Switch to top team backfires

Guard seeks move back to junior Pickering folds senior girls hoops

Pickering High School has decided to fold its senior girls basketball program after the majority of players had problems with attitude, academics and commitment. But the bold move, taken by coach Sarah Wills and supported by principal Al Monks, has created a problem for a very talented player. Monica Jones, a 15- year-old guard, would have been eligible to play another season with the junior team, but figured she would gain more experience and moved up to senior. When Pickering folded the senior squad, Jones thought she could drop back to the junior team. Not so, according to Chrystal Bryan, president of Lake Ontario Secondary School Association, which sets the rules and regulations.

Jones has appealed for approval to play with the juniors, but Bryan said it would be a contravention of the league’s rules.

“I’m very frustrated; I had nothing to do with the problem and am aware of rules, but surely there should be some exceptions, especially when I’m not at fault,” Jones said. “ Rules shouldn’t be carved in stone.” Bryan said she would raise the matter with the league membership, but that won’t occur until the annual meeting next June. Bob Jones, who waited 13 days before hearing whether his daughter would be eligible, said he is furious with the delay.

“ We need people in charge who care about students and not penalize everyone for the mistakes of others,” he said.