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OHSAA looking at spring sports scenarios

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent sports editor

COLUMBUS — Ohio High School Athletic Association officials are looking at ways to have an abbreviated spring sports season, despite the extended closure of schools.

The subject was addressed in a memo sent to superintendents, principals and athletic directors. The memo was issued Tuesday, a day after Governor Mike DeWine extended the statewide school shutdown to May 1.

“We collectively believe we can continue looking at abbreviated schedules for spring sports,” OHSAA Executive Director Jerry Snodgrass said in the memo. “While cancellation remains on the table with all other options, there are many factors that enter into possibilities. Availability of venues for any events, Department of Health guidelines and Governor’s orders are all part of the equation.”

“Under no circumstances will we compromise the safety of student-athletes, coaches, officials, game workers or fans,” Snodgrass also wrote. “Everyone in the schools is award of the extremely fluid situation and we will continue to update you as things change.”

OHSAA is expected to send an adjusted spring sports timeline to member schools sometime this week, and Snodgrass reminded school officials that the mandated no-contact period remains in effect through May 1, with no practices or competitions allowed.

Prior to the order that schools remain closed until May 1, spring sports practices were scheduled to resume on Monday, April 6, and baseball and softball games, tennis matches and track and field meets were set to begin on April 11. 

Ahead of any potential changes, OHSAA softball sectional tournaments are scheduled to begin on May 9, while boys’ tennis sectionals are slated to start on May 11. Baseball sectionals are scheduled to start on May 16, and track and field district tournaments are scheduled for May 18.

POSTED: 04/01/20 at 8:26 am. FILED UNDER: Sports