We continue to monitor updates with regard to opening our athletic fields for low or no contact sports which, under the Governor’s order includes baseball, softball, golf, tennis, track & field and swimming. Unfortunately, the guidance contradicts prior orders from the Governor’s office which effectively closed all K-12 schools through June 30. We’ve reviewed the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s (OHSAA) guidance which notes local health departments can make the decision to open athletic fields as the OHSAA does not have jurisdiction to mandate the opening of school owned athletic fields. This morning, we received notice from the Licking County Board of Health that our fields may open for youth leagues, but not for school sponsored sports as the prior order closed K-12 schools as noted earlier.
This afternoon, the Governor’s office indicated it will be working with OHSAA regarding school-related sporting activities to develop protocols to limit the spread of COVID-19. As guidance continues to evolve, we are going to wait to schedule any practices on our fields as school-related activities shall have priority and must be scheduled first before any others. Once we receive updated guidance, we will begin working with both the youth league as well as our school teams to schedule times on our athletic fields. However, our stadiums will remain closed for athletics, as per the official order. As guidance continues to evolve, we will continue to keep you updated. Lastly, for those involved in the youth sports leagues, there are mandatory requirements specific to baseball and softball that can be found here: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/static/responsible/Baseball-Softball.pdf
Thank you for your continued patience. As we receive additional guidance, we’ll be sure to update you.