From my Friend Jourdan Marino
Hey Everyone,
Many already know, and many may not, but the MIAA (Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association) has decided to drop Men’s Gymnastics as a Varsity sport in Massachusetts despite the support of town administrators. Many have benefited either directly or indirectly from Gymnastics being at the high school level and it’s in jeopardy of being gone. The ramifications will also be felt at the Women’s high school level if this does not change. Although we have the support of town administrators which is great, I urge anyone that cares about this sport being available at all levels to write to the MIAA and politely ask them to reconsider this drastic decision. If you have a personal story, that is even better. Their information is below. If you have any questions or need any more information please contact me, Sean Monaco, or any other MA High School coach anytime. Also PLEASE pass this message along to anyone else that may not already know of this issue. The more letters the better!M.I.A.A.33 Forge ParkwayFranklin, MA 02038email: miaa@miaa.net
Article in BOSTON GLOBE
This is your opportunity to MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Write the letter RIGHT NOW!
Feel free to cut and paste the following letter and send it. It only takes a moment.
Dear MIAA,
I am tremendously disappointed with your decision to drop MEN’S GYMNASTICS as a Varsity Sport. Many student athletes have benefitted directly or indirectly because of gymnastics programs. There are approximately 220 boys involved with High School Teams. Many more than are involved in other sports. Many of these boys have gone on to compete in college as well.
Massachusetts has a strong history with gymnastics and the numbers of boys competing in programs has remained steady and in some schools increased in the last few years.
Many people have forgotten or have no idea why gymnastics is so important.
Gymnastics teaches the basics for all sports. Strength, flexibility and agility are the key ingredients. A child with a gymnastics background develops skills that will better prepare him or her for other sports. That is just one reason why gymnastics has always been considered the master of all sports. Gymnastics also teaches us to be ambidextrous. Having the same amount of strength and flexibility on both sides of our bodies will help us in whatever sport we decide to enjoy. It is one of the few sports that teaches us how to fall and protect ourself from injury.
I urge you to reconsider your decision.
