City education officials are looking to expand revenues by getting brand name companies to help underwrite and promote New York City high school team athletics. Sports equipment, food and beverage companies are being especially considered. No billboards or uniform patches though. Brand name companies under the plan being considered would only be buying the right to claim an affiliation with the team. If the plan goes through, it's slated to begin next summer. On the face of it, things seem OK. Perhaps even after more analysis the plan will pass inspection. But, there's a certain purity in high school athletics that a financial affiliation might somehow diminish. Business providing direct financial support to schools for their own financial gain seems wrong. No harm may come from this idea. Many student-athletes may benefit. But, perhaps other measures to raise capital should be considered first before selling out to brand name sellers. Don't play "money ball" before knowing all the rules. The impact on our kids and the adults they'll become must be determined now.
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