It’s over. Another year of the High School Show - season No. 16. Time for the summer break and an opportunity for many to think about the year that was - success stories for many. Disappointment for others.
On the final show of the season, listeners got a taste of everything. From the list of provincial champs - only two schools in Toronto (St. Michael’s in football and Eastern Commerce in girls’ basketball) to the others in the Greater Toronto Region. In total, a handful won provincial gold medals of the more than 40 Ontario team finals.
The guests were great.
Joe Brisbois, the Principal at St. Michael’s College, spoke about the success of sports at the all boys’ private school. But academics were a priority, then sports. And for those who thought it was mandatory for every student at the private school level to play sports, not so.
Jim Barclay coached the Pickering High boys’ basketball team, which won more games than the NBA champion Boston Celtics. Some people still can’t figure out how a high school team can put together a 70-2 record in a few months. Barclay, by the way, won’t be back to coach after explaining his concerns with the administration at his school. Yes, some controversy.
Lauren Daly, having just finished her Grade 11 year at York Mills Collegiate, told it the way it is - but not happy with the Toronto District School Board deciding to close swimming pools. She won gold medals at the citywide level, then the Ontario level. And what an inspiration, born with cerebral palsy, no excuses from her. She wanted to be like most teenagers - not letting a disability stand in the way. What a great role model.
And Martin Ritsma, the new president of the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations, gave a clear impression that he cares about school sports - and intends to make things happen. Previous OFSAA Presidents should listen and learn.
So, a great year it was. There were many issues. There were many problems. There continues to be issues and problems.
I think it’s about time the Boards of Education realize that people give many hours of personal time to coach students. It’s not a day care service. Give these coaches some credit - especially since they’re not asking for compensation.
But coaches, and Principals, also need to get serious about putting academics ahead of sports. Do well in school and earn a chance to play. Not getting a green light to play because you’re an elite athlete - and failing.
See you in a month or so.
