Lovely Back On Kennedy Track Team

High jumper Ursula Lovely was reinstated on the Kennedy High School track and field team Tuesday after a meeting among Lovely, her parents, track and field Coach Pat Ward and Principal Warren Stephenson.

Lovely, whose jump of 5 feet, 11 inches last season is the second-best in Orange County history, will be allowed to resume competition, Stephenson said.

“I’m looking forward to jumping again,” said Lovely, a junior. “I’m pretty satisfied (and looking forward to) the fact I’ll be back on the team with my friends.”

Ward had said Lovely quit the team at practice last Tuesday after a dispute with him; Lovely had said Ward kicked her off the team. Each said the other was responsible for starting the argument. A series of meetings ensued as Carl and Ursula Lovely, the student’s parents, appealed through the principal.

“We’re pleased with the outcome, and the problem has been resolved,” Stephenson said. “I’m just glad it worked out.”

Ward refused to comment.

Lovely’s mother said: “We came to an agreement and (both sides) made a compromise. Now at least she’ll be able to jump. I just hope it doesn’t affect her too much.”

Lovely, who has not competed in a meet since before spring vacation, said she hopes to be allowed to attend the prestigious Arcadia Invitational on Saturday, though she said the decision rests with Ward. She placed well in that meet as a freshman and sophomore.

“I haven’t jumped in three weeks,” she said. “But I’m a strong person, and competition always pushes me.”

Her mother said, “In essence, it’s like starting all over because she has had a three-week layoff. All we can do is hope for the best.”