Middle school sports reinstated

Published on Mar 21, 2023
MS Sports

Middle school students in Bloomington will soon have more opportunities to participate in athletics, thanks to a recent decision by the Bloomington School Board. The move comes in response to a growing need for structured after-school activities, a desire to improve school climate, and provide students with a greater sense of belonging.

Middle school sports were eliminated in 2020-21 as part of budget reductions.

Starting in the 2023-24 school year, boys and girls soccer and co-ed wrestling will be added as extracurricular activities; previously track and field was the only middle school athletic offering. Volleyball, basketball and other athletic opportunities will continue to be provided through the after school Galaxy program.

The district is working to secure equipment, hire coaches and leadership, schedule games, and find a suitable conference after receiving a $50,000 grant from the Bloomington Noon Rotary Foundation and ESSER funds of $100,000.

District officials will monitor participation rates and create metrics to gauge success to help inform decision making about potential other sports in the future.