VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - From Kindergarten to Kellam High School, Aidan McGarry has been on a wrestling mat.
“It has given him so much, in terms of self-confidence,” Aidan’s mother, Missy McGarry said.
But the McGarrys are reacting to Virginia Beach City Public Schools choosing to revert back to all virtual learning due to health metrics.
“We just need to make sure that we're doing our part to keep our students safe and our staff safe,” VBCPS Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence said.
In a letter sent to staff and families Monday afternoon, district officials said the move also means all activities related to varsity winter sports are postponed until further notice.
For Missy McGarry, she's looking forward to seeing her son compete in his senior season.
“There are a lot of kids who are using this as a launch pad for scholarships to get into college, and this is their last opportunity to shine,” Missy said.
“We have not canceled our winter sports season,” VBCPS Coordinator of Student Activities David Rhodes said.
District officials said they'll be monitoring metrics and having internal discussions to salvage the season.
“I know there are athletes that have been anticipating getting back together [and] practicing,” Rhodes said.
“We're looking for a trend, so we already have seven-day rolling averages and we're looking to see if that rolling average carries out for seven days,” Dr. Spence added. “If we see that trend downward after seven days, then we'll push the gas again on athletics.”
Meanwhile, Aidan McGarry is looking on the bright side.
“I guess it gives me more time to train,” Aidan said.
Hoping to hit the mat one last time of his high school career.
