District announces plan for Muscogee County high school sports to start practice again
Muscogee County School District announced Monday that high school sports can return in early July.
MCSD set a goal date of July 6 for fall sports only: cheerleading, cross country, football, softball and volleyball. No organized practices, workouts or open gyms may take place before then, the district said in a press release.
All summer workouts are voluntary and any students who do not feel comfortable returning to practice are encouraged to contact their coach and inform them, the release said.
Masks and facial coverings are optional for athletes, but each participant must bring their own water bottle to practice.
Any equipment used during practices must be sanitized afterwards, the district said.
Schools will reach out to parents and students with more information on parent meetings for each sport. Guidelines will be enforced by school officials, according to MCSD Athletic Director Jeff Battles.
GHSA member institutions began conditioning workouts June 8. Starting Monday, schools are allowed to use sport-specific equipment such as balls and helmets.
Workout groups must remain below 50 people, including coaches, according to the GHSA.
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.
Regarding the school year, MCSD is planning options to be implemented based on local health conditions and government regulations amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The options are:
- Fully reopening schools with in-person instruction for all students as well as social distancing and personal protective equipment guidelines.
- A hybrid model with a mix of in-person instruction at school and remote learning at home.
- Schools remaining closed with all students continuing virtual classes at home like they ended this past school year.
This story was originally published June 22, 2020 at 10:22 AM.
