Following the recent recommendation to keep Iowa schools closed for the remainder of the school year, the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union and the Iowa High School Athletic Association have jointly decided that all spring sports activities are now canceled. This includes golf, soccer, tennis and track & field. The decision was made in cooperation with the Iowa Department of Education and state officials, and was approved by both governing boards for high school sports in Iowa. This cancellation is effective for al spring practices, competitions and postseason events.
“While we are disappointed that our student-athletes will not have the opportunity to compete this spring, we remain committed to our primary goal of keeping students, coaches, officials and communities safe.” Said IHSAA executive director Tom Keating. “This cancellation comes out of an abundance of caution for the well-being of all. Conducting our spring season would involve moving groups of people in and out of various communities for competition. At this time we believe that is a risk we should not take.”
The continued spread of COVID-19 has caused an unsatisfying and unfortunate end to the 2019-20 school year as students across Iowa and the Nation have faced cancellations and suspensions of both school and athletic competition. The IGHSAU and the IHSAA would like to thank all spring sports participants, coaches, administrators, officials and spectators for their passion, patience and effort during this unprecedented time.
“We understand the important role that athletics and activities play in the lives of our students, schools and communities,” said IGHSAU executive director Jean Berger. “But during this time of uncertainty, we must support the health and safety recommendations of our state and national leaders. This decision is especially heartbreaking for our senior competitors, and we thank them for all they have done to represent their schools throughout their careers.”
The summer sports of softball and baseball are suspended pending an assessment made in collaboration with state officials before June 1st. Practice, competition and postseason dates will be announced when they become available. Both organizations will continue to follow guidelines from health and government officials in determining when it is safe to resume school activities and mass gatherings.
In the 2018-19 school year, the four high school spring sports accounted for over 45,000 participants among Iowa high school boys and girls. Track & field was the second most popular sport by participation for both the IGHSAU (9,908 student-athletes) and the IHSAA (12,012). Both governing bodies continue to encourage member schools and communities to follow the guidance of Governor Kim Reynolds and the Iowa Department of Public Health. Updates will continue to be made online and shared with member schools on summer and 2020-21 activities.
