CMS to launch new athletic site for updates, scores

From staff reports:

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has partnered with National Amateur Sports (NAS) to launch a new website for middle and high school athletics. The district-wide site will strengthen the CMS athletic program by providing a single technology hub for all athletic programs and team communications.

Beginning this school year, each middle and high school will have its own site with information about game scores and highlights, photos, rosters, statistics and team standings. Parents are encouraged to access the site and register to receive information from coaches and athletic directors. They may also choose to pay participation fees online. Athletic supporters will also be able to download an app and follow their favorite team on mobile devices.

“We are truly grateful for our partnership with NAS,” said Sue Doran, CMS director of athletics. “This new site will provide support for the district’s athletic program and enhance communications with our parents, students, coaching staff and supporters.”

The site, www.cmsathleticzone.com is operated by NAS. The technology platform will provide a foundation for automating many athletic administrative tasks required by athletic staff and coaches.

The website will also offer a venue to highlight corporate sponsors that support CMS Athletics. CMS does not pay any cost for the new athletic site. In addition, a portion of the revenue from sponsors will support middle school athletics. In 2010, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education eliminated funding for middle school athletics and approved a participation fee for middle and high school student-athletes. Fees are collected on a per-sport basis.

“We are thrilled about this opportunity to support the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools athletic program,” said James Shipley, NAS managing partner. “NAS is committed to supporting the needs of CMS by helping to move the athletics programs forward.