Some different precautions, procedures were put in play to hopefully prevent virus spread
by Rebekah Roth, GHS Blue Ink
With the new precautions for COVID-19 in schools, there have been many changes to extracurricular activities, specifically sports. Garretson School has not postponed any sports seasons, however there have been several modifications to the procedures for games as well as practices.
When asked about how COVID-19 is affecting athletic activities, Mr. Kevin Steckler, the athletics director, gave some information on how Garretson High School is proceeding with athletic activities.
Many schools have postponed or canceled game seasons (such as Minnesota pushing back football and volleyball to the spring), but Garretson, and much of South Dakota, is continuing their regular sport schedule. “No games are being postponed, we’re operating our practices and games and functioning normally,” Mr. Steckler stated. Although, he noted, marching band has been greatly affected by COVID-19 as all but one competition has been canceled.
Still, there are precautions in place to help slow the spread of the virus. Masks are required in the weight room, with only 14 students occupying it at a time. Garretson High School is stressing social distancing whenever possible during practices and games, and athletes are even encouraged to ride to and from events with a parent.
Masks are not required for students while participating in games, but are highly suggested for spectators. Currently open attendance is permitted at games, with expectations in place for fans to maintain safe distance from each other. Students in grades K-5 are to sit with their parents at all times, and students in grades 6-12 are expected to sit in the student section or with a parent.
Mr. Steckler was questioned about what procedures would be taken if an athlete contracted COVID-19.
“We’d have to report the positive case to the South Dakota High School Activities Association (SDHSAA), as well as The Department of Health,” he said. If one of the participating students acquires coronavirus, they and anyone else who was in close contact would be quarantined for two weeks.
Garretson has not lost any athletes directly because of the pandemic, and students still have the same interest as years prior. Mr. Steckler mentioned that he’s big on students participating in activities while still educating them on the reality of the virus. He says it’s imperative that Garretson School keeps activities open for the students as it’s important for their mindsets, and there’s safety measures that can be put in place to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
