Valley Central Community,
I am writing to share an update regarding the varsity football championship game.
Following the denial of its appeals to both Section IX and the New York State Public High School Athletic Association, the Enlarged City School District of Middletown has filed an Article 78 proceeding with the New York State Supreme Court in Orange County in lieu of appealing to the Commissioner of the NYS Department of Education.
The Article 78 proceeding challenges Section IX’s determination that disqualified Middletown’s varsity football team from the Nov. 14 championship game because an ineligible Middletown student played in the Nov. 6 game against Valley Central. That determination advanced our team instead of Middletown to the championship game.
We are awaiting the court’s decision on the final determination of whether Middletown or our team will advance to Saturday’s game. We anticipate receiving an update tomorrow. Please note that the game has been rescheduled to 12 p.m. at Monroe-Woodbury High School.
Our student-athletes and coaching staff have continued practicing and preparing for Saturday’s game despite the stress of the unknowns of this situation. We recognize that this has been a highly emotional and challenging experience for all involved.
There has been much debate and rhetoric within the respective school district communities, and it is unfortunate that in public discussions, particularly on social media, Valley Central’s students and coaches are being targeted, blamed, and have been on the receiving end of unfairly directed criticism. Above all, I want our students and coaches to know that we are proud of the hard work they put into their season and how they have conducted themselves with integrity and VC Pride during this difficult time.
Interscholastic athletics is an integral part of our district. We believe athletics provides student-athletes opportunities to develop important skills outside of the classroom, such as teamwork, resilience, perseverance, self-confidence and the ability to respond positively to adversity. It is in moments like these that our true character and resilience shine through, especially when we continue to treat one another with respect. Our players and coaches continue to demonstrate these qualities by supporting one another and remaining focused on their preparation.
This situation is a prime example of how our students persevere and rise above the commentary and circumstances as one team, one district. I ask our community to follow their example by keeping our students at the center and expressing support in ways that reflect our shared values.
I deeply appreciate those in our community and beyond who have supported and offered encouragement to our players, coaches, and district as we continue to navigate this challenging situation. I will continue to share updates through ParentSquare and our district website as more information becomes available.
Sincerely,
Evette Avila
Superintendent