NYSPHSAA begins preparing for potential return for High School sports in the fall

LATHAM — Some potentially good news regarding the start of next High School sports season was discussed at this past Tuesday’s New York Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) COVID-19 Task Force Meeting in response to New York governor Andrew Cuomo’s announcement stating that schools may prepare to begin low and moderate risk activities, such as soccer, on September 21st — the first day for potential practices.

The meetings were held to examine and discuss the start of the season, and analyze guidance from State officials. The NYSPHSAA will continue to oversee and review guidance as recommendations and considerations are developed to help guide schools with the implementation of interscholastic athletic programs.

“We are encouraged and appreciative of Governor Cuomo authorizing the start of the fall sports seasons for low and moderate risk sports, and affording high risk sports the opportunity to practice on September 21," said NYSPHSAA Executive Director Dr. Robert Zayas “As the governing body for interscholastic sports in New York State, our primary role will be to work with schools, coaches and parents to ensure recommended COVID-19 guidelines are practiced vigilantly for the safety and wellness of all student-athletes. Over 200,000 students participate in fall high school sports seasons, and yesterday’s announcement was certainly a positive step for all those athletes.”

NYSPHSAA President and Chair of the COVID-19 Task Force, Paul Harrica added: “The leadership of the NYSPHSAA and eleven Sections realize there are challenges to overcome, and questions to be addressed in an effort to provide a beneficial participation experience for student-athletes in the fall. Our primary goal is to get students back into an academic setting, and then work on athletic participation opportunities.”

The NYSPHSAA staff, as well as executive directors from all 11 Sections and the COVID-19 Task Force plan to meet prior to the end of the week to continue discussions. Decisions must be formalized to address the number of required practices student-athletes will need before participating in a scrimmage or contest, the maximum number of contests and games to be permitted during the season, as well as the development of considerations for schools to utilize as interscholastic athletes return to schools and communities throughout New York.