Budget woes may eliminate school sports

The state's schools are seriously strapped for cash so much so one local city is considering scrapping their entire sports program to cut costs.

Woonsocket schools Superintendent Doctor Robert Gerardi says when the school committee voted to cut middle school sports last year, the athletic department was able to get volunteer coaches and raise enough money to keep most of the teams afloat.

Now high school sports teams are trying to do the same. Nearly 200 people including coaches, athletes, and parents took a break from summer vacation to discuss the future of their athletic program. Coaches from football, girls' soccer, girls' tennis and girls field hockey teems have agreed to volunteer.

"The students here at Woonsocket where I happen to teach as well deserve the same opportunities that players throughout the state have," said John Marsella, Woonsocket Assistant Football Coach.

But keeping sports will take more than volunteer coaches. Transportation costs and paying officials cost the football team $10,000 dollars a year. If they can't raise that money, the team won't play.

"Play I play football. That's all I'm good at. I think if I do good my senior year it could get me somewhere. This is the only thing I got," said Louis Heredia and Shawn Harris, football players.

Reporter asks: "You're hoping to go to college on a football scholarship?"
Football players: "Yup."

The Woonsocket School Committee voted to cut nearly all sports teams as part of a move to balance the district's $6.9 million dollar budget gap. Cuts also include eliminating most extracurricular activities and 40 furlough days for employees.

In statement to Eyewitness News Superintendent Doctor Robert Gerardi said, "We are in a difficult position. Fortunately we have dedicated coaches who are able to volunteer. I applaud my staff members that they’re trying to make the best of a difficult time."

The school committee is in superior court on Thursday. They want the City of Woonsocket to cover the nearly $3.7 million dollar deficit from last year's school budget.