Next week will mark the official start of high-risk sports across New York State if local health agencies grant the go-ahead. While many are happy, it might be difficult for certain school districts to increase safety precautions and games in a short period of time. Governor Andrew Cuomo said last Friday that if local health authorities allow it, high-risk sports practice and contests can start up again on February 1st.
Football coach Joe Spagnolo of Iona Prep in New Rochelle is eager to get back on the field. “It’s a huge deal for just school morale and just some positivity for the first time in a really long time for the boys,” according to Spagnolo.
Football, basketball, wrestling, and competitive cheerleading are just a few examples of high-risk sports.
“Just be patient for those of you who are anticipating the decision—positively or negatively—and how it will be implemented. We want to make sure that if we do open this up, we do it in a safe manner, so we’re doing our due diligence.”
George Latimer – Westchester County Executive
Nassau County Executive Laura Curran hailed the news on Long Island. She stated that each district will develop its own strategy for adhering to state regulations. “Sports are a terrific place for kids too, done in an organized atmosphere following safety rules,” Curran said. “School is a very safe place for kids.”
Meanwhile, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone unveiled a safety strategy to permit the return of these activities. “Testing is the basis of it. Weekly tests will be conducted by us in cooperation with our educational institutions,” Bellone assured.
Dr. Edwin Quezada, the Yonkers Superintendent, feels that quick, weekly testing is essential to resuming high-risk sports in Westchester. “Does Yonkers have the capacity to offer our pupils the quick test. High-risk sports should not be played without a strategy for surveillance testing,” cautioned Quezada.
According to County Executive George Latimer, the county is collaborating with the northern counties and the schools to develop a safe and workable strategy. By Friday, a final announcement is anticipated.
