Athletic Update

RETURN TO ATHLETICS PLAN

• As you read through the following recommendations, please keep in mind that the Indiana Department of Education, Indiana High School Athletic Association, Allen County Department of Health or the Governor of Indiana could change our plans as we continue to learn more about COVID-19. We will continue to prioritize safety while we also look forward to the opportunities of getting to work with our student-athletes again. It is imperative that we work as a TEAM for the benefit of everyone involved. We know that some people are very concerned about COVID-19 and others may feel like it is time to return to normal.  We understand that no matter how many precautions we take, there is an inherent risk in picking up the virus. We are trying to minimize that risk for everyone by taking the latest recommendations from state and local health professionals as well as guidance from our state governing bodies. We certainly want to help prevent the spread of this disease and other communicable diseases that might jeopardize the health of those involved and their close contacts.
• Athletes should bring all their forms with them prior to attending team workout sessions.
• If the student answers “Yes” to any of the questions on the Health History form, then that student would be required to get an updated sports physical before they begin official practice with their team this fall. This includes any athlete that may have sustained a concussion during the 2019-20 school year.

• This is the latest information from the Allen County Department of Health on Covid-19 exposure or infection of athletes/coaches. Individuals that test postive will generally be looking at a 14-day self-isolation period. Close contacts of the positive individual have to quarantine for 14 days from the last exposure to the COVID-19 individual. Close contacts may include groups of teammates and coaches that had close exposure (within 6ft.) with that individual.
• Coaches will take attendance at every session. By attending, athletes must be able to answer “No” to all of the BCS COVID-19 symptom checklist questions.

• Each Student is limited to 15 hours per week on site through July 18. This can be increased starting July 20. The current official practice start date for HS fall sports is Monday, Aug. 3rd.
• Practice sessions are open for essential personnel and participants only until at least August 15^th. No parents or spectators should be present.
• No locker rooms will be used until the official start of HS fall sports on Aug. 3rd. Athletes should report to practice dressed and ready for practice and bring all personal items in one bag if possible.
• Students are expected to shower at home and wash all workout clothing immediately after they return home.
• Students should bring their own personal gear and equipment for practice. No shared water bottles, clothing, towels, shoes, etc.
• Students are not required to wear a mask during practice sessions. However, they should bring a mask with them to practice to wear in a situation where social distancing cannot be achieved. (For example, Students will need to wear a mask while in the athletic training room and on vans)
• Shared equipment will be cleaned at the conclusion of each workout session. Coaches will have hand sanitizer available for all practice sessions.
• Coaches will encourage social distancing whenever possible in workout sessions. Assigned groups and/or seating is encouraged to help with contact tracing of a positive COVID-19 case.