Football fans can stand on the track, if rules respected
By Julia Wolf
Football fans will be allowed on the track during games this year, provided they follow the rules set forth to protect the track surface. The vote came during a regular Cadott School Board meeting Sept. 13, after a discussion about the possibility at a Committee of the Whole meeting a few weeks prior.
The request came from a group of football parents as a way to increase school spirit and community involvement during games. Athletic director Erin Crank researched the topic ahead of the committee meeting and didn’t find other schools with rubberized track surfaces that allowed fans on the track during games, over concerns of damage non-athletic shoes, food and drink could cause to the surface.
The board received two letters and one public comment in favor of letting fans on the track to get closer to the action, and one public comment opposed, citing concerns of shortening the lifespan of the track surface.
“I guess I feel pretty confident that...they’re going to respect the track,” said Christine Rowe, board member.
She says, if it doesn’t work out, it’s disrespectful or rules aren’t being followed, then it won’t be allowed again.
Board president Al Sonnentag added that the group making the request suggested limiting the fans to the 20-yard line, ensuring proper footwear, not allowing food or drink on the track, and other rules.
“They have a very good plan here,” said Sonnentag.
Cory LaNou, board member, asked if the motion is for a trial basis, where if something major went wrong, the privilege would be revoked before the end of this year’s season.
“I think there’s got to be a little skin in the game on their end,” said LaNou.
Others agreed that is a good idea.
Board member Becca Blanchette also said she is not comfortable only allowing Cadott fans on the track, as some suggested, since that doesn’t seem very sportsmanlike.
“I feel like that sends a bad vibe to schools coming here,” said Blanchette.
LaNou agreed it should be fair and suggested the parent group might be able to print a large sign with the rules, so all are aware.
Caleb Hundt, junior and senior high principal, suggested there be a space up to the 20-yard line for the visiting team, making a horseshoe shape, so the fans don’t have to intermingle on the track. Board members suggested Crank work with the parent group to figure that part out.
Community member Amy Wellner asked if, during the track season, track fans would then be allowed on the football field during track meets. LaNou says, if they want that, they should put in the same level of thought as this group did and bring the request before the board.
