NYSPHSAA announces indefinite suspension of high-risk Winter Sports, cancellation of Winter State Championships; low-risk sports remain on
**OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE FROM THE NYSPHSAA**
——————————————————————————————————————
LATHAM — The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) announces the cancellation of all 2021 Winter State Championships and the postponement of all high-risk sports until authorization is granted by state officials. The NYSPHSAA Officers rendered these decisions with input from the NYSPHSAA membership and the 11 Section Executive Directors.
“When examining the feasibility of Winter State Championships, it became apparent that travel and overnight accommodations would create a unique challenge for our member schools,” said NYSPHSAA Executive Director Dr. Robert Zayas. “At this time, we must prioritize maximizing student participation without a focus on championship events.”
The Association’s decision to postpone all high-risk sports until authorization is granted was reinforced by the increase in infection and hospitalization rates across the State. The New York State Department of Health has determined the following NYSPHSAA-endorsed sports to be high risk: basketball, boys lacrosse, competitive cheerleading, football, ice hockey, volleyball, and wrestling.
The cancellation of the Winter State Championships (bowling, basketball, boys swimming & diving, competitive cheerleading, gymnastics, indoor track & field, ice hockey, skiing, and wrestling) addresses membership concerns associated with increased travel, hotel accommodations, transportation logistics and the planning for meals. Furthermore, venue capacity limitations and social distancing restrictions make it increasingly difficult to ensure the safety of student-athletes, coaches, and families.
(It will mark the second straight year that there will be no Winter State Championships, due to COVID-19)
“As an educator, I am witnessing first-hand the challenges our member schools are facing each day in addressing this pandemic,” said NYSPHSAA President Julie Bergman. “It is important we continue listening to the concerns being expressed by our membership when making decisions impacting interscholastic athletics.”
As for low-risk (locally, boys swimming), and moderate-risk sports, their regular season continues to be permitted.
The 2021 NYSPHSAA Spring State Championships remain scheduled at this time.
