Lawrence football parents demand answers on new home field
Board hears from supporters as team faces another road-only season.
Parents, alumni and supporters of the Lawrence High School football program pressed the Board of Education on Sept. 1 over when the Golden Tornadoes will play on a home field again. The team is scheduled for all eight games on the road this season, its second straight without a home field. Lawrence resident and alumnus Mike DeRosa questioned why the team could not use the newly sodded soccer field at Lawrence Middle School, saying the experience matters more than the grass. “Give these kids a home,” he told the board.
Board President Heshy Blachorsky said the district is committed to the program and has a pending Federal Emergency Management Agency claim, previously pre-approved for more than $70 million in district projects, including a new football field. Superintendent Ann Pedersen said the project was delayed after a public meeting raised flooding concerns, prompting FEMA to request additional studies. Those studies are now complete, and the district is awaiting pre-approval again. Pedersen said a timeline is hard to give because another public meeting would be needed after approval.
Assistant coach Daniel Amaya, an alumnus, said the current practice field is plagued by mosquitoes, with players wearing long sleeves to protect themselves. He said coaches are working to rebuild participation after the team was recognized last season as one of Nassau County's most improved. “We need to keep it about the kids,” Amaya said.