NC High Schools Postpone Fall Sports Workouts, Wait For State Guidance

Many North Carolina high schools were set to resume workouts for fall sports on Monday. But some are pushing back the start date. 

Governor Cooper was expected to outline a path forward for schools reopening last week. But districts are still waiting for that guidance. While sports teams are allowed to begin conditioning, schools say they need more information, supplies and resources.

That's because they have to follow specific safety guidelines. Currently, no weights, balls or other equipment will be used. Students and staff will have temperature checks and spots on fields will be marked to ensure social distancing.

John Sullivan, the Athletic Director for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, says many students miss their routine.

“They've been dealing with a lot,” he says. “This is a chance for them to see their coaches, see their friends, maybe they haven't seen all of their teammates, so this could a good thing mentally for kids to just be around their teammates again.”

Sullivan says the district now plans to resume workouts on July 20.

On Friday, Guilford County Schools also announced changes. The district will restart athletic conditioning and marching band activities July 20, pending further public health guidance or executive orders.

Schedules for fall sports have already been set, but it's still unclear if those games will be played.

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