VHSL Athletics Cleared to Resume in December

The Virginia High School League (VHSL), an overseer of the state for high school sports, gave the OK to schools last week to begin resuming some athletic activities next month.

According to a report from WTOP News, school can get back to high school athletics in December following Gov. Ralph Northam signing an amended executive order that included changes to recreational sports last week.

“This amendment by the Governor clears the way for all of our sports to play,” VHSL executive director Dr. John W. “Billy” Haun said in an issued statement. “We appreciate the time, effort, and input staff received while preparing this document.”

Among the rules: screenings of coaches, officials, staff, and players for COVID-19 are required, WTOP reported. Indoor and outdoor sports can be played if the total number of attendees is less than 250 people. Smaller venues can host events with no more than 50% capacity.

Races and marathons can have as many as 1,000 participants, but staggered start times are required.

Hugging and high-fiving, handshaking, and fist-bumps are not allowed under the VHSL guidelines.

“Adherence to these guidelines will offer a safe reopening for our students, coaches, staff, officials, and communities once we start playing in December. Additionally, we appreciate the close collaboration and guidance from the Governor’s office, the Virginia Department of Health, and the Virginia Department of Education,” Haun said.

Teams conducting out-of-season workouts will continue to abide by Phase 3 Guidelines as established by the VHSL and the Virginia Department of Health, regardless of established adjustments allowed for in-season teams to conduct regular season and postseason events, according to the VHSL press release.

“Keeping our student-athletes safe is critical during this pandemic,” said Gov. Northam, according to the press release. “I know I join many parents in looking forward to the safe return of school sports. VHSL has been a tremendous partner throughout the COVID crisis, and I appreciate the thoughtfulness and diligence they have put in the development of these guidelines for returning to play.”

To read the full report from WTOP News, click here.