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Changes to executive order clear way for VHSL return-to-play in December

Photo by John Berry

One of the more critical pieces of any return-to-play puzzle for the Virginia High School League and public schools was going to be action at the state level — absent that, the VHSL’s hands were pretty much tied.

 

That action arrived Thursday with the fourth amended Executive Order 67 that included changes to Section 12 related to recreational sports. The changes allow for the VHSL’s Championship + 1 schedule to begin playing in December as currently scheduled.

 

“There’s a light at the end of the tunnel and we are running towards it,” said Louisa County athletic director George Stanley. “I’m grateful for the VHSL’s guidance and look forward to seeing our kids and coaches back in action.”

As with everything in the pandemic, it also creates some new questions for athletic departments to address.

“The executive order is encouraging,” said Western Albemarle athletic director Steve Heon. “There’s a lot to digest in guidelines shared, however we are as optimistic as we’ve been that we will be able to compete. We are very much looking forward to having athletes back at the school.”

 

The move sets into motion the VHSL’s Guidelines for Return to Partcipation for school divisions, which was released alongside the announcement. 

 

“Keeping our student athletes safe is critical during this pandemic,” said Governor Ralph Northam in a release from the VHSL. “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 development of these guidelines for returning to play.”

 

The amended executive order is a critical step in the process for getting athletes back on the field in the upcoming months, though likely there are still going to be hurdles to clear at the local school board level for individual divisions. 

 

“This amendment by the Governor clears the way for all of our sports to play,” said VHSL Executive Director Billy Haun. “We appreciate the time, effort, and input staff received while preparing this document. Adherence to these guidelines will offer a safe reopening for our students, coaches, staff, officials, and communities once we start playing in December.”

 

According to the VHSL, the amended Executive Order did not change the number of attendees permitted at a sporting event. The number cannot exceed the lesser of 50 percent of the occupancy load or 250 persons. For sports played outdoors, attendees are limited to 250 people per field.

“This is certainly positive affirmation for high school athletics,” said Charlottesville assistant principal Rodney Redd. “It will allow schools to finalize plans in our attempts to create a suitable athletic environment while simultaneously refining our safety protocols in relation to Covid-19.”

 

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