Hurley School Board grants funds for hockey players

HURLEY, Wis — The Hurley School Board awarded the Hurley/Ashland co-op hockey team a $500 grant per player during its regular meeting on Monday night.

The district has been participating in the co-op for four years, and every year participation has increased. According to Brooke Gilbertson, the team was formed with five players from Hurley. In its second season it had six, in the third season there were eight players, and there are now nine Hurley players on the team. She said she expects to have at least nine next year as well, possibly more.

“I anticipate the costs to be going up due to fuel price increases and things like that,” said Gilbertson. “We have a full season and I just anticipate (costs to be) probably $18,000-plus.”

She said the costs for the team have been gradually increasing per player. Last year, costs were $1,631 per player, but the season was shortened. The year prior costs were $1,788 per player.

“Now with all the increases that we are experiencing, I do see that number going up,” said Gilbertson.

The co-op team did a lot of fundraising over the summer and currently has over $8,000 in its account. “We’re working hard trying to do what we can,” Gilbertson said.

“I think hockey is a great program,” said Leslie Kolesar, board president.

Kolesar asked Gilbertson if the co-op follows the same rule as the WIAA as far as student conduct. Gilbertson said they do and they adhere to the school policy for athletic code as well.

“I think we should do something,” said board member Andy Laurin.

Board member Kathy Levra said she liked the amount per player, as it doesn’t lock them into a certain amount if the numbers change.

“The numbers could very well expand and that would be good, too,” said Levra

The board voted unanimously to approve Gilbertson’s request. Kolesar told Gilbertson that they appreciate all she has done for the team. Levra agreed and added that Gilbertson has done a great job fundraising this year.

“By contributing $500 per player, it will offset some of the total expense per player which will result in a little less fundraising taking place,” district superintendent Kevin Genisot told the Daily Globe in an email.

The board also:

—Discussed the 10-year grounds plan.

—Received the restraint and seclusion report per the Wisconsin requirement.

—Raised prices for adult breakfasts and lunches. Breakfasts will now cost adults $2.56. Lunches will cost $4.56 for adults. Student meals are covered by grant funding.

—Granted fall approval for the Early College Credit program/Start College Now. There are 13 students currently enrolled in the program.