New rules allow for eighth graders in some high school sports

Eighth-graders, under certain conditions, will be able to take part in some high school sports, according to a new policy approved by the school board, March 12.

If a team sport is not offered at the eighth-grade level, students will be allowed to try out and participate with high school athletes if high school turnouts in baseball or softball do not exceed 25 athletes.

Eighth graders can also try out and participate in basketball if high school turnouts do not exceed nine students and the same for volleyball if high school turnouts do not exceed 11 athletes.

Eighth graders, the new policy states, cannot participate in the high school football program.

All of the practices are subject to WIAA rules, however.