Georgia, Alabama high school sports workouts can begin in June, with stipulations
Member schools in the Georgia High School Association and Alabama High School Athletic Association can begin summer workouts in early June.
Alabama schools are cleared to begin as early as June 1, while GHSA member institutions can hold voluntary workouts beginning June 8.
Here are some important points from each governing body’s announcements:
Alabama
Mandatory summer practices are prohibited, but schools may hold voluntary weightlifting, conditioning, individual skill development and workouts.
All coaches, athletes and personnel may be screened each day for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 infection prior to participating in any workout or gathering. Only school personnel, coaches, athletic trainers, and student-athletes should be present during activities. Non-essential personnel should not be present.
When physical distancing cannot be maintained, all individuals — including coaches and staff — are encouraged to wear cloth face coverings.
All weight room surfaces should be cleaned and sanitized before groups arrive and once groups leave the area. There is not a group size limit, as long as physical distancing and all other safety guidelines are maintained.
Multiple sports teams can use the same location and facility simultaneously if physical distancing is practiced and groups/teams do not interchange.
To view the AHSAA’s full three-page set guidelines, click here. For frequently asked questions, visit the governing body’s FAQ page.
Georgia
GHSA member schools can begin conditioning workouts on June 8. The governing body’s plan is restrictive and provides for conditioning only.
Workouts may not include balls or sport-specific equipment. All summer work is voluntary, according to minutes from Thursday’s GHSA Board of Trustees meeting.
The GHSA recommends staff and athletes be screened for COVID-19 prior to each workout. Use of locker rooms and shower facilities is prohibited.
Social distancing should be adhered at all times and masks or face coverings are recommended for the weight room. At least 15 minutes should be scheduled between workout groups to allow for disinfecting the facility.
No competition is allowed between schools, and no visitors are allowed at conditioning sessions.
The full guidance can be read here.
