the school’s decision. Baron, whose daughter plays on the team, voiced her feelings of being “disheartened.” “We feel disrespected and not heard,” she stated. Baron highlighted that the team has struggled with inconsistent coaching over the past two seasons, adding to the frustration of players and their families.
Where Do Players Go From Here?
In the letter sent to parents, the school’s athletic director offered an alternative. He mentioned that girls could join lacrosse teams at their home-zoned schools while still enrolled at Legion. However, this option does not work for everyone, as some zoned schools do not have a girls’ lacrosse program. Baron noted, “They’re not taking it seriously. There are 26 girls that are committed to be a part of the lacrosse program for girls and they’re just turning a blind eye to the whole program.”
Why Was the Program Suspended?
The school leaders have not provided specifics regarding why they could not find a suitable coach. They have indicated that the program is suspended and not permanently canceled, which leaves room for hope amongst the team and their supporters. However, the lack of transparency about the selection process has raised suspicions among parents like Baron. She suggested, “I just feel like they had this in mind to shut down the program and they weren’t being truthful and honest with us.”
Looking Ahead
The future of girls’ lacrosse at Legion Collegiate Academy remains uncertain. Some parents and players hope that the school will reconsider its stance and work on attracting qualified candidates to revitalize the program. The team’s absence this season could also impact the future of girls’ sports at the academy if no quick solution is reached.
As the school year progresses, many in the Rock Hill community are watching closely. The outcome for the girls’ lacrosse program may set the tone for how other athletic programs operate within the academy. Parents continue to advocate for their children, seeking respect and recognition for their commitment to the sport.
