Hockey Dad Asks Board Of Ed For Additional Funding

Springfield resident Mike Sack spoke before the Springfield Board of Education Monday evening to ask if it were possible for the Jonathan Dayton High School ice hockey team to receive additional funding.

Sack told the board that each player's family contributes $600 per season. With 20 players on the Bulldogs team, that amounts to $12,000, Sack said. While he said he isn't against paying for his son to play, he wondered if there were a way to save money by reducing busing to local practices or games as some players drive themselves or receive rides from family members.

Board members explained that just that evening they had approved motions to contract with Union Sports Arena for ice rental for practices and games for the 2013-2014 season at a fee of close to $22,000.

Board member Jacqueline Shanes told Sack annually the district contributes close to $44,000 to the sport after coaches, officials and event staff are taken into account.

Schools Superintendent Michael Davino explained that if the team did not use the district's buses it could expose the district to additional liability, but said he would contact the district's attorney and insurance broker to double check. Board members also suggested that doing away with busing for one sport could open up a "Pandora's box" and expressed the desire to remain consistent throughout the district in regard to sports transportation.

Sack said he was unaware of the items on Monday evening's agenda and thanked the board for their time and support.