Junior High sports allowed to resume

After the governor's news conference Wednesday that extended through Dec. 16 a COVID-19 emergency proclamation that imposed some mask requirements and put limitations on the size of gatherings, the Iowa High School Athletic Association and the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union then issued press rfeleases of their own clarifying some things regarding schools.

In the Nov. 17 edict, schools didn't receive clarifications from the athletic association until two days had passed.

Under an order the governor issued last month, all Iowans must wear a face covering while indoors in public and within 6 feet to others for 15 minutes as part of an ongoing effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Reynolds said organized sports and recreational events, including bowling leagues, may resume for youth and adults, but spectators are still limited to two per participant.

'The same two-spectator rule that also extends to high school athletes will be extended to spectators for cheerleaders, band members and others performing at high-school sporting events,” she said.

School districts may allow youth sports to use district facilities provided spectator limits, social distancing and mask requirements are followed.

The youth sports means junior high activities can resume starting today.

'We will discuss in more depth if we plan to open up our gyms and facilities for youth organizations such as youth basketball or softball teams,” Mid-Prairie athletic director Tyler Hotz said.

One change is that cheerleaders, pep band and dance teams performing are allowed two tickets as are coaches. Timers, scorekeepers, ticket takers, student managers and videographers are not allowed tickets.