What happens if Muscogee County athlete tests positive for COVID-19 in summer workouts?
Muscogee County School District athletes must sit out of optional summer workouts for two weeks if they test positive for the novel coronavirus, district Athletic Director Jeff Battles told the Ledger-Enquirer Monday.
MCSD fall sports began summer workouts Monday. Up to 50 individuals, including coaches, are allowed in one workout group, per the GHSA’s COVID-19 guidance.
If an athlete or coach tests positive, that school’s athletic director would relay information to the workout group, and report the case to the GHSA, according to Battles. The entire workout group must then sit out of practice for two weeks.
The GHSA asks all member schools to report positive COVID-19 tests of student-athletes and coaches by emailing Don Corr at don.corr@ghsa.net. The governing body said in a June 25 update that names of athletes and coaches should not be included in the report.
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. Masks and facial coverings are optional for athletes, and each participant must bring their own water bottle to practice.
Any equipment used during practices must be sanitized afterward, the district said.
As of last week, GHSA schools are allowed to use sport-specific equipment such as balls. The GHSA recommends staff and athletes be screened for COVID-19 prior to each workout. Use of locker rooms and shower facilities is prohibited.
