ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATION – 6145.8

When a school has evidence that they have sufficient numbers to field a new sport they may submit an application for consideration and approval.  Evidence may include previous club participation as a school team (see AR 6145.6), participation by students on outside club teams, or participation in outside leagues (such as AYSO, Matt Leinart Leagues, etc.).

An application should include the following information:

1. Evidence of previous participation and support within the student body.
   1. Numbers of athletes interested and their previous involvement
   2. Parent or Booster club support
2. Program impact at the school site:
   1. Facility space
   2. Impact on other sports
   3. Practice schedule
   4. Administrative supervision
   5. Athletic trainer support
3. Approximate costs:
   1. Coaching stipends / Shares amount and equivalency with other sports
   2. Officials availability and cost
   3. Cost of equipment and supplies
   4. Transportation
4. Competition schedule:
   1. League affiliation / Proximity of competition
   2. Length of season
5. Additional elements:
   1. Course description in program of studies
   2. Title IX implications- according to Ed. Code 230 - through a three-part test districts must show they have effectively accommodated the interests and abilities of both sexes in athletics.
      1. Interscholastic-level participation opportunities for male and female students are provided in numbers substantially proportionate to their respective enrollments.
      2. Where the members of one sex have been and are underrepresented among interscholastic athletes, whether the district can show a history and a continuing practice of program expansion that is demonstrably responsive to the developing interests and abilities of the members of that sex.
      3. Where the members of one sex are underrepresented among interscholastic athletes and the district cannot show a history and continuing practice of program expansion as required in item #1b above, whether the district can demonstrate that the interests and abilities of the members of that sex have been fully and effectively accommodated by the present program

Once an application has been submitted to the Executive Director of Secondary Education it will go through a consideration process.

Approvals Required: 

1. High School Principals
2. Athletic Directors
3. Education Services Department
4. Cabinet - including input from Human Resources and Business Services
5. Board of Education with presentation 

Once all approvals are received, district funds will be provided commensurate with other sports for transportation, coaching shares, officials fees, and safety equipment.

Please use the application form linked here in making your submission.

Implemented: March 9, 2023