
As shared previously, the Governor and IDPH announced additional updates to Illinois Sports Guidelines, which will allow for all sports including High Risk Sports (Basketball and Football) to be played if a Region is in Phase 4. We are in Region 6, which currently is in Phase 4 mitigation status.
Below is the most up to date information we have from the IDPH, IHSA, IESA; and regarding Game Schedules, Spectators, Streaming, Athlete Return to Play after Co-Vid, Cheer, Dance, Band, and 8th Grade/Senior Nights.
IDPH
IDPH Illinois sports Guidance, January 22, 2021
IHSA
The IHSA met Wednesday, January 27, to set season schedules for the remainder of the year.
Click here for the IHSA Sports Season Schedule
Click here for the entire IHSA Press Release
IESA
The IESA, which governs our Junior High Sports, has also set season schedules.
Click here for the IESA Sports Season Schedule
Game Schedules
Mr. Keown, is working diligently to finalize schedules for both conference play and non-conference play. Schedules linked below are tentative for Winter Sports and HS Football. Additions and other changes are possible. HS Volleyball, JH Girls Basketball, and traditional Spring Sports are still under construction.
JH Girls Volleyball Tentative Schedule
JH Boys Basketball Tentative Schedule
HS Girls Basketball Tentative Schedule
HS Boys Basketball Tentative Schedule
HS JV Football Tentative Schedule
HS Varsity Football Tentative Schedule
Spectators for Winter Sports
Per the IDPH, depending on space available after accounting for participants, coaches, officials, game workers, etc., Schools are allowed up to 50 spectators per game. Marshall Schools, the LEIC Conference, the LIC Conference, and most non-conference opponents have agreed that the 50 spectators will include home spectators only.
For Marshall Schools Winter Sports Home Games, each player will receive a minimum of 2 tickets per home game. In some sports with fewer players, additional tickets may be distributed to the players. For JH Basketball and JH Volleyball, 7th grade spectators will leave following their game prior to the 8th grade spectators entering the gym. Socially distanced pairs of seats will be marked in the bleachers. Spectators must have the pre-printed ticket for entry, must mask, will be temperature checked, and there will be no food or drink allowed. More details will be provided before the first home game for each sport.
Streaming for Home Games & Road Games
WMMC and Marshall Schools are partnering to provide at minimum a video stream for each home contest at all levels. For most Varsity Games and some Junior Varsity and Junior High contests there will be accompanying audio from WMMC.
For road games, all LEIC and LIC schools and most non-conference opponents will provide a livestream link for us to share with parents and fans to view. WMMC will livestream some Varsity road games as well.
Athlete Return to Play Acclimatization after Co-Vid
After an athlete has tested positive and is released from quarantine due to Co-Vid, there is a Return to Play Acclimatization Protocol that must be followed which is outlined below. More details will be shared with an athlete and parents if /when this occurs.
Athlete Return to Play Acclimatization after Co-Vid
Cheer & Dance
For the indoor Winter Sports, there will not be sideline cheer or dance performances.
HS Cheer is participating in a virtual cheer competition during the Winter Season and we plan on both HS Cheer and Dance being on the sideline and performing during the outdoor football season.
With the lack of an outdoor season, we are looking at the possibility of Cheer and Dance clinics for any students interested that would culminate in a performance for parents.
Band / Pep Band / Music
For the indoor Winter Sports, pep band will not play. As is the case with Cheer and Dance, we plan on the pep band being a part of the outdoor football season.
At both the JH and HS level, we are working on spring concerts for both band and chorus with limited spectators and live streaming available.
8th Grade Nights / Senior Nights
We are working on plans for 8th Grade and Senior Nights in some form.
While it is exciting to know that the opportunities outlined above will happen, we also know that it is very limited. We know that what has been shared here is not ideal, but please know that we are doing our best for everyone involved in a tough situation.
As we have more details and more answers, those will be provided as soon as possible.
Also remember that this whole situation is fluid and as we have seen can change for the good or bad at any time, so we thank you in advance for your continued patience and cooperation.
Thank you for your continued patience and cooperation!