Winter “High Risk” High School Sports Postponed Indefinitely
The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) has indefinitely postponed all competition in “high-risk” sports, including basketball, ice hockey and wrestling and canceled all winter high school tournaments.
The decision was “reinforced by the increase in infection and hospitalization rates across the State.”
The NYSPHSAA-sponsored sports classified as “high” risk by the state Department of Health are basketball, boys’ lacrosse, competitive cheerleading, football, ice hockey, volleyball and wrestling.
According to the release, “low” and “moderate” risk sports are still permitted. In Section II, practices for bowling, boys’ swimming and diving and both Nordic and Alpine skiing are set to begin Monday.
Dr. Robert Zayas, executive director of the NYSPHSAA, said the organization is still hoping to play winter high-risk sports.
In a press release Zayas said, “When examining the feasibility of Winter State Championships, it became apparent that travel and overnight accommodations would create a unique challenge for our member schools. At this time, we must prioritize maximizing student participation without a focus on championship events.”