Illinois High School Association (IHSA) has moved the ‘traditional’ fall football season and moved the season to spring 2021. Anticipation of the news release crashed IHSA’s website this afternoon.
IHSA released the updated information in response to new guidance released by the State of Illinois this afternoon, restricting youth and adult recreational organized sports. Football, Girls Volleyball and Boys Soccer will be moved to a Spring 2021 season.
“This plan, like nearly every aspect of our current lives, remains fluid,” said IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson. “Changes may come, and if they do, we will be agile while putting safety and students first. It was important that we provide a framework today for our student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and officials to begin preparing for the 2020-21 school year.”
Only four sports will be held this fall.
Fall sports from August 10th to October 24th will proceed in a “traditional” season. Sports including boys and girls golf, girls tennis, and cross country and girls volleyball can proceed with 30 ft distance between groups. Competitors must compete within an Illinois COVID Region or within conference.
“I applaud our Board of Directors for choosing a model that allows every student-athlete the opportunity for a modified season,” said Anderson. “Based on our recent conversations, it is our expectation that today’s plan meets all of IDPH’s safety guidelines and will be approved.”
Spring sports start Feb 15th and run to May 1st and will include Football, Boys Soccer, Girls Volleyball, Cross Country, Girls Swimming and Diving, Girls Badminton, Boys Gymnastics and Boys and Girls Water Polo.
Football will be allowed to proceed beginning March 5th to allow for acclimatization. Schools will be limited to a maximum of two contests per week with no tournaments or events of more than three teams. Football will be limited to one game a week.
Spectators and group gatherings will be limited to state requirements. Guidelines for any State Series will be announced at a later date. IHSA says Schools should expect a seven-game regular Football season followed by a regional post season at minimum.
Summer sports will begin May 3rd to June 26th and can begin on May 17th. Summer sports include baseball, softball, track & field, girls soccer, volleyball, lacrosse and boys tennis.
