What to make from today’s MHSAA COVID-19 announcement
Today the MHSAA announced that effective immediately, all MHSAA interscholastic sports and fine-arts activities competition and practice are suspended through March 29th and until further notice. This suspension applies whether or not a school is open or closed during this timeline.
For many, this is uncharted territory across the Pine Belt. I was told that the season was pushed back two weeks during the swine flu outbreak, but the season had not begun.
I have been waiting for the high school ruling to come out before writing a column with my thoughts on the cancellations and suspensions.
I believe the ruling made by the MHSAA was the correct one. Despite wanting sports to continue like nothing is wrong, I am aware that the COVID-19 has the potential to wreak havoc. I am not in full panic mode, and I believe that the NCAA overreacted harshly by canceling all events including the College World Series in June. There has to be a balance, and I believe the MHSAA got it right, and they deserve to be commended.
I have said since last week we should be cautious, but hopeful that things progress in a positive manner and the MHSAA ruling projects that.
Many, many students are seniors and will likely play their last organized game in a high school uniform. Those players should not have their season abruptly end due to fear. Young athletes are competing for a chance at a scholarship who needs games to be played to help their chances and get an opportunity, this ruling potentially saves that.
The best-case scenario is that teams resume play after March 29th and we are back in business.Â
This could all change in the coming days, but for now, be glad that there is still hope for spring sports.
Athletes, stay focused and in shape because when the season starts back the district push will be in full effect. It will be a sprint to the finish, and I am here for it.
Today, commend the MHSAA and its leaders for making what many believe is the right call.
