TEMECULA — The Temecula Valley Unified School District (TVUSD) Governing Board voted unanimously last Monday night (March 10) to preserve girls’ field hockey programs at Temecula Valley, Chaparral, and Great Oak high schools. After weeks of uncertainty and passionate advocacy from players, coaches, and parents, the 4-0 decision marked a significant victory for the sport’s place in local athletics.
During the special meeting, several field hockey players, dressed in their varsity jackets, stepped up to the podium to share heartfelt stories about their love for the game. For many, field hockey is more than a sport, it’s a potential career pathway and a close-knit community that shapes their high school experience.
“This sport is my family,” one high school athlete said. “We’ve worked hard to build this program, and it would crush us to lose it now.” That sentiment was echoed repeatedly during the meeting as a total of 34 speakers, including students, parents, and supporters, urged leaders to rethink their plans to cut the sport.
The controversy began a few weeks ago when field hockey was put on the chopping block due to concerns voiced by district athletic directors. They cited a lack of resources, challenges with transportation for away games, and missed class time as reasons to pivot to other sports. But the larger community rallied, vowing to safeguard the sport that had become an integral part of their identities.
Dr. Joseph Komrosky, one of the four trustees present at the meeting, struck a chord with attendees when he revealed how deeply the issue had affected him. “You’re warriors and fighters, and I heard your voice,” Komrosky said. “I’ve spent the last week thinking of nothing but how to keep this program alive. I want field hockey to flourish—not just survive.”
Komrosky called for immediate action, including reinstating two fired coaches—Jim Dail at Temecula Valley High School and Brian Carter at Chaparral High School. Both were dismissed recently, adding to the tension and urgency surrounding the future of the program. “Those coaches were fired without any warning. That’s shameful,” Komrosky stated firmly, calling for an immediate reversal.
He also pushed for funding solutions, identifying the program’s $26,000 cost as a feasible challenge to surmount. “We can raise the funds needed to keep this sport active,” he said. Additionally, Komrosky advocated for a focused marketing campaign at the middle school level to generate early interest in the sport and ensure the program’s longevity.
While the motion to save field hockey passed with cheers and hugs from an emotional crowd, questions about the reinstated coaches lingered, especially at TVHS. Despite Komrosky’s backing, Jim Dail texted confirmation that Temecula Valley High School Athletic Director John Harney indicated no intention of rehiring him. This decision remains unresolved at the time of publication, leaving the community watching closely for further developments.
The vote itself was a resounding victory, demonstrating the power of collective advocacy. The packed room, united in support of field hockey, proved that this sport has an important place in the lives of students and families within the district.
Addressing the young players in attendance, Komrosky closed his remarks with a message that resonated deeply with the crowd. “To all the girls here tonight, I want you to know that I’m going to fight for you. I want to see you thriving, not struggling. I can’t wait to catch a game soon.”
The high school girls’ field hockey season typically runs in the fall, starting around the end of August and lasting until the middle of November. With the programs officially preserved and new energy injected into the sport, the future of girls’ field hockey in Temecula looks brighter than before. The voices of the players and their supporters ensured that a sport that inspires passion and opportunity will remain an integral part of TVUSD athletics.
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