Ridge High School in Bernards Township, New Jersey, has taken a historic step by sanctioning its inaugural girls' ice hockey team, a move that reflects the district's response to growing student interest in the sport.
The Bernards Township Board of Education voted on Monday night to endorse the program, paving the way for a full‑season schedule that will compete against other high schools in the region.
A milestone for girls' ice hockey
Board member David Shaw, who championed the proposal, said the approval marks a significant milestone for female athletes at the school and underscores the district's commitment to expanding extracurricular opportunities.
A coalition of parents has pledged to finance the team for its first two years, covering expenses that include ice‑time rentals, coaching stipends, league fees, uniforms, equipment and transportation, ensuring that the district's operating budget remains untouched during that period.
Funding and future review
Under the agreement, the parent‑funded model will be evaluated after the initial two‑year term, with the board planning to assess the program's sustainability in light of district resources, the overall athletics budget and recommendations from school administrators.
While the immediate financial burden falls on the parent group, district officials have indicated that long‑term support will depend on the program's performance, participation rates and the availability of funding within the broader athletics budget.
Community enthusiasm
The initiative has generated enthusiasm among students, many of whom have already signed up for tryouts, and local supporters hope the team will become a permanent fixture in the school's sports lineup.