To the Editor:

High school sports are critical to our children’s development and well-being. Many have been playing (and maturing) together since they were 5 years old. Our resolve to have them continue this fall should be strong. These formative years are ones they cannot get back. Fortunately, the Guilderland School Board voted, 6 to 3, to allow soccer and field hockey to continue this fall.

Shouldn’t it be the parent’s decision to allow their kids to play or not, not an administrator or board? No one is more concerned for a child’s welfare than his or her parent. Keep in mind, according to one health study, the risk of catching COVID-19 outdoors is 20 times less than through indoor activity. This is especially true when safety protocols are followed.

Guilderland athletes started playing unofficial soccer matches Aug. 1 of this year against players from many other area high schools (including Bethlehem players, by the way). The players wore masks to and from the games but not while playing. To my knowledge, not one child of the hundreds competing got COVID-19.

Several of our athletes are seeking to play on the college level. This season is critical, especially since the tournaments and clinics that college coaches attend to scout prospects have been cancelled since spring.

Of course, a big spike in COVID-19 cases could alter plans. I recognize opponents of fall sports are concerned about safety. We all are. Please allow parents more flexibility to choose what is best for their children and offer your support for our sports programs. 

Mark Grimm

Guilderland

Editor’s note: Mark Grimm signed his letter as a “Guilderland High School parent.” He is also an Albany County legislator.