| Updated: 9/04/2012 10:30 am |
Published: 8/31/2012 9:19 pm
|
Anyone on the sideline at TPS high school football games better have credentials, a media pass or shirt, a jersey or a yellow pass.
Tulsa Public Schools want to keep kids safe and away from any distractions.
"We don't want people who could be down there for the wrong reasons," said TPS Athletic Director Gil Cloud, explaining only people authorized to be on the football field can be on the football field.
He's fielded many complaints from all over town; there are just too many people on the sidelines.
"We just want people involved in the game on the sideline," said Cloud.
He says he's seen injuries involving people who don't belong on the field, excessive celebration, sometimes even fights.
"I think parents will feel a lot safer leaving their kids at an event if they can't stay there," said parent Meryl Payton, who agrees with TPS decision. "It makes me feel better about my son being down there."
Meantime, Gil Cloud says he had to tell 23 of 385 coaches in the district Friday that they may face suspension if they do not immediately submit to five district requirements for coaches including background checks, drug tests and a national coach's exam.
Most of the coaches acted immediately, and now only 7 remain on that list to complete requirements. They have until Tuesday to do so, says Cloud.
TPS is getting stricter with those requirements this season.
"The whole thing about this is what's good for kids? The background check: we don't want a felon coaching our kids and the [drug test], because we don't want someone participating in drug use around our kids," said Cloud.
"I would feel much safer leaving my kids if all the i's are dotted and t's are crossed," said Payton.
