What is RIIL? We ask Mr. Russo

On Nov. 10, 2022, this reporter interviewed  the coordinator of RIIL, Mr. Russo. I’m going to be asking him a few questions regarding the program to see what it is about.

Q:  What is RIIL?

A:  RIIL is the Rhode Island Inter Scholastic League. It is the governing body for all high school sports in the state of Rhode Island and started in the 1940s.

Q:  How are students elected to participate?

A:  Each sport or each school conducts tryouts.  There are forty sports total. Each high school is supposed to select members for the team from the various sports.

Q:  How did you get involved with it?

A:  I’ve been coaching as long as I’ve been teaching, both at Pilgrim and Toll Gate.  I am currently the athletic site supervisor.

Q:  Why is RIIL Important?

A:  It’s the governing body of rules and eligibility. It also answers any questions about sports. It helps keep kids active and provides enjoyment for kids outside of school. It also brings a sense of participation for kids. Not every kid is going to get a scholarship and for some this may be the last time to play competitive sports before college.