BREAKING NEWS: There will be no football game October 19, 2013. Instead the boy’s varsity soccer game will be the homecoming event. The soccer game will begin at noon.

The football game is cancelled due to eligibility. The student bodies’ opinions are mixed. Some are upset with this decision others aren’t. Most students believe that it’s not a good idea to cancel the homecoming game and have the soccer players play. We asked a few students: “How do you feel about the football game being cancelled? Do you think it’s fair?” One senior anonymously said “No, it’s not fair. It’s not a good idea for spectators, there will be nowhere to sit” Another student anonymously stated: “It’s whatever; it’s a good opportunity for the soccer team to show who they are.” Two more students anonymously said: “The football players deserved it, but instead of letting the soccer team play, they should just promote the modified team.” Cinthya Sanchez said: “That’s not good because it’s always the football team that plays for homecoming, it’s traditional”.

Today, October 17, Mercury reporters Somoya Jimerson and Paige Hill interviewed PHS principal Mr. Hutchinson about this decision.

Mercury Reporters: Why did this happen?

Mr. Hutchinson: Because of the Board of Educations policy on “Eligibility.” If you are failing two or more classes you have to miss a game.  The division has records of how many students can be on the field.

Mercury Reporters:

Mr. Hutchinson:  The Board of Education. Whose decision was it? Who called it off?

Mercury Reporters: Are you planning on attending the soccer game on Saturday?

Mr. Hutchinson: Absolutely.

Mercury Reporters: Do you have any ideas to prevent this from happening?

Mr. Hutchinson: Improve communication between home and school also students and teachers. We are trying to step up a system called “Student Portal” similar to “Parent Portal” where students can check their grades to see how they’re doing in classes. Extracurricular activities are a privilege and reward. Do what you have to do. There were ways to prevent this game from getting cancelled. Students could have showed up to call back or Elton Brand or even talk to their teachers to help their grade.

Mercury Reporters: How do you feel about this homecoming situation?

Mr. Hutchinson: It is hard reality, when you work hard you get rewarded.