Avon Lawmakers Give Assist to Avon High School Crew

March 13, 2017

State Senator Kevin Witkos, State Representative Tim LeGeyt and State Representative Derek Slap have thrown a life line to the Avon High School Crew Team.

“I thank the city of Hartford for making this common sense but highly impactful adjustment,” Sen. Witkos said. “We’re all rowing in the same direction, and that’s good news for both the Avon Crew team and the environment. I encourage anyone who hasn’t seen these student athletes in action to take an afternoon to enjoy their races at Batterson Park Pond.”

“In this situation, where Hartford’s governmental process put the ability of the Avon crew team to prepare in some degree of jeopardy, I’m pleased that thoughtful consideration prevailed,” added Rep. LeGeyt.

“I’m gratified we were able to get this done for the student-athletes and their families in Avon,” said Rep. Slap. “They work hard to be members of the crew team and the thought of not being able to be out on the lake this year because of a sudden change in municipal policy was understandably frustrating. Hartford deserves credit for their flexibility.”

The crew team practices in Farmington at Batterson Park Pond , which is owned by the City of Hartford. An agreement that expired in December allowed coaches to use gas powered engines on their launch boats. The City’s proposed renewal agreement required use of electric motors – a provision that would have cost thousands of dollars. The Avon lawmakers succeeded in convincing Hartford officials to extend the engine waiver for one year. Efforts for a long-term waiver are continuing.

“The Avon High School Crew program is very appreciative of the efforts of Senator Witkos, Representative LeGeyt, and Representative Slap in addressing an issue that threatened the sustainability of its program,” said John Kostal, Boys Crew head coach. “Faced with the prospect of having to raise tens of thousands of dollars in a short time just to maintain the program’s viability, supporters of the program reached out to their legislative delegation for help. Those legislators responded quickly and effectively, catalyzing meetings between the necessary parties in Avon and Hartford. The result was a workable solution that will allow almost one hundred athletes to continue their rowing careers, and which we hope will serve as the foundation for a long term, mutually beneficial agreement.”