ARGYLE — Pecatonica and Argyle schools held an informational forum to discuss the opportunity of a co-op between their girls basketball teams on Wednesday, Jan. 25. The issue was previously discussed during both schools’ board meetings in January. 

The desire for this co-op stemmed from declining program numbers, which are only expected to decrease in the future. Currently, Argyle’s varsity has 11 players, including five freshmen, while Pecatonica’s varsity has 12 players with three freshmen.

“The proposal to co-op for girls basketball was made due to low numbers in both programs with continued low numbers projected for the next several years,” Pecatonica Athletic Director Mark Stateler said. “The proposal was created collaboratively with both districts’ superintendents, principals, and athletic directors.”

The two schools — approximately eight miles apart — already co-op for boys’ golf, cross country, track and field, football and wrestling. 

“Based on the geographical proximity of Argyle and Pecatonica high schools, along with the cooperative-based relationship for five of our current sports programs that span many years, this partnership provides the access to a basketball program while having the least negative impact on both schools’ scholar-athletes through a cooperative sports program,” Stateler said.

If the co-op were approved, it would take effect in the 2023-24 season and last a minimum of four years. Given current individual enrollment — Argyle 81 and Pecatonica 119 — the co-op would have a total enrollment of 200. 

Both the Vikings and Orioles play in the Division 5 Six Rivers East Conference; however, the merge would likely move the co-op to Division 4. In the 2022-23 playoffs, the following teams were moved up from Division 5 to Division 4 based on enrollment: Sheboygan Lutheran (222), Bangor (214), Spencer (214), Iowa-Grant (199) and Randolph (196). Meanwhile, the following teams were moved down from Division 4 to Division 5 based on enrollment: Cashton (194), Glenwood City (188), Cochrane-Fountain City (184), Heritage Christian (179) and Salam (175). 

Argyle would be the host school for the co-op, just as it is for boys golf. This means Argyle would be responsible for scheduling away-game transportation and paying fees for officials and away-game transportation. The remaining fees — tournament entry, initial set of uniforms and coaching stipends — will be split evenly. Pecatonica would be responsible for transportation and fees associated with shuttling athletes to Argyle for practice.

The co-op will have three coaches, with vacancies being posted. Current coaches are encouraged to apply, and each district will have representation on the interview committee.

Those with questions, comments or concerns can contact Pecatonica Athletic Director Mark Stateler or Argyle Athletic Director Heidi Ganshert.