COVID-19

During the 2020-21 school year, the IHSA's winter season includes basketball, bowling, cheerleading, dance, girls gymnastics, and boys swimming & diving. Click on the tabs above for each sport to see it's COVID-19 mitigation considerations.

Click here to print IHSA Basketball Considerations

 

IHSA 2020-21 BASKETBALL CONSIDERATIONS

This document is intended to provide guidance for schools conducting practices and hosting games during the 2020-21 IHSA Basketball season.  The guidelines explained in this document are intended to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets and potential for illness through safe practices such as social distancing, proper hygiene, and appropriate protective equipment.  This is not an exhaustive list, and school officials may take additional measures based on requirements set forth by their school district and/or local health officials.  Please understand that even with this guidance, there is still risk of transmitting illness at events such as basketball practice and contests.  Additionally, with the changing nature of the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, these guidelines may change.

http://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance 

Modified Season:

• On July 29, the IHSA Board of Directors modified the IHSA Boys' and Girls’ Basketball seasons along with all other sport seasons in response to the circumstances surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The modified boys and girls basketball season is as follows:
  • November 16 – Practice May Begin
  • November 30 – First Contest may be played
  • February 13 –    End of Season  
• Note: Avoid scheduling regular season games after February 6^th to leave the week of February 8-13 open for a post season event
• If your school had difficulty meeting the 6 contest requirement as outlined in IHSA By-laws as a result of circumstances surrounding the pandemic, you may contact IHSA Executive Director, Craig Anderson (canderson@ihsa.org), to inquire about a waiver.

• Currently, State Series events are “To Be Determined” to ensure that the events can be conducted safely and in accordance with the Governor’s Restore Illinois Guidelines.  The IHSA will make every effort to conduct some form of State Series event and will announce decisions made by the IHSA Board of Directors related to this as they become available.  That said, schools are encouraged to avoid scheduling regular season games after February 6^th to leave the week of February 8-13 open for a post season event.
• Currently, live competition must only occur with schools in your IDPH COVID-19 region and conference schools:  https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781
• Basketball Teams still must follow IHSA By-laws 5.040 and 5.190 Contest Limitations https://www.ihsa.org/documents/forms/current/IHSA_Section5.pdf
  

Requirements and Considerations

• All guidelines of IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 must be adhered to. 

Social distancing between individuals, not on the court, of at least 6 feet must be maintained at all times.  Handshakes, fist bumps, hugging, etc. are not permissible at anytime.

Gym Capacity - Student participants, coaches, timers, paid/volunteer game officials, and media are considered a group of 50 people.

Spectators – Please see the Winter Sports Guidelines Cover page.

• • • Managers should work with their local health departments to consider whether spectators will be allowed or not
    • If allowed, spectators must maintain social distance throughout the gym.
    • Spectators must wear masks.

Tournaments at one Host Site –

• Multiple team events can be scheduled.
• Time for cleaning and sanitation of all used spaces and equipment must occur between games. 
• Participating teams must also exit a facility before participating teams in a following game can enter a facility.
• All games must be played between schools from the same conference or COVID region.
• Indoor gatherings may not exceed 50 individuals.  This total includes players, coaches, game officials, scorer’s table personnel, security/game management, cheerleaders, and fans.
  • There are no exceptions to this gathering size.
• Team benches should be placed on the same side of the floor as the scorer’s table, if possible.  If fans are allowed to attend any game, they should be seated opposite the bench area at least 30’ from the playing floor.  If fans are allowed but, because of the layout of the facility, cannot be seated opposite the bench area, they shall be at least 30’ away from the bench area.
• Team benches shall be spaced out to allow for appropriate distance between players and coaches (minimum of 6’ between individuals).  This may require benches to extend into the bleachers.  Benches may extend beyond the baseline if space allows.
• Any basketball used as a part of warm-ups or game play must be cleaned and sanitized between uses. 
  • Game balls should not be used as a part of any warm-up. 
  • All balls should be cleaned and sanitized in a manner consistent with guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

• All spaces and equipment (gym, chairs, scorer’s table, locker rooms, bleachers) must be cleaned and sanitized between games. 
  • Spaces should be cleaned and sanitized in a manner consistent with all local and national health guidelines.
• All individuals must wear masks.

Competition:  Per IDPH guidelines, competition is limited to intra-conference or intra-EMS-region (See IDPH COVID EMS-Region Map link below in resources).   

Transportation - For transportation to and from extracurricular events, schools may adhere to the same guidance provided by ISBE regarding transporting students to and from school.    

Practices - Practices are solely intra-team.

Equipment and Accessories

1. Basketball
   • • • Prior to a contest, it is recommended that two (2) game balls should be sanitized according to instructions from the ball manufacturer, set aside, and placed on top of the scorer’s table. The game balls must not be used for warm-ups.
       • The host school should switch balls during full time-outs and between quarters and sanitize the ball taken out of play.  If only one ball is available, the ball should be sanitized between quarters and during full time-outs.
       • Sanitizer should be provided by the host team at the scorer’s table.
       • Face coverings are required for all players, coaches, and team personnel.
     • Players should bring multiple masks to replace sweat soaked masks through games and practices.
     • Any mask modification requests, due to a documented medical condition, must come through an Accommodation Request through the IHSA School Center.
2. Officials Table (2-1-3)
   • • The host should sanitize the table before the game and at half time.
     • Place officials table sufficiently away from the sideline (if possible, at least 6’) to allow for additional space for substitutes.
     • Limit seats at the table to essential personnel which includes home team scorer and timer with a recommend distance of 6 feet or greater between individuals. Only other personnel that can be distanced at least 6’ apart (visiting scorer, statisticians, media, etc.) should be allowed at the officials table.  However, these other personnel are not considered essential personnel, and an alternate location for them should be considered if spacing guidelines can’t be met at the official’s table. 
     • Table personnel are required to wear face covering requirements.
     • Game venues should have sanitation materials (disinfecting wipes, sprays, hand sanitizer, etc.) in prime locations for meet personnel to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and equipment
       
       
       3. Team Benches (1-13-1)

Social distancing should be practiced. Below are some considerations.

3. • Consider limiting the number of bench personnel to observe social distancing of 6 feet or greater.  
   • If possible, place team benches opposite the spectator seating, if spectators are allowed.
   • Additional chairs or rows may be added to allow bench personnel to observe social distancing of 6 feet or greater between bench personnel (coaches and players).
   • Create separation between the team bench and spectator seating behind the bench. (if applicable)
   • Encourage substitutes to maintain social distancing from other substitutes after checking in with the official scorer.
   • Players not in game must wear a mask and MUST be separated by 6 feet in bench area.
   • During full time outs, players and coaches should maintain social distance.
   • During 30 second time outs, only those players in the game and coaches may stand and be involved in the huddle, maintaining appropriate social distance. (NOTE:  a manager distributing water bottles may also stand to fulfill his/her role.  He/she must maintain social distance during this time.
     
     4. During play

Due to players wearing masks during contests, a media time-out will be taken

each quarter at the first dead ball under the 5-minute mark to give players an

opportunity to catch their breath.

General Practice Requirements and Considerations for Coaches:

• Communicate practice and all competition guidelines in a clear manner to student participants and their parents. 
• For practices, consider conducting workouts in “pods” of same students who are always training and rotating together.  This will ensure more limited exposure if someone develops an infection. 
• Keep accurate records of those athletes and staff who attend each practice in case contact tracing is needed. 
• Always have a plan to maintain social distancing amongst your team and coaching staff. 
• Require athletes to arrive at the competition venue already in competitive attire.  If locker rooms must be used, ensure athletes can maintain social distancing.   
• Educate your student athletes on proper hand washing and sanitation.
• Coaches must wear masks/face coverings at all practices and competitions. 

Requirements and Consideration for Officials:

Pregame Protocol

•  Limit attendees to the referee and the head coach from each team with each

coach standing on the center circle on each side of the division line.

• All individuals maintain a social distance of 6 feet or greater at the center circle. 
• Suspend handshakes prior to and following the Pregame Conference.

• Officials must wear a face covering at all times. 
  • Long-sleeved shirts are permissible.
  • Officials should not wear jackets during pre-game court/player observation.
    • • Traditional or electronic whistles may be used.  If a traditional whistle is used, officials should attach a plain black cover to the whistle to limit the spread of respiratory droplets.  If an electronic whistle is used, officials should use one whose tone will carry inside.
  • Gloves may be worn.

Other Considerations:

Throw-in

• Officials shall stand 6 feet or greater away from player making the throw-in and bounce the ball to that player on any throw-in.

Free Throw Administration

• The lead official shall stand on the end line and bounce the ball to the player making the try.           

Jump Ball

• Eliminate the jump ball and award the ball to the visiting team for the first possession of the game.  The alternating possession arrow will then be set after the initial throw-in.
• To start an overtime period or for a game being played on a neutral site, use a coin toss to determine which team is awarded the ball to start the game (neutral site contest) or overtime.  For overtime contests, the referee shall have the head coaches come to the center circle and allow the visiting team coach to make the call on the flip.  On the flip, the referee shall indicate both sides of the coin before flipping, ask for the visiting team’s choice before flipping, and catch the coin in the air and open the palm of the hand which caught the coin to display which side is shown.  If the coach calling the flip is correct, his/her team shall begin the game/overtime period with the basketball.  If the coach calling the flip is incorrect, the opposing team will begin the game/overtime period with the ball.
• The throw-in to begin a game or overtime period shall be made at the division line opposite the scorer’s table.

General Requirements and Considerations for Student Athletes:

• Student athletes should be responsible for their own supplies such as a water bottle.
• Students should wear their own appropriate workout clothing and not share clothing with anyone.  All equipment and clothing should be washed immediately upon returning home.   
• Hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer should be frequent at all contests and practices.

• Athletes should tell coaches immediately when they are not feeling well.
• Face coverings are always required.
  • • Players should bring multiple masks to replace sweat soaked masks throughout games and practices.
    • Any mask modification requests, due to a documented medical condition, must come through an Accommodation Request through the IHSA School Center.

General Requirements and Considerations for Parents:

• Make sure your child and immediate household members are free from illness before participating in practice and competition (if there is any doubt, stay home).
• Provide personal items for your child and clearly label them.

• Help make sure that your child is washing/cleaning clothing and personal items

after each use.   

• Know facility/venue limitations on capacity/attendance prior to attending a meet.  Always maintain social distance and wear a face covering while in attendance at an event.

Transportation:                                                                                                                          

• Follow ISBE Guidelines: For transportation to and from extracurricular events, schools may adhere to the same guidance provided by ISBE regarding transporting students to and from school.   

Eating and Drinking:

• Ask athletes to bring their own water and have their own plan for retrieving their water after competition.  
• Ensure 6-foot distance whenever student athletes are eating or drinking.
• Replace face coverings immediately after eating or drinking.

Questions:
Questions should be addressed to Beth Sauser (basuser@ihsa.org) or Kurt Gibson (kgibson@ihsa.org).

Resources:

IHSA Return to Activities Guidelines 2.0 - https://www.ihsa.org/documents/CovidGuidelines/Return%20to%20Activities%202.0.pdf

IDPH Sport Safety Guidance -

http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance  

IDPH COVID-19 EMS-Regions Map -

https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781  

 

Click here to print IHSA Bowling Considerations

 

IHSA 2020-21 BOWLING CONSIDERATIONS
 

This document is intended to provide guidance for schools conducting practices and hosting meets during the 2020-21 IHSA Boys and Girls Bowling season.  The guidelines explained in this document are intended to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets and potential for illness through safe practices such as social distancing, proper hygiene, and appropriate protective equipment.  This is not an exhaustive list, and school officials may take additional measures based on requirements set forth by their school district and/or local health officials.  Please understand that even with this guidance, there is still risk of transmitting illness at events such as bowling events.  Additionally, with the changing nature of the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, these guidelines may change.

Modified Season:

• On July 29, the IHSA Board of Directors modified the IHSA Boys and Girls Bowling season along with all other sport seasons in response to the circumstances surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The modified girls’ and boys’ bowling seasons are as follows:
  • November 16 – Practice May Begin
  • November 30– First Contest May be Held
  • February 8- Keep this week open
  • February 12/13 – End of Season Event for Boys and Girls Bowling
• Currently, State Series events are To Be Determined in order to ensure that the events can be conducted safely and in accordance with the Governor’s Restore Illinois Guidelines.  The IHSA will make every effort to conduct some form of State Series event and will announce decisions related to this as they become available. 
• It is recommended to keep the above mentioned state series dates open on your schedules for the purpose of potential State Series events.
• Currently, live competition must only occur with schools in your IDPH COVID-19 region and conference schools:  https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781
• If a State Series is conducted and your school had difficulty meeting the 6-contest requirement as outlined in IHSA By-laws as a result of circumstances surrounding the pandemic, please contact IHSA Executive Director, Craig Anderson (canderson@ihsa.org) to inquire about a waiver.   
• Bowling Teams still must follow IHSA By-Laws 5.050 and 5.200 Contest Limitations:

https://www.ihsa.org/documents/forms/current/IHSA_Section5.pdf

    

General Requirements and Considerations:

• All guidelines of IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 must be adhered to. 
• Social distancing between individuals of at least 6 feet must be maintained at all times.  Handshakes, fist bumps, hugging, etc. are not permissible.
• Student participants, coaches, and volunteers are restricted to a combined total of 50 per group.  A group is defined as an individual group of 50 (bowlers, coaches, and volunteers). 
• Hosts can have multiple groups at an event as long as the groups are completely spaced out so that they don’t intermingle or wait in queue in common areas.
• Small events are most effective in maintaining fewer competitors, school personnel, volunteers, and spectators.  Small events make it easier to space bowlers out at the start and finish of a competition to ensure for appropriate social distancing.  Small meets must adhere to the event capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 as well as those outlined in this document. 
• If schools have scheduled large tournaments or invitationals, hosts must ensure that ALL event attendees are held to the capacity guidelines outlined in the DCEO document (i.e. combined total of no more than 50 student participants, coaches, and officials per group).

Requirements and Considerations for Managers. 

• Prior to the Event
  • Consider either emailing event information one week in advance to participating schools or host a virtual coaches meeting in lieu of a traditional in-person one.
  • Centers are allowed to operate at the lessor of 200 bowlers or 50% of capacity. https://dceocovid19resources.com/assets/Restore-Illinois/businessguidelines4/bowling.pdf
  • Coaches are responsible for ensuring social distancing is maintained between players. This means additional spacing between players while playing, chatting, or changing drills so that players remain spaced out, and no congregating of players while waiting to bowl.
• Arrival/Warm-Up
  • Establish firm arrival times for participants no earlier than 45 minutes prior to a participant’s/school’s first starting time.  Participants who arrive early must stay in their vehicle until the appointed entry time.
  • Upon entry, participants should report directly to their assigned pair of lanes.
  • Participants should maintain social distance during warm-up times.
• Starting
  • Managers should only use electronic scoring available, unless otherwise not available
  • Any tournament volunteers/managers must wear a mask.
  • Participants shall maintain social distancing at all times.
• Spectators
  • If competition hosts allow spectators, they must always wear masks and maintain 6-feet social distancing throughout the entire event as outlined above and in the IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 Guidelines and IDPH guidance and are counted as part of the 50 individuals throughout the entire event as outlined above and in the IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 Guidelines and IDPH guidance. NOTE: Some sites may not permit spectators.

• Hand sanitizer and/or sanitizing wipes – Players, coaches, and volunteers are encouraged to provide their own hand sanitizer and/or sanitizing wipes. It is recommended to use hand sanitizer before and after each game and when going out to, and coming in from, different areas throughout the house. Additionally, emphasize to all to avoid touching their face.

• Media – All local social distancing, mask wearing, and hygiene guidelines for spectators should be followed by media members planning to attend meets. Media members should contact host school administrators prior to arriving.    
• Rules conferences – Encourage limiting the number of individuals in a rules interpretation conference to those who must be in close proximity for these discussions. Coaches/ volunteers must wear a mask.
• Team handshakes – Teams and individuals shall NOT exchange handshakes before, during, or following the practice or meet.
• Press area – Local schools shall determine which personnel should be in the designated press area considering IDPH guidelines.

• Scoring
  • Consider using online scoring platforms in lieu of paper recaps. 
  • Once the round is submitted and scores are submitted, participants must return to their car/team bus.
• Awards
  • Awards ceremonies should not be held.
  • Awards can be sent via mail following the event.

Requirements and Considerations for Coaches:

• Communicate practice and all competition guidelines in a clear manner to student participants and their parents. 
• For practices, consider conducting workouts in “pods” of same students who are always training and rotating together.  This will ensure more limited exposure if someone develops an infection. 
• Keep accurate records of those athletes and staff who attend each practice in case contact tracing is needed. 
• Always have a plan to maintain social distancing amongst your team and coaching staff. 
• Always require use of facial coverings.
• Require athletes to arrive at the competition venue already in competitive attire.  If locker rooms must be used, ensure athletes can maintain social distancing. 
• It is recommended to always have sanitation materials available (i.e. hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, etc.) for the team and coaching staff.
• Coaches must wear face coverings at all times.
• Educate your student athletes on proper hand washing and sanitation.  

Coaching

• Group coaching at practices should take place only where full social distancing is possible. Group coaching should be limited to small groups.
• Players/Coaches should be assigned specific practice times.  Position the players at well-spaced stations.

Requirements and Consideration for Tournament Management Officials:

• Bring personal hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently.
• Do not share equipment.
• Follow social distancing guidelines (refer to meet manager section for pre-meet coaches meeting and posting of results).
  • Communication with coaches, participants, meet personnel, or spectators must be done at the appropriate social distance. 
• Refrain from shaking hands.
• Always wear a face covering.

Requirements and Considerations for Participants:

• All participants must refrain from touching other participants in any way, unless they are from the same household, including shaking hands prior to and following the round.
• Participants must not touch, handle, or share each other’s equipment.
• Participants should wash hands as frequently as possible and bring hand sanitizer to use during the round.
• Athletes should tell coaches immediately when they are not feeling well.
• Schools hosting events should consider having sanitizer and disinfectant in the pit area.
• Masks – Players must wear masks at all times. There is no prohibition on the color of the mask.
  • Any mask modification requests, due to a documented medical condition, must come through an Accommodation Request through the IHSA School Center.
• Hand sanitizer and/or sanitizing wipes – Players are encouraged to provide their own hand sanitizer and/or sanitizing wipes, but coaches must have sanitizer available at practices and competitions.
• It is recommended to use hand sanitizer before and after each game and when going out to, and coming in from, different areas of the house. Additionally, emphasize to all to avoid touching their face.

Requirements and Considerations for Parents:

• Make sure your child and immediate household members are free from illness before participating in practice and competition (if there is any doubt, stay home).
• Provide personal items for your child and clearly label them.
• Help make sure that your child is washing/cleaning clothing and personal items after each use.
• Know facility/venue limitations on capacity/attendance prior to attending an event.  Always maintain social distance and wear a face covering while in attendance at an event.

Hydration:

· All students shall bring their own water bottle. Water bottles must not be shared.

· Hydration stations (water cows, water trough, water fountains, etc.) should NOT be utilized.

Transportation:

• For transportation to and from extracurricular events, schools may adhere to the same guidance provided by ISBE regarding transporting students to and from school.   

Eating and drinking:

• Ensure 6 foot distance whenever athletes are eating or drinking.
• Replace face coverings immediately after eating or drinking.

Resources:

IHSA RETURN TO ACTIVITIES 2.0: https://www.ihsa.org/documents/CovidGuidelines/Return%20to%20Activities%202.0.pdf

GUIDANCE: http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance

 IDPH COVID-19 REGION MAPS: https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781

DCEO Bowling Guidelines: https://dceocovid19resources.com/assets/Restore-Illinois/businessguidelines4/bowling.pdf

Click here to print IHSA Cheerleading Considerations

 

IHSA COVID Competitive Cheer Guidelines 2020-21

This document is intended to provide guidance for schools conducting competitive practices, hosting competitions live or virtual asynchronous and synchronous during the 2020-2021 IHSA competitive Cheerleading season. The guidelines explained in this document are intended to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets and potential for illness through safe practices such as social distancing, proper hygiene, and appropriate protective equipment.  This is not an exhaustive list, and school officials may take additional measures based on requirements set forth by their school district and/or local health officials.  Please understand that even with this guidance, there is still risk of transmitting illness at events such as cheer practices and competitions. Additionally, with the changing nature of the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, these guidelines may change. http://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance 

Modified Season:

• On July 29, the IHSA Board of Directors modified the IHSA Competitive Cheer season along with all other sport seasons in response to the circumstances surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The modified IHSA Competitive Cheer season is as follows:
  • November 16 Competitive Cheer Tryouts and Practice May Begin
  • November 30 – First Contest May be Held
  • January 11 – List of Participants Due to IHSA
  • January 30^th – *Sectionals
  • February 5^th & 6^th – *State Final
  • February 13 – End of Season (with or without a State Series)
• Currently, State Series events are *“To Be Determined” to ensure that the events can be conducted safely and in accordance with the Governor’s Restore Illinois Guidelines.  The IHSA will make every effort to conduct some form of State Series event and will announce decisions made by the IHSA Board of Directors related to this as they become available. 
• It is recommended to keep the current scheduled state series dates open for the purpose of potential State Series Events (Jan. 30, Feb. 5 & 6). 
• The competitive cheerleading menu page on IHSA.org will feature additional specific post season contest information if applicable.  Additionally, addendums to the terms and conditions will be posted on that site as well. 
• Prior to a state series there will be dedicated training time available for all coaches, site managers and officials to review COVID-19 protocols and adjustments.
• Currently, per IDPH guidelines, live competition is limited to schools in IDPH COVID-19 health regions/intra-EMS-regions and conference schools. 

https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781

• Competitive Cheer Teams still must follow IHSA By-law 5.342 Contest Limitations https://www.ihsa.org/documents/forms/current/IHSA_Section5.pdf and are limited to participating in no more than six (6) contest dates (both virtual and in-person count toward the six) exclusive of the State Series.

For IHSA Competitive Cheer Low Risk Classification, the following Sideline Spirit Mitigations must be followed for Sideline and Competitive Cheer:

• Cheerleader to Cheerleader physical contact is prohibited.
• Pyramids/Tossed, Partner Stunts, and Lifts are prohibited.
• Participants should be appropriately spaced to ensure proper social distancing, 6-ft apart.
• Masks must be worn.
• If poms, signs, flags are used, they cannot be shared.

In order to comply with the IDPH Mitigation plan for Cheer to be Low Risk, the current IHSA scoresheet can be used omitting Pyramids/Tosses and Partner Stunts for a total of 55 possible points which can then be transferred to 100% - Raw Score   /55 =_____. https://www.ihsa.org/documents/chc/Scoresheet.pdf

Routines will consist of the typical 3-minute performance time with 2-minutes allowed for music.

There will be no penalties for masks or social distancing.  Like uniforms, face coverings must be school approved.

Additionally, schools can also conduct a Game Day division that would include a band chant, situational sideline, crowd leading cheer and fight song – following Varsity/UCA guidelines https://www.varsity.com/uca/school/competitions/game-day/ – excluding participant contact-stunts) for invitational contests. Please NOTE:  Philosophy of Game Day - Game Day is intended for schools that currently do not compete but will have a modified sideline SPIRIT season due to COVID-19. 

Requirements and Considerations

In-Person (Live Event)

General Guidelines

• All guidelines of IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 must be followed. 
• Local school districts COVID-19 policies and procedures may be followed.
• Competition Capacity - Cheerleaders, coaches, judges, competition personnel, athletics trainer(s), contest managers, and media are restricted to a combined total of 50 people inside of a given area (i.e. gymnasiums, field houses, all-purpose rooms).
• Spectators - If competition hosts allow spectators, they must always wear masks and maintain 6-feet social distancing throughout the entire event as outlined above and in the IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 Guidelines and IDPH guidance and are counted as part of the allowed 50 individuals throughout the entire event as outlined above and in the IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 Guidelines and IDPH guidance. NOTE:  Some sites may not permit spectators.   
• Social distancing between individuals of at least 6 feet must always be maintained.    Handshakes, hugs, fist bumps, etc. are prohibited.
• Small events are most effective in maintaining fewer competitors, school personnel, officials, and spectators.  Smaller invitational events make it easier to space out competitors to ensure for appropriate social distancing.  Small contests must adhere to the event capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4, IDPH as well as those outlined in this document.
• Hosts can have multiple waves at an invitational provided the waves are completely spaced out so that they do not intermingle or wait in common areas.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and meet equipment.
• Have sanitation materials (disinfecting wipes, sprays, hand sanitizer, etc.) in prime locations for attendees.

General Practice Requirements and Considerations for Coaches:

• Coaches must wear face coverings at all practices and competitions.
• Always require use of facial coverings on students.
• Communicate practice and all competition guidelines and COVID-19 safety protocols in a clear manner to student participants and their parents. 
• For live practices, consider conducting workouts in “pods” of same students who are always training and rotating together.  This will ensure more limited exposure if someone develops an infection. 
• Keep accurate records of those athletes and staff who attend each practice in case contact tracing is needed. 
• Always have a plan to maintain social distancing amongst the team and coaching staff. 
• Educate student athletes on proper hygiene techniques:  hand washing and sanitation.
• Following IDPH guidance, coaches can spot tumbling.    
• If possible, electronic, or virtual team meetings are encouraged.

Requirements and Considerations for Host Managers:

Prior to the Event

• Host can use Tourney wire – an online scoring platform:   https://www.tourneywire.com/cheer-index.php
• Email all event information in advance to participating schools or host virtual coaches’ meetings to disseminate contest information in lieu of traditional in-person coaches’ meeting.
  • Electronic or virtual meetings are encouraged if possible.
  • If live meetings occur, utilize methods to keep coaches socially distanced during live coaches’ meetings.  Eliminate or minimize the use of handouts/paper.
  • Face coverings for all contest personnel, contest officials and coaches are required at live coaches’ meetings.   
  • If a live meeting is being conducted, coaches/directors must still have the option to attend virtually if they are not comfortable meeting in person.    

Arrival/Warm-Up

• Establish firm arrival times for participants.  Participants who arrive early must stay in their vehicle until the appointed time.  Hosts may designate a home room waiting area for participants, so student athletes do not have to wait on the bus longer than necessary and are not congregating in the open areas.
• Warm-up Spaces - For invitationals, auxiliary spaces (i.e. gymnasiums, field houses, all-purpose rooms, etc.) can be used as holding areas for student participants, meet personnel, spectators, etc. as long as all auxiliary spaces allow for social distancing and are kept at 50 people or less.

Competition

• Competition Rotation - Once one group of student-athletes, coaches, competition personnel, spectators, and media for a combined total of 50 people completely vacate a space a new group of 50 can occupy that area.  Time schedules should be spaced to reflect the necessary time to take the appropriate COVID-19 sanitation procedures in these areas.                                                                                                                                             
• Awards - Live awards ceremonies should not be conducted.  Consider using an online platform for leader boards, results, and awards announcements.            
• Streaming – Competitions can be streamed.  Schools may use their preferred streaming service.  It is the responsibility of the host and the competing schools to secure all appropriate copyrights necessary for streaming and performing.  The Association is not responsible for copyright.  For additional information on streaming contact the NFHS Network - https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/ - customersupport@nfhsnetwork.com or mkoski@nfhsnetwork.com

Requirements and Considerations for Coaches at Events:        

• Coaches are responsible for educating all attendees and ensuring social distancing is maintained between student athletes. This means additional spacing between student athletes while competing, coaching, or changing locations so that student athletes remain spaced out, and no congregating of student athletes occur.  Always have a plan to maintain social distancing amongst the team and coaching staff. 
• Require student athletes to arrive at the competition venue already in competitive attire. 

Requirements and Consideration for Officials:

• Communicate the format and protocols in the officials’ contracts.                           

• Adjustments to the number of cheer officials may be made due to the size of the competition and the COVID-19 mitigation protocols (i.e.:  Number of tech. officials due to no stunting, tosses, pyramids).
• Face coverings are always required.
• Officials should be spaced 6-feet apart.
• Bring personal hand sanitizer and wash hands frequently.  Refrain from shaking hands. 
• Do not share equipment.
• Follow social distancing guidelines.
  • Communication with coaches, participants, invitational managers, or other judges must be done at the appropriate social distance.                    

Transportation:                                                                                                                          

• Follow ISBE Guidelines.  For transportation to events, schools must consider social distancing requirements. Social distancing (as required by state or local health department) will need to be maintained on all transportation.  If a team must return to the bus, there needs to be distancing for possible prolonged periods.  Masks must always be worn while on the bus.

Eating and Drinking:

• Ask student athletes to bring their own water and have their own plan for retrieving water after competition.  
• Ensure 6-feet of distance whenever student athletes are eating or drinking.
• Replace face coverings immediately after eating or drinking.                                                          

Virtual Contest - Synchronous and Asynchronous

General Virtual Guidelines

Synchronous - Virtual competition occurring at the same time (like a live event where teams log in to perform at a specified time). 

Asynchronous - Virtual competitions where teams performances are pre-recorded and submitted at a specified time. 

Schools can elect to conduct and/or compete in synchronous and asynchronous virtual competitions. Virtual contests can be conducted with school from across the state. 

Hosts can determine the platforms and technology standards that they wish to conduct their competition.  Some online platforms may include but are not limited to:  NFHS Network, Zoom, Google Meet, Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, Jitsi, 8x8, Big Marker, and/or YouTube, Google Drive, Dropbox etc.… to name a few.  Hybrids of both synchronous and asynchronous competitions may also occur.     

Host schools can utilize panels of cheer officials/judges as they deem necessary for their specific platform.  Multiple panels can be used virtually based on the size of the competition.  

Below is a sample of an asynchronous prerecorded contest:

Individual contest hosts will establish a timeline for their invitational. Hosts are encouraged to establish a “keyword” for their contest. Keywords may be used at beginning and end of the video to ensure a “live” performance.  Below is a sample.

Sample Virtual Asynchronous Timeline:  Note:  Dependent on the Size of the Competition

• Friday 3:00pm - Contest hosts email competing teams a keyword. 
• Friday 3:30pm - 5:30pm Teams must hold the key word on the screen and then immediately record their routine.
• Friday 5:30pm - All routines submitted into a Google Drive folder or alternative platform.
• Saturday 9:00am - Judges will begin scoring virtually (from their homes or from the host school (masked and socially distanced if from the host school site).

• Saturday - Competition host can combine all videos into a YouTube Live or Zoom Link platform.  All competition videos can be shown through a school’s choice of platform:  YouTube Live, Zoom, NFHS Network, etc.…
• Invite hosts can utilize announcers and add additional audience features.
• 5:00pm – Virtually announce awards.

Sample Virtual Synchronous Timeline:  Note:  Dependent on the Size of the Competition

• Friday 3:00pm - Contest host sends out competition times and links for live synchronous performances.  
• Saturday 9:00am - Judges will begin scoring virtually (from their homes or from the host school, masked and socially distanced if from the host school site).
• Saturday - Competition host can combine all videos into a YouTube Live or Zoom Link platform to publish for all competing schools. Designate a time where all competition videos can be shown through a school’s choice of platform:  YouTube Live, Zoom, Big Marker, NFHS Network, etc.…

• Invite hosts can utilize announcers and add additional audience features.
• 5:00pm – Virtually announce awards.

NOTE:  Flexibility and contingency plans need to be made to deal with technology issues. 

Virtual Competition Guidelines – Suggested Standards and Norms

• Filming should be on an iPhone, iPad, or basic video camera. 
• No professional cameras or operators can be used.  
• Video must be taken full front from a team’s high school gym with appropriate matting.
• No special lighting can be used.  Full house lighting must be used.
• Video should be taken elevated so formations can be visible to the judges.
• Video should not be edited, cut, or altered in any way.  Multiple videos and camera angles cannot be edited together.  No sound editing can occur.   Entries must be one unedited recording from start to finish.
• No special effects can be added No side or back angles should be on the videotape.
• No fans or piped in fan cheers can be added. 
• Fans/spectators cannot be present during the recording.
• Keyword must be visible at beginning and end of the video.

Virtual Officiating/Judging

• Tourney wire online scoring platform can be used. https://www.tourneywire.com/cheer-index.php                                                              
• Judges can score from home or the contest site.  Contest managers need to clearly communicate the expectations to the judges via their contract.
• Judges will access the videos from the platform indicated by the competition host.
• If the judges officiate virtually (remotely/from home), the head officials should conduct a virtual meeting to review the contest protocols with the host and contest officials.  Officials are expected to virtually collaborate on scores and deductions as a team - as typically done at contests.
• It is at the discretion of local competition management/rules if judges should only watch a video once (*This includes the tech judge(s).
• It is recommended that contest hosts give officials at least 24 hours to critique and score the virtual contest from home before announcing their awards if officials will not be gathering to score at the host school.
• In the event the virtual contest is “live scored”, it is recommended that an appropriate time allotment shall be given between each “live scoring” virtual performance.  
• Contest hosts can collaborate with the head judge to confirm contest results.  
• Judges must not share routine video.

General Requirements and Considerations for Student Athletes:

• Student athletes should be responsible for their own supplies such as a water bottle.
• Students should wear their own appropriate practice clothing and not share clothing or uniforms with anyone.  All equipment and attire should be washed immediately upon returning home. 

• Hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer should be frequent at all practices and competitions.
• Athletes should tell coaches immediately when they are not feeling well.
• Face coverings are always required. 

General Requirements and Considerations for Parents:

• Make sure student athletes and immediate household members are free from illness before participating in practice and competition (if there is any doubt, stay home).
• Provide clearly labeled personal items for student athletes.
• Help make sure that the student athlete is washing/cleaning clothing and personal items after each use. 
• Know facility/venue limitations on capacity/attendance prior to attending a competition.  Always maintain social distance and wear a face covering while in attendance at an event.

Questions:

• Questions may be addressed to IHSA Cheer Administrator, Susie Knoblauch (sknoblauch@ihsa.org).

Resources:

IDPH Sport Safety Guidance - http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance

IDPH COVID-19 EMS-Regions Map - https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781

IHSA COVID-19 Information - https://www.ihsa.org/Resources/COVID-19

USA Cheer - https://www.usacheer.org/return-guidelines

Game Day - https://www.varsity.com/school/game-day/  - Carrie Nichols - Varsity Spirit Cheer-Illinois State Director - 636.357.3049 - cnichols@varsity.com

Understanding Copyright and Compliance Course - https://www.nfhslearn.com/courses/understanding-copyright-and-compliance

Spectators – Please see the IHSA Winter Sports Guidelines. 

Click here to print IHSA Dance Considerations

 

IHSA 2020-21 COMPETITIVE DANCE CONSIDERATIONS

This document is intended to provide guidance for schools conducting competitive practices, hosting invitationals and virtual competitions during the 2020-2021 IHSA Competitive Dance season.  The guidelines explained in this document are intended to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets and potential for illness through safe practices such as social distancing, proper hygiene, and appropriate protective equipment.  This is not an exhaustive list, and school officials may take additional measures based on requirements set forth by their school district and/or local health officials.  Please understand that even with this guidance, there is still risk of transmitting illness at events such as dance practices and competitions. Additionally, with the changing nature of the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, these guidelines may change.

Modified Season:

• On July 29, the IHSA Board of Directors modified the IHSA Competitive Dance season along with all other sport seasons in response to the circumstances surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The modified competitive dance season is as follows:
  • November 16 – Competitive Dance Tryouts May Take Place and Practice May Begin
  • November 30 – First Contest May be Held
  • February 13 – End of Season (with or without a State Series)
• Currently, State Series events are To Be Determined. The IHSA will make every effort to conduct some form of State Series event and will announce decisions related to this as they become available. 
• It is recommended to keep Saturday, Jan. 23 as an open date on your schedule for the purpose of a potential date for some form of State Series event.
• Competitive Dance Teams still must follow IHSA By-law 5.352 Contest Limitation and are limited to participating in no more than six (6) dates (both virtual and in-person count toward the six) exclusive of the State Series.

IHSA Competitive Dance MUST FOLLOW Competitive Dance Mitigations

2020-2021 Dance Rules Requirements/Considerations

• Dancer to dancer contact will not be allowed.
• Lifts, Stunts and Partner Stunts will not be allowed. (NFHS Rules 4-2 through 4-7)
• Participants should be appropriately spaced on the floor to ensure proper social distancing, 6-feet apart. When changing formations social distancing (6-ft) apart must be followed.
• Masks must be worn at all times, including while performing.
• If poms are used, they cannot be shared among dancers.

In-Person Requirements and Considerations for Contest Hosts and Invitational Managers. 

• All guidelines of IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 must be adhered to. 
• Competition Capacity – Dancers, coaches, judges, competition personnel, and media are restricted to a combined total of 50 people inside of a (i.e. gymnasiums, field houses, all-purpose rooms).
• Pre-contest Meeting
  • Consider using methods to keep coaches socially distanced during coaches’ meetings.
  • Electronic or virtual meetings are encouraged when possible even a day before the competition.
  • Face coverings for all officials and coaches are required at pre-meet coaches’ meetings.   

• Spectators – If competition hosts allow spectators, they must always wear masks and maintain 6-feet social distancing throughout the entire event as outlined above and in the IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 Guidelines and IDPH guidance and are counted as part of the 50 individuals throughout the entire event as outlined above and in the IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 Guidelines and IDPH guidance. NOTE: Some sites may not permit spectators.

• Warm-up Spaces – For invitationals, auxiliary spaces (i.e. gymnasiums, field houses, all-purpose rooms, etc.) can be used as holding areas for student participants, meet personnel, spectators, etc. as long as all auxiliary spaces allow for social distancing and are kept at 50 people or less.
• Competition Rotation- Once one group of dancers, coaches, competition personnel, and media for a combined total of 50 people completely vacate the warm-up space or performance area a new group of 50 can occupy that area.  Time schedules should be spaced with minimum of 10 minutes between routines.
• Invited Teams - Per IDPH guidelines, competition is limited to intra-conference or intra-EMS-region (See IDPH COVID EMS-Region Map link below in resources).  Small events make it easier to space those in attendance to the appropriate social distancing.  Small events must adhere to the event capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4.
• Locker Rooms- should be used as little as possible.  Dancers should wear costumes to competitions to limit use of locker rooms. 
• Awards:
  • Avoid meet protocols that cause coaches, participants, and spectators to congregate closely together (results boards, awards ceremonies, water stations, etc.). 
    • Consider using an online platform for results and awards announcements.
    • Ask athletes to bring their own water and have their own plan for retrieving their water after competition.  
• Streaming – Competitions can be streamed.  Schools may use their preferred streaming service.  It is the responsibility of the host and the competing schools to secure all appropriate copyrights necessary for streaming and performing.  The Association is not responsible for copyright.  For additional information on streaming contact the NFHS Network - https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/ - customersupport@nfhsnetwork.com or mkoski@nfhsnetwork.com.

• Transportation -For transportation to and from extracurricular events, schools may adhere to the same guidance provided by ISBE regarding transporting students to and from school.   

• Sanitation: Have sanitation materials (disinfecting wipes, sprays, hand sanitizer, etc.) in prime locations for host personnel to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and meet equipment.

Guidelines and Considerations Virtual Contest

• Small Invites- Schools are encouraged to keep virtual invites small (30 teams or less) while the concept is new and school technology platforms will vary. Times below can be adjusted depending on the size of invite.  
• Officials- Adjustments to the number of dance officials may be made due to the size of the competition and the COVID-19 mitigation protocols (ex. Number of technical officials due to no lifts, stunts or sharing of poms)
• Timeline- Individual contest hosts will establish a timeline for their invitational. Below is a sample.
• Timeline (Proposed):
• 3:00 pm -Friday- Contest hosts emails competing teams a keyword (if a keyword is going to be used).
• 3:30pm- 5:30 pm -Friday- Teams must hold the key word on the screen and then immediately film their routine. (Timeframes for uploading videos can expanded by the host school and keywords do not have to be used).
• 5:30 pm- Friday-All routines submitted into a google drive folder or alternative platform.
• 9:00 am - Saturday - Judges will begin scoring (from the host school 6-ft apart socially distanced. This will need to be communicated in official contracts. If judges are scoring from home, additional time should be allowed.
• 11:00-3:00 pm- Competition host will combine all videos into a YouTube Live or Zoom.
• 6:00 pm- Saturday- all videos will be shown through a school’s choice platform:  YouTube Live, Zoom, Big Marker, NFHS Network, etc.. Invite hosts can enable chat, utilize an announcer and/or add additional audience features at their discretion.
• 7:30 pm Awards Ceremony.

Virtual Competition Guidelines:

• Video must be taken from a team’s high school gym.
• Utilize full house lighting.
• The camera should be elevated on center and all dancers must be seen throughout the performance. No side or back angles should be on the videotape.
• Filming must be from center court.
• Video should be taken 10-20 bleachers elevated so all formations can be visible to the judges.
• Video should not be cut or altered in any way.  Teams may put their audio file over the video (especially if they are sharing the gym with other sports and music will be challenging to hear), but they may NOT edit their video in any other way or put multiple videos together. Any editing with more than one video of their competition routine compiled together, will be disqualified from the competition. Entries must be one video from start to finish.
• Filming should be on an iPhone, iPad, or basic camera. 
• No professional cameras or operators can be used.  
• Fans/spectators cannot be present during the recording.
• If keywords are used, the keyword must be visible at beginning and end of the video.
• Keywords are not required. Timeframes for uploading videos can expanded by the host school.
  
  

Virtual Consideration for Officials:

• Judges can score from home or the contest site.  Contest managers will need to clearly communicate the expectations to the judges via their contact.
• If the judges officiate from their home, they will be required to:
  • Attend a zoom meeting setup by their head official.
  • The Zoom meeting must be within the allowed time frame given by the contest host
  • Officials are expected to collaborate on scores and deductions as a team
• Judges will access the videos from the platform indicated by the competition host
• Judges can utilize Tourneywire. 
• It is recommended that contest hosts give officials at least 24 hours to critique and score the virtual contest from home before announcing their awards if officials will not be gathering together to score at the host school.
• In the event the virtual contest is live scored, a minimum of 10 minutes between each live virtual performance is recommended.
• Contest hosts can request the head judge to be in a zoom meeting with the host school to confirm contest results.  
  
  

Requirements and Considerations for Coaches:

• Communicate practice and all competition guidelines in a clear manner to student participants and their parents. 
• For practices, consider conducting workouts in “pods” of same students who are always training and rotating together.  This will ensure more limited exposure if someone develops an infection. 
• Keep accurate records of those athletes and staff who attend each practice in case contact tracing is needed. 
• Always have a plan to maintain social distancing amongst your team and coaching staff at all times. 
• Always require use of facial coverings.
• Require athletes to arrive at the competition venue already in competitive attire.  If locker rooms must be used, ensure athletes can maintain social distancing. 
• It is recommended to always have sanitation materials available (i.e. hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, etc.) for the team and coaching staff.
• Educate your student athletes on proper hand washing and sanitation.
• Coaches should wear face coverings at all practices and meets.  

Requirements and Consideration for Officials:

• Communicate the format and protocols in the officials’ contracts.
• Face coverings are required at all times.
• Officials should be spaced 6ft apart.
• Bring personal hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently.
• Do not share equipment.
• Follow social distancing guidelines
  • Communication with coaches, participants, invitational managers, or other judges must be done at the appropriate social distance. 
• Refrain from shaking hands.
• Adjustments to the number of dance officials may be made due to the size of the competition and the COVID-19 mitigation protocols (ex. Number of technical officials due to no lifts, stunts or sharing of poms)

Requirements and Considerations for Student Athletes:

• Student athletes should be responsible for their own supplies such as a water bottle.
• Students should wear their own appropriate practice clothing and not share clothing or costumes with anyone.  All equipment and attire should be washed immediately upon returning home. 
• Hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer should be frequent at all contests and practices.
• Athletes should tell coaches immediately when they are not feeling well.
• Face coverings are required at all times.
  • Any mask modification requests, due to a documented medical condition, must come through an Accommodation Request through the IHSA School Center.

Requirements and Considerations for Parents:

• Make sure your dancer and immediate household members are free from illness before participating in practice and competition (if there is any doubt, stay home).
• Provide personal items for your dancer and clearly label them.
• Help make sure that your dancer is washing/cleaning clothing and personal items after each use. 
• Know facility/venue limitations on capacity/attendance prior to attending a competition.  Always maintain social distance and wear a face covering while in attendance at an event.

Transportation

• Follow ISBE Guidelines. For transportation to events, schools must consider social distancing requirements. Social distancing (as required by state or local health department) will need to be maintained on all transportation.

Eating and drinking:

• Ensure 6- ft distance whenever athletes are eating or drinking.
• Replace face coverings immediately after eating or drinking.

Questions:

• Questions may be addressed to IHSA Dance Administrator, Tracie Henry (thenry@ihsa.org).

 Resources:

IHSA Return to Activities 2.0 - https://www.ihsa.org/documents/CovidGuidelines/Return%20to%20Activities%202.0.pdf

IDPH Sport Safety Guidance - http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance

IDPH COVID-19 EMS-Regions Map - https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781

Click here to print IHSA Girls Gymnastics Considerations

 

IHSA 2020-21 GIRLS GYMNASTICS CONSIDERATIONS

This document is intended to provide guidance for schools conducting practices and competitions during the 2020-2021 IHSA Girls Gymnastics season.  The guidelines explained in this document are intended to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets and potential for illness through safe practices such as social distancing, proper hygiene, and appropriate protective equipment.  This is not an exhaustive list, and school officials may take additional measures based on requirements set forth by their school district and/or local health officials.  Please understand that even with this guidance, there is still risk of transmitting illness at events such as gymnastics practices and competitions. Additionally, with the changing nature of the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, these guidelines may change.

Modified Season:

• On July 29, the IHSA Board of Directors modified the IHSA Girls Gymnastics season along with all other sport seasons in response to the circumstances surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The modified competitive girls’ gymnastics season is as follows:
  • November 16 – Girls Gymnastics Tryouts May Take Place and Practice May Begin
  • November 30 – First Contest May be Held
  • February 13 – End of Season (with or without a State Series)
• Currently, State Series events are To Be Determined. The IHSA will make every effort to conduct some form of State Series event and will announce decisions related to this as they become available. 
• It is recommended to keep February 1-4 as open dates on your schedules for the purpose of a potential date for some form of State Series event.
• Girls Gymnastics Teams still must follow IHSA By-law 3.054 Participation Limitations and are required to engage in at least six (6) dates to participate in a team competition in Association- sponsored meets. If a team will not meet the requirement of (6) dates they will need to appeal to IHSA Craig Anderson (canderson@ihsa.org) for an exemption.

In- Person Requirements and Considerations for Contest Hosts

• All guidelines of IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 must be adhered.
• Competition Capacity – Gymnastics, coaches, judges, competition personnel, and media are restricted to a combined total of 50 people inside  (i.e. gymnasiums, field houses, all-purpose rooms).
• Pre-contest Meeting
  • Consider using methods to keep coaches socially distanced during coaches’ meetings.
  • Electronic or virtual meetings are encouraged when possible even a day before the competition.
  • Face coverings for all officials and coaches are required at pre-meet coaches’ meetings.   

• Spectators – If competition hosts allow spectators, they must always wear masks and maintain 6-feet social distancing throughout the entire event as outlined above and in the IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 Guidelines and IDPH guidance and are counted as part of the 50 individuals throughout the entire event as outlined above and in the IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 Guidelines and IDPH guidance. NOTE: Some sites may not permit spectators.
• Warm-up Spaces – For meets auxiliary spaces (i.e. gymnasiums, field houses, all-purpose rooms, etc.) can be used as holding areas for gymnasts, meet personnel, spectators, etc. as long as all auxiliary spaces allow for social distancing and are kept at 50 people or less.  Remove chalk bowls from common areas, athletes are required to supply their own.

• Competition Gym- Gymnasts, coaches, competition personnel, and media for a combined total of 50 people. Remove chalk bowls from common areas, athletes are required to supply their own.
• Timers- Can be gymnasts not competing on an event to reduce the number of people in a space.
• Invited Team(s) - Peer IDPH guidelines, competition is limited to intra-conference or intra-EMS-region (See IDPH COVID EMS-Region Map link below in resources).  Small events make it easier to space those in attendance to the appropriate social distancing.  Small events must adhere to the event capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4.
• Locker Rooms- Should be used as little as possible.  Gymnastics should wear competition attire to competitions to limit use of locker rooms. 
• Awards-
  • Avoid meet protocols that cause coaches, participants, and spectators to congregate closely together (results boards, awards ceremonies, water stations, chalk bowls, etc.). 
    • Consider using an online platform for results and awards announcements.
    • Ask athletes to bring their own water and have their own plan for retrieving their water after competition.  
• Transportation - For transportation to and from extracurricular events, schools may adhere to the same guidance provided by ISBE regarding transporting students to and from school.   
• Sanitation: Have sanitation materials (disinfecting wipes, sprays, hand sanitizer, etc.) in prime locations. Follow manufacture protocol to disinfect apparatuses. (See resource links below)

Virtual Requirements and Considerations for Contest Hosts

• Must be judged by IHSA licensed Officials
• Must use IHSA specific scoresheet  (https://www.ihsa.org/documents/gyg/GYG%20Scoresheets.pdf)
• Virtual contests count towards IHSA By-law 5.232
• Contact Tracie Henry (thenry@ihsa.org) if you are looking for a virtual platform.

Requirements and Considerations for Coaches:

• Face coverings are always required.
• Communicate practice and all competition guidelines in a clear manner to student participants and their parents. 
• Consider conducting workouts in “pods” of same students always training and rotating together on apparatus
• Keep accurate records of those athletes and staff who attend each practice in case contact tracing is needed. 
• Always have a plan to maintain social distancing amongst your team and coaching staff.
• Athlete safety is paramount, and coaches should not be restricted from spotting an athlete if necessary, to protect the athlete from injury.
• Expectations regarding spotting or alternative teaching/coaching methods should be clearly communicated repeatedly during practice.
• Require athletes to arrive at the competition venue already in competitive attire.  If locker rooms must be used, ensure athletes can maintain social distancing. 
• It is recommended to always have sanitation materials available (i.e. hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, etc.) for the team and coaching staff.
• Educate your student athletes on proper hand washing and sanitation.
• Coaches should wear face coverings at all practices and meets.  
• Follow CDC and IHDP guidelines regarding social distancing.
• Follow the CDC and IDPH guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting the building.
• Follow manufacture protocol to disinfect apparatuses. (See resource links below)

Requirements and Consideration for Officials/Judges:

• Communicate the format and protocols in the officials’ contracts.
• Face coverings are always required.
• Officials should be spaced 6ft apart.
• Bring personal hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently.
• Do not share equipment.
• Follow social distancing guidelines
  • Communication with coaches, participants, invitational managers, or other judges must be done at the appropriate social distance. 
• Refrain from shaking hands, hugs, fist bumps, etc.

Requirements and Considerations for Student Athletes:

• Gymnasts are required to wear face coverings while in the facility and when moving from each apparatus, but not while participating on the equipment. 
  • Any mask modification requests, due to a documented medical condition, must come through an Accommodation Request through the IHSA School Center.
• Student athletes should be responsible for their own supplies such as a water bottle.
• Students should wear their own appropriate practice clothing and not share clothing or costumes with anyone.  All equipment and attire should be washed immediately upon returning home. 
• No hugging, shaking hands, or fist bumps for support/encouragement.
• Hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer should be frequent at all contests and practices.
• Athletes should tell coaches immediately when they are not feeling well.
• Athletes must supply their own personal chalk bag/bin.

Requirements and Considerations for Parents:

• Make sure your gymnast and immediate household members are free from illness before participating in practice and competition (if there is any doubt, stay home).
• Provide personal items for your gymnast and clearly label them.
  • Gym bag, water bottle, grips, tapes, pre-wrap, wrist guards, personal chalk bag etc. (See NFHS gym bag document linked below in resources)
  • Individual chalk bags, plastic bins, buckets or other storage containers should be used and stored in the athlete’s gym bag.
• Help make sure that your gymnast is washing/cleaning clothing and personal items after each use. 

Eating and drinking:

• Ensure 6- ft distance whenever athletes are eating or drinking.
• Replace face coverings immediately after eating or drinking.

Questions:

• Questions may be addressed to IHSA Gymnastics Administrator, Tracie Henry (thenry@ihsa.org).

Resources:

IHSA Return to Activities 2.0 - https://www.ihsa.org/documents/CovidGuidelines/Return%20to%20Activities%202.0.pdf

IDPH Sport Safety Guidance - http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance

IDPH COVID-19 EMS-Regions Map - https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781

USA Gymnastics Cleaning Guide-

https://usagym.org/PDFs/About%20USA%20Gymnastics/covid/aai_cleaning.pdf

Spieth Equipment- https://usagym.org/PDFs/About%20USA%20Gymnastics/covid/spieth_cleaning.pdf

AAI Equipment-

1. 1. Cleaning tips: https://usagym.org/PDFs/About%20USA%20Gymnastics/covid/aai_cleaning.pdf
   2. Vinyl Mats and shapes: https://usagym.org/PDFs/About%20USA%20Gymnastics/covid/aai_vinyl.pdf\
   3. Suede Beams and Vaults : https://usagym.org/PDFs/About%20USA%20Gymnastics/covid/aai_suede.pdf

Gymnastics Gym Bag- https://www.ihsa.org/documents/gyg/NFHS%20Gym%20Bag.pdf

Click here to print IHSA Boys Swimming & Diving Considerations

 

IHSA 2020-21 SWIMMING & DIVING CONSIDERATIONS

This document is intended to provide guidance for schools conducting practices and hosting meets during the 2020 IHSA Swimming & Diving season.  The guidelines explained in this document are intended to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets and potential for illness through safe practices such as social distancing, proper hygiene, and appropriate protective equipment.  This is not an exhaustive list, and school officials may take additional measures based on requirements set forth by their school district and/or local health officials.  Please understand that even with this guidance, there is still risk of transmitting illness at events such as swimming & diving meets.  Additionally, with the changing nature of the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, these guidelines may change.

Modified Season:

• On July 29, the IHSA Board of Directors modified the IHSA Swimming & Diving seasons along with all other sport seasons in response to the circumstances surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The modified boys swimming & diving season is as follows:
  • November 16 – Practice May Begin
  • November 30 – First Contest May be Held
  • February 13 – End of Season (with or without a state series)
• It is recommended to keep Saturday, February 13 as an open date on your schedules for the purpose of a potential date for a sectional event.
• If a State Series is conducted and your school had difficulty meeting the 6 contest requirement as outlined in IHSA By-laws as a result of circumstances surrounding the pandemic, you may contact IHSA Executive Director, Craig Anderson (canderson@ihsa.org), to inquire about a waiver.         

General Requirements and Considerations:

• Social distancing between individuals of at least 6 feet must be maintained at all times.  Handshakes, fist bumps, hugging, etc. are not permissible.
• Meet Capacity - Student participants, coaches, timers, paid/volunteer meet officials, spectators, and media are restricted to a combined total of 50 people inside of a natatorium.
• Spectators – If meet hosts allow spectators, they must wear facial coverings and maintain 6 feet social distance at all times. 
• Small meets (i.e. duals) are most effective in maintaining fewer competitors, school personnel, officials, and spectators.  Small meets make it easier to space those in attendance to the appropriate social distancing.  Small meets must adhere to the event capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 as well as those outlined in this document. 
• Multi-team Meets - If schools have scheduled large meets such as invitationals or anything larger than a dual, then again, hosts must ensure that ALL event attendees are held to the capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 as well as this document (i.e.  Student participants, coaches, timers, paid/volunteer meet officials, spectators, and media are restricted to a combined total of 50 people inside of a natatorium..).
• Auxiliary Spaces – For larger meets, auxiliary spaces (i.e. gymnasiums, field houses, all-purpose rooms, etc.) can be used as holding areas for student participants, meet personnel, spectators, etc. as long as all auxiliary spaces allow for social distancing and are kept at 50 people or less.
• Competition:  Per IDPH guidelines, competition is limited to intra-conference or intra-EMS-region (See IDPH COVID EMS-Region Map link below in resources). 

• Transportation - For transportation to and from extracurricular events, schools may adhere to the same guidance provided by ISBE regarding transporting students to and from school. 
• Practices - Since practices are solely intra-team, there can be more than one swimmer per lane for the purpose of intra-team training.  In order for this to occur, per IDPH Guidelines, written parental consent must be provided to the school (See USA Swimming Link for ideas for practice layout).

Requirements and Considerations for Meet Managers. 

• Pool Facilities:
  • Increase water sanitation level, i.e. keep chlorine closer to 2.0 PPM. 
  • Eliminate the use of low ventilated spaces and rooms that prevent social distancing, such as locker rooms and small dryland rooms.  Eliminate the use of lockers whenever possible.
  • Watches, clip boards, and lap-counters should be sanitized after each use.  Touchpads should be sanitized periodically while out of the water.  Diving boards and backstroke flags should be sanitized periodically. 
  • On deck during meets – Only essential personnel are permitted on the deck. These are defined as swimmers/divers, coaches, athletic trainers, lifeguards and officials. Authorized timers, recorders, runners, computer operators necessary to conduct competition are essential. All others, i.e., team managers, video people, media photographers, family members, non-competing students, etc. are considered non-essential personnel and are to be in the gallery remaining in the seating area (when present) or remaining outside the deck area.
  • Locker Rooms should be used as little as possible.  Athletes should wear swimming suits to practice and competitions to limit use of locker rooms. 
• Relays:
  • In order for the sport of swimming and diving to maintain an IDPH status of low risk, there cannot be relays at this time.    
• Meet Entries:
  • Given that relays are not currently permissible, there will be a modification to NFHS Rule 3-2-1.  Swimmers will be permitted to enter in a maximum of four (4) individual events.  Conferences can modify this to less than four (4) individual events if they choose for conference meets. However, four (4) events is the maximum number of individual events that a participant may compete in. 
    • NOTE:  In the event that the IDPH allows for relays to be reinstated for this season or if conferences or hosts choose to use an “add up time” model in place of the traditional relay, then the original NFHS Rule 3-2-1 will apply as written (A competitor shall be permitted to enter a maximum of four (4) events, no more than two (2) of which may be individual events). If an IHSA State Series is conducted, relays will not be performed (even in alternate formats) unless the IDPH guidelines allow for traditional relays prior to the state series.   
• Submission of Entries to Referee (5-2):
  • Alternative forms of entry submission can be designed to reduce face-to-face interaction when submitting a proper entry, where/how/to whom entries are submitted, and a reduction or elimination of certain penalties currently attached to improper entries.
• Diving Warm-up Areas:
  • Limit number of divers during warm-up by creating multiple sessions.
  • During competition, divers may not approach the board until their turn to compete.
  • Hot tubs should not be permitted.
  • Dive order sheets should be posted in multiple areas to reduce number of divers viewing at the same time.
• Teams Seating and Lane Placement:
  • For duals, it is recommended to keep the teams on opposite sides of the pool and require the home team to compete in lanes 1-3 and visitors to swim in lanes 4-6.
  • For larger meets, auxiliary spaces may need to be used to keep the natatorium at the 50 person capacity. 
  • Face coverings must be worn at all times by anyone not competing or warming up/down.
• Swimming Warm-up Areas: 
  • Establish multiple sessions for warm-up periods to allow for appropriate social distancing.
  • Restrict the number of swimmers in competition area.
  • At meets, swimmers will be limited to one swimmer per lane as per IDPH Guidelines.  However, if the warm-up will only consist of one team in the pool at a time, then there can be more than one swimmer per lane with written parental consent.
• Coaches Packet Pick-up:
  • Transmit as much information as possible electronically prior to the meet.
  • For any information that cannot be submitted electronically, organize a method for the packet pick up that keeps coaches socially distanced (i.e. time slots for small numbers of coaches to pick up packets, marks on the ground that are 6 feet apart for coaches lines formed at packet pick-up, etc.)
  • Face coverings must be worn by coaches and packet pick-up personnel at all times. 
• Pre-meet coaches’ meetings (3-3-6; 4-2-1d):
  • Consider using methods to keep coaches socially distanced during coaches’ meetings.
    • Electronic or virtual meetings are encouraged when possible.
    • Multiple smaller meetings with a smaller number of attendees at a time is also a way to allow for social distancing. 
    • Face coverings for all officials and coaches are required at pre-meet coaches’ meetings.    
• Clerking:
  • Officials must conduct clerking at the starting blocks to avoid competitors congregating in a separate location prior to their race.
• Timers (4-9):
  • Timers must assemble at the finish of each race, at the edge of the pool within the 6-8 feet confines of the lane which they are timing. Timers should wear cloth facial coverings.
• Lap Counting (2-7-6, 3-4):
  • Only one person per lane should be permitted at turning end. Provide hand sanitizer and require lap counters to clean hands and wipe down devices.
• Crowding:
  • Avoid meet protocols that cause coaches, participants, and spectators to congregate closely together (results boards, awards ceremonies, water stations, etc.). 
    • Consider using an online platform for results.
    • Consider using general PA announcements or an online platform for award recognitions.
    • Ask athletes to bring their own water and have their own plan for retrieving their water after competition.  
• Sanitation:
  • Have sanitation materials (disinfecting wipes, sprays, hand sanitizer, etc.) in prime locations for meet personnel to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and meet equipment.

Requirements and Considerations for Coaches:

• Communicate practice and all competition guidelines in a clear manner to student participants and their parents. 
• For practices, consider conducting workouts in “pods” of same students who are always training and rotating together.  This will ensure more limited exposure if someone develops an infection. 
• Keep accurate records of those athletes and staff who attend each practice in case contact tracing is needed. 
• Always have a plan to maintain social distancing amongst your team and coaching staff at all times. 
• Always require use of facial coverings when not engaged in training, competing, or other strenuous physical activity.
• Require athletes to arrive at the competition venue already in competitive attire.  If locker rooms must be used, ensure athletes can maintain social distancing. 
• It is recommended to always have sanitation materials available (i.e. hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, etc.) for the team and coaching staff.
• Educate your student athletes on proper hand washing and sanitation.
• Coaches should wear face coverings at all practices and meets.  

Requirements and Consideration for Officials:

• Officials are required to use regular whistles with a cover or electronic whistles. 
• Referee and Starter (4-2, 4-3) - Various rules require interactions between officials, coaches and athletes. Alternative methods for of communications include utilization of the P.A. system, hand signals or written communication.
• Notification of Disqualification (4-2-2d, e) - Notification shall occur from a distance via use of hand signals or the P.A. system.
• Meet Officials (4-8, 4-10, 4-11, 4-12, 4-13) - Officials responsible for information processing are often located together at a desk/table adjacent to the competition course or in an office/remote location. Develop alternative methods for submitting entries (3-2) and movement of non-electronic information. Require a distance of 6 feet between individuals seated at the desk/table.
• Diving Officials (9-6) - Alternative methods for submitting entries (3-2) and movement of non-electronic information will be required. Recommendations include a distance of 6 feet between individuals seated at the desk/table. Create a 6 feet space between judges by spacing groups of judges on opposite sides of boards or on one side of the board on a multi-level platform.
• Bring personal hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently.
• Do not share equipment.
• Follow social distancing guidelines
  • Communication with coaches, participants, meet personnel, or spectators must be done at the appropriate social distance. 
• Refrain from shaking hands.
• Wear a face covering at all times.

Requirements and Considerations for Student Athletes:

• Student athletes should be responsible for their own supplies such as a water bottle.
• Students should wear their own appropriate workout clothing and not share clothing with anyone.  All equipment and clothing should be washed immediately upon returning home. 
• Hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer should be frequent at all contests and practices.
• Athletes should tell coaches immediately when they are not feeling well.
• Face coverings are required at all times when not engaged in training, competing or other strenuous activity. 

Requirements and Considerations for Parents:

• Make sure your child and immediate household members are free from illness before participating in practice and competition (if there is any doubt, stay home).
• Provide personal items for your child and clearly label them.
• Help make sure that your child is washing/cleaning clothing and personal items after each use. 
• Know facility/venue limitations on capacity/attendance prior to attending a meet.  Always maintain social distance and wear a face covering while in attendance at an event.

Eating and drinking:

• Ensure 6 foot distance whenever athletes are eating or drinking.
• Replace face coverings immediately after eating or drinking.

Questions:

• Questions may be addressed to IHSA Swimming & Diving Administrator, Kraig Garber (kgarber@ihsa.org).

Resources:
IHSA Return To Activities 2.0 - https://www.ihsa.org/documents/CovidGuidelines/Return%20to%20Activities%202.0.pdf

IDPH Sport Safety Guidance - http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance

IDPH COVID-19 EMS-Regions Map - https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781

USA Swimming -  https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:037bd9a8-5fcd-40a5-a325-38dedef07fe8

Evanston Township High School Natatorium Use Plan - https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:4e84a1d2-cacf-42fd-99dc-0cd53ede6c7c

  

2020-21 Guidance for IHSA Officials

 

IHSA & NFHS 2020-21 Guidance for Officials

The NFHS Officials Advisory Committee offers this guidance for state associations for the 2020-21 school year.   

The guidance outlined in this document is meant to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets by encouraging social distancing, limiting participation in administrative tasks to essential personnel, and allowing for appropriate protective equipment. 

This guidance is meant to cover officials in all sports while keeping in mind that protocols are different in each sport and adjustments may need to be made.

OFFICIALS UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT

These requirements are in effect until further notice from the IHSA office.

• Officials are REQUIRED to use regular whistles (with a cover) or electronic whistles.

This is an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 through respiratory droplets that come from officials’ whistles.

The whistle cover must be solid black with no lettering or logos.  The color of an electronic whistle doesn’t matter.  Officials can use an electronic whistle in any color. 

• Officials are REQUIRED to wear face coverings when they are not actively exercising.

Officials must wear face coverings as they enter and exit the school, gym, or field. 

The IHSA prefers that officials wear solid black face coverings with no lettering or logos.

• Officials are allowed to wear gloves and long sleeves.

RULES CONSIDERATIONS

PREGAME CONFERENCE

• Maintain social distancing while performing all pregame responsibilities.
• Move the pregame conference to the center of the court/field. All individuals maintain a social distance of three to six feet.
• Limit attendees at the pregame conference to one official, the head coach from each team, and a single captain from each team; or speak with the team representatives in a separate meeting.
• Officials, coaches, and captains should not shake hands or bump fists prior to or following the pregame conference.
• If officials use electronic whistles, they should demonstrate the sounds to coaches and captains since the tones from different whistles might vary.

SCORER’S TABLE  

• Limit seats to essential personnel which includes the home team’s official scorer and scoreboard operator with a recommended distance of three to six feet between individuals.
• Visiting team personnel (scorer, statisticians, etc.) are not deemed essential and may need to find an alternative location.
• Space available at the scorer’s table will vary at each school.
• Scorer’s table personnel should follow local and state face covering requirements.

PREGAME & POSTGAME HANDSHAKES

• Teams and officials should not shake hands or bump fists during pregame or postgame ceremonies.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITIES FOR OFFICIALS

PRESEASON TRAINING

• Attend online clinics and association meetings to review the rules for the coming season.
• Start a physical training routine.  If an official has been diagnosed with COVID-19, he/she should be cleared by a medical provider prior to initiating an exercise program.
• Practice NFHS-approved signals while using an electronic whistle.

GAME DAY

• If officials do not feel well and have COVID-19 symptoms, they should notify their assignor, the host school, and crew members.  Officials with COVID-19 symptoms should stay home and not officiate.
• Officials can take their temperature in the morning and then again prior to leaving home/work for a contest.
• Officials should notify the site administrator immediately if their temperature is elevated above 100.3 or a level recommended by your local or state health department.
• “Vulnerable individuals” are defined by CDC as people 65 years and older and others with serious underlying health conditions.  Officials fitting this description may wish to seek medical advice prior to returning to officiating.
• Schools will likely have different local rules regarding COVID-19.  Officials should communicate with school athletic administrators about contest expectations.
• Officials should consider travel arrangements to contest sites with officiating partners.
• Upon arrival at the contest site and throughout the contest, officials should wash and sanitize their hands frequently.
• Officials should maintain social distancing of three to six feet while in the locker room and/or on the court/field.
• Officials should not share uniforms, towels, apparel, and equipment.
• Officials should bring their own water bottles and/or sports drinks.

Officials ARE NOT responsible for monitoring social distancing guidelines on the team benches, sidelines, in the bleachers, or anywhere outside the boundaries of the court/field.

Coaches and school personnel are responsible for monitoring their own teams.

SPORT-SPECIFIC GUIDANCE

Cross Country: Face coverings are required when officials cannot maintain a safe social distance.

Baseball & Softball: Face coverings are required when umpires cannot maintain a safe social distance.  If umpires and coaches cannot maintain a safe social distance during the pregame meeting at home plate, umpires are required to wear a face covering.

Plate umpires are not required to wear a face covering when they are actively officiating. 

Swimming & Diving: Face coverings are required at all times.

Basketball: Face coverings are required when officials enter the gym and throughout the entire pregame, including the pregame conference.

Face coverings are not required when officials are actively officiating on the court. 

Officials may wear gloves and long sleeves.  Officials who choose to wear gloves must wear clear or black gloves.  If officials wear long sleeves under a short-sleeved official’s shirt, the long sleeves must be black.

Pregame Conference

Limit attendees to the referee and the head coach from each team with each

coach standing on the center circle on each side of the division line.

Officials should not wear jackets during pre-game court/player observation.

           

Basketball officiating mechanics changes for the 2020-21 season:

Throw-ins

• Officials should maintain social distance from the thrower.
• The administering official must bounce the ball to the thrower when space allows, even in a backcourt or frontcourt throw-in on the end line.

Free throws

• Officials must maintain social distance from players on the lane.
• The lead official must bounce the ball to the shooter for all free throws.

Jump ball

• Eliminate the jump ball. 
• Award the ball to the visiting team for the first possession of the game. 
• The alternating possession arrow will be set after the initial throw-in.
• If the game is at a neutral site, a coin toss determines which teams gets the first possession of the game.

• If the game goes to overtime, a coin toss determines which team gets the first possession of the overtime period.  The visiting team’s coach calls the coin toss.
• The alternating possession arrow will be set after the initial overtime throw-in.
• If the game goes to multiple overtimes, a coin toss determines the opening possession of each overtime.  The visiting team’s coach calls the coin toss.

IHSA Performing Arts (Speech, Debate, Drama, Music) Guidance

IHSA Chess Guidance

IHSA Scholastic Bowl Guidance

2020-21 Guidance for IHSA Officials

Click here to print IHSA Cross Country Considerations
 

IHSA 2020-21 CROSS COUNTRY CONSIDERATIONS

This document is intended to provide guidance for schools conducting practices and hosting meets during the 2020 IHSA Cross Country season.  The guidelines explained in this document are intended to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets and potential for illness through safe practices such as social distancing, proper hygiene, and appropriate protective equipment.  This is not an exhaustive list, and school officials may take additional measures based on requirements set forth by their school district and/or local health officials.  Please understand that even with this guidance, there is still risk of transmitting illness at events such as cross-country meets.  Additionally, with the changing nature of the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, these guidelines may change.

Modified Season:

• On July 29, the IHSA Board of Directors modified the IHSA cross-country season along with all other sport seasons in response to the circumstances surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The modified girls and boys cross country seasons are as follows:
  • August 10 – Practice May Begin
  • August 24 – First Contest May be Held
  • October 24 – End of Season
• For the fall of 2020, the IHSA State Series will consist of a one round event which will be held on October 24, 2020.     
• If your school had difficulty meeting the 6 contest requirement as outlined in IHSA By-laws as a result of circumstances surrounding the pandemic, you may contact IHSA Executive Director, Craig Anderson (canderson@ihsa.org), to inquire about a waiver.         

General Requirements and Considerations:

• All guidelines of IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 must be adhered to. 
• Social distancing between individuals of at least 6 feet must be maintained at all times.  Handshakes, fist bumps, hugging, etc. are not permissible.
• Race Capacity - Student participants, coaches, timers, and paid/volunteer meet officials are restricted to a combined total of 50 per race.
• Spectators If meet hosts allow spectators, they must maintain 6 feet social distance when possible.  Facial coverings are optional only if social distancing can be maintained.  In situations where social distancing is difficult to maintain, then facial coverings are required.   
• Small meets (i.e. duals and triangulars) are most effective in maintaining fewer competitors, school personnel, officials, and spectators.  Small meets make it easier to space runners out at the start and finish of a race to ensure for appropriate social distancing.  Small meets must adhere to the event capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 as well as those outlined in this document. 
• Multi-team Meets - If schools have scheduled large meets such as invitationals or anything larger than a triangular, then again, hosts must ensure that ALL event attendees are held to the capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 as well as this document (i.e. combined total of no more than 50 student participants, coaches, officials, and timers per race).
• Multiple Races - If multiple races will occur at a site, then those participating in the race can only be in the vicinity of the racecourse during their scheduled time specified by the meet manager.  Once that time expires, participants must vacate the racecourse area to allow the next scheduled group of participants to compete.   Vacating the racecourse area means that student participants have either left the premises or are in a location that is completely removed from the event. 
• Competition:  Per IDPH guidelines, competition is limited to intra-conference or intra-EMS-region (See IDPH COVID EMS-Region Map link below in resources). 
• Transportation - For transportation to and from extracurricular events, schools may adhere to the same guidance provided by ISBE regarding transporting students to and from school.   

Requirements and Considerations for Meet Managers. 

• Course: 
  • Rule 8-1-3a may need to be modified so that the narrowest point of the course is 6 feet wide as opposed to 3 feet wide.
• Meet Entries:
  • Consider limiting meet entries to the maximum number of competitors to represent a team in a cross-country race (7 runners) plus one alternate runner per race.    
• Team Headquarters at Meets:
  • Hosts should establish team headquarter areas that allow for teams to space at least 30 feet apart while maintaining social distancing within their own team’s headquarters.
  • Face coverings must be worn by anyone in a team’s headquarter.
  • Food and tailgating should be discouraged at all cross country events in order to get teams in and out.
• Coaches Packet Pick-up:
  • Transmit as much information as possible electronically prior to the meet.
  • For any information that cannot be submitted electronically, organize a method for the packet pick up that keeps coaches socially distanced (i.e. time slots for small numbers of coaches to pick up packets, marks on the ground that are 6 feet apart for coaches lines formed at packet pick-up, etc.)
  • Face coverings must be worn by coaches and packet pick-up personnel at all times. 
• Pre-meet coaches’ meetings:
  • Consider using methods to keep coaches socially distanced during coaches’ meetings.
    • Electronic or virtual meetings are encouraged when possible.
    • Multiple smaller meetings with a smaller number of attendees at a time is also a way to allow for social distancing. 
    • Face coverings for all officials and coaches are required at pre-meet coaches’ meetings.    
• Clerking:
  • Officials must conduct clerking at the starting line to avoid competitors congregating in a separate location prior to their race.
• Starts:
  • If single race start is possible for a race, participants must be lined up in a way that allows for social distancing (6 feet apart)
  • If a race cannot maintain social distancing in a single start, hosts may need to use staggered, wave or interval starts to ensure that social distancing requirements can be met at the starting line (see link in resources section). 
  • Team run outs need to be done straight out from the team box, maintain physical distancing from other teams.
  • Teams should not mass collect warm-up apparel at the start area.
• Finish:
  • Keep competitors socially distanced at the finish of a race.  Finish corrals and FAT timing are the best way to accomplish this at larger meets (see link in resource section). 
  • With no FAT timing system, consider alternative means of finish place and time to address congestion at the finish line.
  • Image based equipment is an effective way to pick place at the finish while avoiding congestion at the finish line.  This equipment could be as simple as a smartphone or iPad. 
• Crowding:
  • Avoid meet protocols that cause coaches, participants, and spectators to congregate closely together (results boards, awards ceremonies, water stations, etc.). 
    • Consider using an online platform for results.
    • Consider using general PA announcements or an online platform for award recognitions.
    • Ask athletes to bring their own water and have their own plan for retrieving their water after competition.  
• Sanitation:
  • Have sanitation materials (disinfecting wipes, sprays, hand sanitizer, etc.) in prime locations for meet personnel to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and meet equipment.

Requirements and Considerations for Coaches:

• Communicate practice and all competition guidelines in a clear manner to student participants and their parents. 
• For practices, consider conducting workouts in “pods” of same students who are always training and rotating together.  This will ensure more limited exposure if someone develops an infection. 
• Keep accurate records of those athletes and staff who attend each practice in case contact tracing is needed. 
• Always have a plan to maintain social distancing amongst your team and coaching staff at all times. 
• Always require use of facial coverings when not engaged in training, competing, or other strenuous physical activity.
• Require athletes to arrive at the competition venue already in competitive attire.  If locker rooms must be used, ensure athletes can maintain social distancing. 
• It is recommended to always have sanitation materials available (i.e. hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, etc.) for the team and coaching staff.
• Educate your student athletes on proper hand washing and sanitation.   
• Coaches should wear face coverings at all times when not running with athletes.

Requirements and Consideration for Officials:

• Use of electronic whistle is required.
• Bring personal hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently.
• Do not share equipment.
• Follow social distancing guidelines (refer to meet manager section for pre-meet coaches meeting, clerking, and posting of results).
  • Work with the timing system operator to conduct video review and tabulate results while maintaining appropriate social distance. 
  • Communication with coaches, participants, meet personnel, or spectators must be done at the appropriate social distance. 
• Refrain from shaking hands.
• Wear a face covering when communicating with others and when social distancing is not possible. 

Requirements and Considerations for Student Athletes:

• Student athletes should be responsible for their own supplies such as a water bottle.
• Students should wear their own appropriate workout clothing and not share clothing with anyone.  All equipment and clothing should be washed immediately upon returning home. 
• Hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer should be frequent at all contests and practices.
• Athletes should tell coaches immediately when they are not feeling well.
• Face coverings are required at all times when not engaged in training, competing or other strenuous activity. 

Requirements and Considerations for Parents:

• Make sure your child and immediate household members are free from illness before participating in practice and competition (if there is any doubt, stay home).
• Provide personal items for your child and clearly label them.
• Help make sure that your child is washing/cleaning clothing and personal items after each use. 
• Know facility/venue limitations on capacity/attendance prior to attending a meet.  Always maintain social distance and wear a face covering while in attendance at an event.

Eating and drinking:

• Ensure 6 foot distance whenever athletes are eating or drinking.
• Replace face coverings immediately after eating or drinking.

Questions:

• Questions may be addressed to IHSA Cross Country Administrator, Kraig Garber (kgarber@ihsa.org).

 Resources:

IHSA Return to Activities 1.0 - https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:33115455-89ef-4f93-bdc7-86bbf7a6fd7d

IDPH Sport Safety Guidance - http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance

IDPH COVID-19 Regions Map - https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781

Staggered/Interval/Wave Start Guidance:  https://ihsaorg-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/kraig_ihsa_org1/ERnE14FSaFZEgt1QlvqdYysBtiR-RHRzBPOd1ro3V2YrNg?e=5IHjcV

Finish Guidance:  https://ihsaorg-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/kraig_ihsa_org1/EXZGq62E8m5Ch1IUik5mc9oBdoe8W-Gbh6w1otiVj4gXXg?e=IYl2EP

 

   

  Click here to print IHSA Golf Considerations


IHSA 2020-21 GOLF CONSIDERATIONS

This document is intended to provide guidance for schools conducting practices and hosting meets during the 2020 IHSA Golf season.  The guidelines explained in this document are intended to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets and potential for illness through safe practices such as social distancing, proper hygiene, and appropriate protective equipment.  This is not an exhaustive list, and school officials may take additional measures based on requirements set forth by their school district and/or local health officials.  Please understand that even with this guidance, there is still risk of transmitting illness at events such as golf events.  Additionally, with the changing nature of the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, these guidelines may change.

Modified Season:

• On July 29, the IHSA Board of Directors modified the IHSA golf season along with all other sport seasons in response to the circumstances surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The modified girls’ and boys’ golf seasons are as follows:
  • August 10 – Practice May Begin
  • August 13– First Contest May be Held
  • October 6 – 7 Regional event for boys’ golf
  • October 7 – Regional event for girls’ golf
  • October 12-17 Sectional events for boys and girls golf.  Event date will be determined by the host.
  • October 24 – End of Season (with or without a State Series)
•  Currently, State Series events are To Be Determined in order to ensure that the events can be conducted safely and in accordance with the Governor’s Restore Illinois Guidelines.  The IHSA will make every effort to conduct some form of State Series event and will announce decisions related to this as they become available. 
• It is recommended to keep the currently scheduled state series dates open on your schedules for the purpose of a potential State Series events.
• If a State Series is conducted and your school had difficulty meeting the 6-contest requirement as outlined in IHSA By-laws as a result of circumstances surrounding the pandemic, please contact IHSA Executive Director, Craig Anderson (canderson@ihsa.org) to inquire about a waiver.        

General Requirements and Considerations:

• All guidelines of IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 must be adhered to. 
• Per IDPH guidelines, competition is limited to intra-conference or intra-EMS-region.
• Social distancing between individuals of at least 6 feet must be maintained at all times.  Handshakes, fist bumps, hugging, etc. are not permissible.
• Student participants, coaches, and officials are restricted to a combined total of 50 per wave.  A wave is defined as an individual group of 50 (golfers, coaches, officials, and volunteers).  Waves should be clearly spaced so that multiple groups of 50 aren’t congregating waiting for their tee time.
• Hosts can have multiple waves at an invitational as long as the waves are completely spaced out so that they don’t intermingle or wait in queue in common areas.
• Spectators are permitted at events as long as they maintain social distancing throughout the event as outlined in the IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 Guidelines.  
• Small events are most effective in maintaining fewer competitors, school personnel, officials, and spectators.  Small events make it easier to space golfers out at the start and finish of a match to ensure for appropriate social distancing.  Small meets must adhere to the event capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 as well as those outlined in this document. 
• If schools have scheduled large tournaments or invitationals, hosts must ensure that ALL event attendees are held to the capacity guidelines outlined in IHSA Return to Play Phase 4 as well as this document (i.e. combined total of no more than 50 student participants, coaches, and officials per wave).

Requirements and Considerations for Managers. 

• Prior to the Event
  • Consider either emailing event information one week in advance to participating schools or host a virtual coaches meeting in lieu of a traditional in-person one.
  • Coaches are responsible for ensuring social distancing is maintained between players. This means additional spacing between players while playing, chatting, or changing drills so that players remain spaced out, and no congregating of players while waiting to hit.
• Arrival/Warm-Up
  • Establish firm arrival times for participants no earlier than 45 minutes prior to a participant’s/school’s first starting time.  Participants who arrive early must stay in their vehicle until the appointed time.
  • Hosts should designate an outdoor waiting area for participants, so athletes don’t have to wait on the bus longer than necessary and aren’t congregating in the club house.
  • Warm-up groups are limited to no more than 50 people in one space at a time.
  • Look to group participants from the same school in successive groups to minimize the gap between the first and last participants from a school.
  • If practice facilities will be available (practice tee, short game area, putting green), establish a flow that participants will follow to ensure everyone has a fair and equitable opportunity to warm up prior to play
    • A suggested flow or pattern for participants should try to keep teams together and ensure that no more than 50 participants will be in any one practice area at one time.  For example, this could mean having some teams use the short game area/putting green first while other teams are on the range and then switch locations after 20 minutes. 
    • Hosts should ensure that 50 participants are able to fit in the practice area and maintain social distance prior to participant arrive.  If social distance cannot be maintained, hosts should designate an area for participants to wait.
    • Only participants and coaches should be allowed on any practice facility and must maintain social distancing.
• Starting
  • Participants should check in at their starting tee immediately after the group preceding them has left the teeing area.
  • If traditional scorecards will be used, they should be bagged and given to participants by a tournament volunteer/manager.  Participants will keep score for all players in their group
  • Any tournament volunteers/managers at the starting tee(s) must wear a mask.
  • Participants shall maintain social distancing at all times.

· On Course Play – Only essential personnel are permitted on the course. These are defined as players, coaches, athletic trainers, and officials. All others, i.e., managers, video people, media photographers, etc. are considered nonessential personnel and are to be in the gallery remaining by the cart path (when present) or remaining at least 15 yards from the players. (Spectators will be resolved below)

• Local Rules
  • Consider adopting local rules for the following:
    • Bunkers
    • Flagstick
    • Holed ball
    • Scorecard Verification
• Spectators
  • Consider whether spectators will be allowed or not.  If allowed, consider placing a limit on the number of spectators per participant.
  • No spectator carts should be permitted.
  • If allowed, spectators must maintain social distancing regardless of the position on the golf course. Spectators must wear masks unless they are outside and able to maintain social distance.
  • If allowed, spectators should be discouraged from giving participants objects like food, water, umbrellas, etc.  If they do give a participant such an object, they should do so quickly and then return to social distancing.

• Hand sanitizer and/or sanitizing wipes – Players, coaches, and officials are encouraged to provide their own hand sanitizer and/or sanitizing wipes. It is recommended to use hand sanitizer before and after each hole and after a round and when going out to, and coming in from, the course. Additionally, emphasize to all to avoid touching their face.

• Media – All local social distancing, mask wearing, and hygiene guidelines for spectators should be followed by media members planning to attend meets. Media members should contact host school administrators prior to arriving.

·    Concession stands – Concession stands are allowed, using IDPH Guidelines.      

·    Coach conferences – Encourage limiting the number of individuals in a conference and/or huddle to those who must be in close proximity for these discussions. Coaches should wear a mask.

·   Team handshakes – Teams and individuals shall NOT exchange handshakes before, during, or following the practice or meet.

·   Press area – Local schools shall determine which personnel should be in the designated press area considering IDPH guidelines.

• Delays
  • Inform participants that in the event of a horn blast signaling a discontinuance of play for a dangerous situation, all participants must proceed directly to their car/team bus.
  • Participants must wear masks if social distancing cannot be maintained while exiting the course.
  • Communication regarding resumption of play should be sent by email or text message.
• Scoring
  • Consider using online scoring platforms in lieu of traditional scorecards.  A number of available apps exist that allow for scoring to be done using cell phones.
  • Either all participants in a group could keep score for one another, or one participant could be charged with keeping score for the entire group.
  • After completion of a round, ONE group at a time should be allowed to enter the scoring area.  While in the scoring area, participants should maintain social distancing.
  • A participant’s scorecard is considered returned and final after all participants in the group have verbally agreed to the hole-by-hole scores while in the scoring area with tournament management.  No signature needs to be required.
  • Once participants exit the scoring area, no additional changes can be made.
  • Once scoring is finished, participants are prohibited from practicing in the practice area or returning to the course.  Participants must return to their car/team bus.
• Awards
  • Awards ceremonies should not be held.
  • Awards can be sent via mail following the event.

Requirements and Considerations for Coaches:

• Communicate practice and all competition guidelines in a clear manner to student participants and their parents. 
• For practices, consider conducting workouts in “pods” of same students who are always training and rotating together.  This will ensure more limited exposure if someone develops an infection. 
• Keep accurate records of those athletes and staff who attend each practice in case contact tracing is needed. 
• Always have a plan to maintain social distancing amongst your team and coaching staff. 
• Always require use of facial coverings when not actively engaged in training, competing, or other strenuous physical activity.
• Require athletes to arrive at the competition venue already in competitive attire.  If locker rooms must be used, ensure athletes can maintain social distancing. 
• It is recommended to always have sanitation materials available (i.e. hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, etc.) for the team and coaching staff.
• Coaches should wear face coverings at all times except when in active play (striking a ball) or when outside and maintaining social distance.
• Educate your student athletes on proper hand washing and sanitation.  

• COACHING

• Group coaching at practices should take place only where full social distancing is possible. Group coaching should be limited to small groups.
• Players/Coaches should be assigned specific practice and tee times.  Position the players at well-spaced stations.

Requirements and Consideration for Tournament Management Officials:

• Bring personal hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently.
• Do not share equipment.
• Follow social distancing guidelines (refer to meet manager section for pre-meet coaches meeting and posting of results).
  • Communication with coaches, participants, meet personnel, or spectators must be done at the appropriate social distance. 
• Refrain from shaking hands.
• Always wear a face covering unless outdoors and able to maintain social distance.

Requirements and Considerations for Participants:

• All participants must maintain social distancing.  This means, regardless of a player’s position on the golf course, players and coaches must maintain 6 feet of distance between themselves and other players/coaches.
• All participants must refrain from touching other participants in any way, unless they are from the same household, including shaking hands prior to and following the round.
• Participants must not touch, handle, or share each other’s equipment.
• Participants should wash hands as frequently as possible and bring hand sanitizer to use during the round.
• Athletes should tell coaches immediately when they are not feeling well.
• Schools hosting events should consider having sanitizer and disinfectant for starting and scoring areas.

· Masks – Players should wear masks whenever they are not able to maintain appropriate social distance from other players, coaches, spectators, or event officials.   If an individual would like to wear a mask while actively playing, they may do so. There is no prohibition on the color of the mask.

· Players licking fingers – If a golfer touches their mouth, practice is stopped and the player must sanitize their hands. Players should only touch and use their own golf ball and not touch other players golf ball or equipment. Players are encouraged to bring their own hand sanitizer, but coaches must have sanitizer available at practices and competitions.  

· Player habits – Coaches should now work to create new habits including staying away from touching their face, not allowing sunflower seeds and not spitting. Do not touch the flagstick or bunker rakes, nor other player’s equipment or golf balls.

· Hand sanitizer and/or sanitizing wipes – Players are encouraged to provide their own hand sanitizer and/or sanitizing wipes. It is recommended to use hand sanitizer before and after each hole and when going out to, and coming in from, the course. Additionally, emphasize to all to avoid touching their face.

Requirements and Considerations for Parents:

• Make sure your child and immediate household members are free from illness before participating in practice and competition (if there is any doubt, stay home).
• Provide personal items for your child and clearly label them.
• Help make sure that your child is washing/cleaning clothing and personal items after each use.
• Know facility/venue limitations on capacity/attendance prior to attending an event.  Always maintain social distance and wear a face covering while in attendance at an event unless you are outdoors and able to maintain social distance.

 

Local Rules (developed in consultation with the Chicago District Golf Association):

• Bunkers – Any area disturbed in a bunker is deemed an Abnormal Course Condition (Ground

Under Repair).  The player may take full relief or maximum available relief under Rule 16.1c, but the player must drop inside the bunker for free relief.

NOTE: Rule 16.1 shall be modified as follows:  interference exists only if the disturbed area in the bunker interferes with the player’s lie or area of intended swing (such as a ridge in front of or behind the ball).  There is no relief for interference with stance.

• • Disturbed areas include (but are not limited to) footprints and other disturbances that may have been caused by players, animals, or other sources (this does not include a disturbance created as a result of a previous stroke).  When confronted with this situation, the player has the following options:
    • The player has the option to play the ball as it lies.
    • If the player takes free relief under Rule 16.1c, the player must drop the ball (from knee height) within one club length of the nearest point of relief or maximum available relief with the bunker,  no nearer to the hole.  The player is not permitted to place the ball unless the ball fails to stay within the relief area after two drops (Rule 14.3c).  If a drop creates a new disturbance (such as a plugged lied), the player is not entitled to relief from that disturbance or to take a second drop because of that disturbance.
    • As an added option under Rule 16.1c, for a penalty of one stroke, the player may elect to use back -on-line relief by dropping behind the bunker along the line formed by the hold and the spot where the ball was at rest in the bunker, boing back as far as the player wishes.

• Flagstick – For the safety and well-being of all, the flagstick is not to be touched and is to remain in the hole at all times.  Rule 13.2 is modified as follows:  A player is prohibited from making a stroke with the flagstick removed from the hole.  (NOTE:  touching the flagstick inadvertently and the subsequent replacement of the flagstick is not of itself a penalty.  Should a player inadvertently touch the flagstick, the player should take appropriate precautions and use hand sanitizer.  If a player needs to re-center the flagstick, he/she may do so using a club.)

                Penalty for Breach of Local Rule:

• • First Breach – General Penalty
  • Subsequent Breach – Disqualification

• Ball holed – The traditional definition of holed has been modified to say:  If any part of the ball is in the hole below the surface of the putting green, the ball is treated as holed even if the entire ball is not below the surface.  This definition will be used for hole inserts (such as plastic piping, pool noodles, etc.)  NOTE:  If the ball does bounce out of the hole, the ball is NOT considered holed.

• Scoring/Scorecard Verification – Players are encouraged to keep score using cell phones or some other means in lieu of a traditional scorecard.  At the conclusion of a round, a player’s scorecard is considered returned and final after all players in the group have verbally agreed to the hole-by-hole scores while at the scoring table following the conclusion of a round.  Once a player leaves the scoring area, no additional change to the player’s score can be made.  Failure of a player to return to the scoring area immediately following a round will result in the player’s disqualification.

Equipment:

· Golf equipment – Players should use their own equipment and golf balls. Players should not touch other players equipment or golf balls.

· Course equipment – Players should not touch the flagstick, bunker rakes or ball cleaning devices on the course.

· What kinds or brands of sanitizer should we be using – The IHSA SMAC recommends referencing and utilizing EPA registered disinfectants. Balls and equipment may be wiped with listed disinfectants and a damp cloth.

Hydration:

· All students shall bring their own water bottle. Water bottles must not be shared.

· Hydration stations (water cows, water trough, water fountains, etc.) should NOT be utilized.

Transportation:

• Schools may follow ISBE guidance for transporting students to athletic events.  If a team must return to the bus in inclement weather, there needs to be distancing for possible prolonged periods.  Masks must be worn while on the bus at all times.

Eating and drinking:

• Ensure 6 foot distance whenever athletes are eating or drinking.
• Replace face coverings immediately after eating or drinking.

 

Resources:

IHSA RETURN TO ACTIVITIES 1.0: https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:33115455-89ef-4f93-bdc7-86bbf7a6fd7d

IDPH SPORT SAFETY GUIDANCE: http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/sports-safety-guidance

 IDPH COVID-19 REGION MAPS: https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:37ae0de3-609b-4853-8622-b3b9c6d41781

 PGA BACK2GOLF: https://www.pga.org/coronavirus-resources/Back2Golf