Away Games Cost Dothan Schools Thousands

Dothan's two public high schools are forking over more money for football this year. Dothan and Northview moved from Region 3 to Region 2 as part of the Alabama High School Athletic Association realignment.

Historically, many road games have been played in places like Auburn, Phenix City, and Smith's Station. Places that are barely 100 miles away. However, because of realignment, the teams are now traveling to Baldwin County, closer to 200 miles from Dothan.

Those that manage the athletic programs claim that translates to almost $6,000 for each road trip. Coaches say, in addition to accommodations, the cost of food is also considerably more.

"Most of the time we try to bargain for $5 per person,: said Dothan High School Athletic Director Kelvis White.  "Do the math--that's five dollars times 130 people and that's just (on the way down). (After the game) you have to feed them again. That's another $4 or $5 per person so the price is significant," White explained.

To help tackle the cost the school board stepped in giving Northview and Dothan High Schools a combined $40,000 which will help get the band to road games.

An earlier than normal rivalry game is also helping pay the increased expenses. The schools got  revenue from a packed house at the game last week between Dothan and Northview. "It was beneficial for both schools. It helps eat some of the cost for some of the things we need like traveling comfortably," said Northview head football coach and Athletic Director LaBrian Stewart.  The team's usually meet near season's end.

Both Northview and Dothan have three games each in Baldwin County for the 2012 football season.