(TRENTON) – Assemblyman John Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland) released the following statement Monday after the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association announced high school state championship events, including football games at the new Meadowlands Stadium and Rutgers Stadium, will be played as planned.
The announcement comes after the state rejected the NJSIAA’s request to charge adults $10 and children and senior citizens $7 for the games. It will be allowed to instead charge $9 and $3.
Burzichelli authored 2007 legislation restricting the NJSIAA’s ability to raise ticket prices and this year asked for a State Commission of Investigation inquiry that found wasteful spending was replete at the NJSIAA:
“I thank acting Education Commissioner Hendricks for a sound decision that proves this law is working. I also thank the Meadowlands and Rutgers for working cooperatively to ensure the games continue at these facilities for the benefit of fans and the student athletes.
“I would have liked to have seen the ticket prices be even lower, but I understand the state’s decision. The lower prices are certainly better than what the NJSIAA initially sought, and with the law working correctly we can look forward to reasonable ticket prices for high school playoff events. That’s a good thing for everyone.
“It’s also clear that this positive outcome for New Jersey sports fans, families and taxpayers alike would not have been possible if it wasn’t for the SCI uncovering the inexcusable wasteful spending at the NJSIAA. I look forward to more reform in the months ahead through my legislation to merge the NJSIAA’s operations with the New Jersey School Boards Association and ensure better protection for New Jersey taxpayers.”