Gainesville FL- In an 11 to 5 vote, the FHSAA Board of Directors, voted to begin fall sports on August 24th, with an option to opt out of the state series by September 18th.
The vote in favor of Option-1 came after extensive dialogue from board members and advisory committee members including Dr. Jennifer Maynard (Mayo Clinic) of Jacksonville. Maynard mentioned the rising Covid-19 numbers in certain parts of the state while also citing the decline in other areas of the state. Overall her recommendation was to postpone fall sports until Florida’s numbers decreased.
Other board members voiced concern that science was not being factored into the decision making process. Said Mark Schusterman , “We are getting away from the science aspect of it”, “Is that the risk we take to play sports?”
In the end, the amendment entered by Board Member Carlos Ochoa was adopted making way for practice to begin on the 24th. Said Board Member Chalmus Thomas, “We have to make a decision that’ll move this forward. Athletics has been something that pulls communities together. Pulls this country together. Safety is the first priority, but we must move forward.”
Questions still remain about Covid-19 waivers, who will isolate and for how long. Also, there is concern as to the fairness of teams in South Florida, a notable Covid-19 hot spot in the country, who has not held high school conditioning or practices all summer. It is clear that the FHSAA chose to move forward with or without South Florida in the state series by September 18th, which is sure to create a stir with South Florida School and Athletic officials.
In North Florida however, many schools have already started conditioning and will begin preparation for practice in full gear and team participation. It’s time to get ready for High School Sports in Florida.
