Athletics update: girls flag football grows; district cites $28,000 estimate for two shot clocks, resident questions pricing

The Scotch Plains-Fanwood student athletics and activities committee reported growth in girls sports and reviewed participation and budget considerations, and the board discussed a mandated shot-clock installation with an estimated cost.

A committee speaker reported that girls flag football had "approximately 40 athletes this season" and that the sport is now officially adopted. The committee also discussed lacrosse participation numbers, a single golfer participating in girls golf opportunities, and challenges for creating a girls-only ice-hockey league due to low participation.

On facility costs, the committee said a statewide decision requires shot clocks and that the district’s estimate for purchasing and installing clocks that integrate with the existing scoreboard and meet prevailing-wage installation requirements is about $28,000 to cover both gyms. Later in public comment a resident said an internet search turned up clocks for under $10,000 and requested to see vendor quotes.

District staff explained that the higher estimate reflects the need to install clocks in two locations, meet prevailing-wage rules for installation and electrical work, and use clocks that integrate with existing scoreboards — otherwise a cheaper clock may require replacing a scoreboard. Staff said they would gather multiple quotes and the necessary paperwork to comply with procurement rules.

The board did not approve a specific contract during the meeting; the discussion focused on committee findings, vendor quotes and compliance steps for any future purchase.