NCHSAA extends mask mandate to all indoor, outdoor workouts
Posted December 1, 2020 12:55 p.m. EST
https://www.highschoolot.com/nchsaa-extends-mask-mandate-to-all-indoor-outdoor-workouts/19409220/By Nick Stevens, HighSchoolOT managing editor
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The N.C. High School Athletic Association has expanded its mask mandate for high school sports in North Carolina, following guidance from Governor Roy Cooper.
According to new guidance sent to member schools on Tuesday, student-athletes must wear masks during all skill development sessions whether they are held inside or outside. Previously, student-athletes did not have to wear masks while engaged in physical activity.
In addition, six feet of social distance must be kept during skill development sessions and the workouts are supposed to happen in small groups.
The guidelines do not change for volleyball athletes. Last month, the NCHSAA instituted a mask mandate for all indoor sports where athletes are required to wear masks for all workouts and practices. The mandate also said volleyball players would be required to wear masks during competitions.
For cross country, athletes are required to wear a mask at all times until the race begins. Once the athlete has completed the race, they are required to put the mask back on.
Swimmers and divers are expected to handle masks similarly to cross country runners. Masks are to be worn until a race or competition begins, then the swimmers and divers are to put the mask back on once they exit the pool.
Volleyball and cross country competitions began on Nov. 16 for NCHSAA member schools. Swimming and diving competition begins Dec. 7. Other sports won't begin competition until 2021.
The NCHSAA Board of Directors is scheduled to meet for its regularly winter meeting on Wednesday and Thursday this week. The coronavirus pandemic will be a major topic of discussion. Commissioner Que Tucker will address the media in a press conference at 3 p.m. on Thursday.