Parents and students at Brazoswood High School in Brazoria County, Texas, are raising the alarm about the poor condition of the school's track and field sand pit. Concerns about athlete safety are mounting as the sand pit is said to be in a desolate state, overrun by grass and filled with holes. Despite these conditions, track practice at the school started last Thursday.
One parent, Edmond Baker, expressed his worries about the site, "It looks like a jungle," he told FOX 26. The condition of the pit seems at odds with the expectations set by the school district's multi-million-dollar facility plans, which included a top-notch track and field. The track, football stadium, and field house have received upgrades, whereas, the sand pit appears to have been left behind.
Baker's daughter, Brooklyn, is a senior at the school, who has showcased her talent by securing the school record in triple jump, competing in the State Championship last year, and earning a college scholarship. According to cell phone footage, the sand pit is in such a bad shape that it's covered in sticker burrs and vegetation, a stark contrast to the manicured facilities surrounding it.
"It’s degrading almost," Brooklyn Baker said to BNN Breaking. "It’s like, you don’t have the ability to practice the way you want to. It’s almost like you’re going to meets, just winging it.” This sentiment echoes her father's concerns who is campaigning for improvements by sharing videos on social media in hopes of sparking change.
While the Brazosport Independent School District has yet to respond to inquiries about the neglected sand pit, parents like Edmond Baker are determined to see the conditions improve for the safety and progress of the students.
