Why has Director of Pinellas County School Athletics Marc Allison disrupted football legacies?
GOLIATH J. DAVIS, III, Ph.D. | Contributor
PINELLAS COUNTY — Alumni from South County schools, Gibbs, Lakewood and Boca Ciega share similar concerns. Why has Marc Allison disrupted football legacies? Games between the three are anticipated each year, but it appears Director Allison has developed a schedule for this academic year that precludes what has become ritual. Alums want to know why!
Director of Pinellas County School Athletics Marc Allison
Additionally, private institutions are recruiting players away from Lakewood and other schools, and from a community perspective, Allison does not appear to be doing anything to address the situation. If this is not the case, the south side community would like an explanation. Alums from Gibbs and Lakewood are especially concerned.
Players from Northeast High School voluntarily transferred to Lakewood High, and it is alleged that Lakewood is being accused of recruiting violations. However, Lakewood players have routinely transferred to Bogie to play football only to return when the season is completed. From a community perspective, many are confused by the allegations and the movement between schools and question what rules, if any, are in place and whether they are being enforced.
Let’s be clear, no one is accusing Allison of any inappropriate behavior. However, given his title and area of responsibility, some believe an explanation is in order. So, Mr. Allison, what say you? Given this season is currently underway, it may be too late to adjust. However, how do we avoid future occurrences? Does the state have a role, and if so, what has been done at that level to address recruiting violations?
I am confident Allison and the leaders of the schools in question can resolve this situation and provide concerned alumni with information to address their concerns. Director Allison, you are wanted for clarification, leadership, and direction. Why is this occurring? Communities want to know.
Dr. Goliath Davis, a former St. Petersburg police chief and deputy mayor, advocates for education in Pinellas County, with a focus on improving Black student achievement.
