NYSPHSAA CANCELS SPRING STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS, REGULAR SEASON REMAINS ON HOLD (2020-04-27)
Tioga County Sports Report
LATHAM, N.Y. — The New York State Public High School Athletic Association canceled the 2020 spring state championship events today. However, the regular season remains on hold.
Events affected by the announcement include boys and girls track & field, boys tennis, softball, baseball, boys and girls golf, and boys and girls lacrosse state championships scheduled to be held between June 4-13.
“Unfortunately, with the continued impact of the COVID-19 crisis, hosting the spring 2020 state championships is no longer feasible (time factor, facility and venue availability, etc.),†NYSPHSAA President Paul Harrica said in a press release. “Canceling the remaining winter state championships in late March was challenging and the cancelation of our spring state championships today is equally disappointing.â€
“Today’s decision is difficult for the membership of NYSPHSAA. We certainly sympathize with the students, coaches and their school communities, especially the graduating seniors," added Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director.
The NYSPHSAA will rely on the New York State Department of Health, local health departments and the governor’s office for information and guidance on COVID-19 and its impact upon the spring regular season.
As of today, the spring regular season remains on hold for nine of the 11 Sections; Section VIII and XI, both located on Long Island, canceled all spring events April 21. All other sections have the authority to decide whether to hold regular season contests.
The Interscholastic Athletic Conference and Southern Tier Athletic Conference, which have teams in Tioga County, are looking at comprising condensed schedules.
For student-athletes to return to athletic participation, schools need to be reopened by the governor. The date students can return to school will be key to determining a spring sports regular season.
Currently, schools must remain closed through Friday, May 15.
