July 31, 2020

At 12:26 pm on Friday, July 31st, St. Mary’s School administration received a letter from the Diocese of Belleville stating that “it has been decided that we are postponing all sports in our elementary schools.” The reasoning: “our priority has been to create a safe environment during the school day that allows us to continue to offer in-person instruction.” The Diocese of Belleville will revisit this issue throughout the school year.

So, with this information, the cooperative athletic teams for Allendale CCSD 17 and St. Mary’s School will not be participating in any Fall sports, to include Baseball, Softball, and Cross Country. As the Diocese of Belleville has stated, we too as a cooperative athletic program will continue to revisit this issue throughout the school year, along with the SIJHSAA. Both schools appreciate the support we receive from each school community and look forward to the day we can compete again, together, in athletics.

Bob Bowser – Allendale Superintendent/Principal/Athletic Director

Chris Lavely – St. Mary’s Principal

Jami Walker – St. Mary’s Athletic Director