The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on nearly every part of society. From schools and businesses going into lockdown to some sports getting delayed indefinitely, the pandemic has affected daily life for countless people around the world. Sports, in particular, have been significantly impacted, as most sports require close contact with others, which do not follow social distancing guidelines. In an effort to bring sports back by the fall, organizations are working tirelessly to make this a reality. Based on current events, here is what spots well potentially look like in the fall.
High School Sports
There are a number of important factors to consider with high school sports when reopening in the fall. While every state differs based on their own grasp on the coronavirus pandemic, many have announced tentative conditions. The conditions include following the policies and procedures provided by the CDC. This will require schools to implement smaller practices for players to reduce the spread of the virus and would require adjustments on how many people attend competitions. For many states, the status of their fall sports will be determined by the next couple of months and will depend on its severity closer to the start of the school year.
College Sports
Unlike high school, many collegiate athletes live on campus in the dorms full-time at universities that range in size. College officials have been working tirelessly to determine the safest approach to the fall semester and how athletes could remain protected. Some universities that have resumed summer practices have implemented required coronavirus testing for any athletes returning to practice for the first time. They will also be required to retest for coronavirus every 7-10 days. Once sports begin in the fall, universities will be looking for other ways for fans to attend games without breaking social distancing guidelines implemented by the CDC.
Professional Sports
In response to the coronavirus pandemic, many sports seasons, including the NBA, MLB, and NHL, were put on hold indefinitely in the spring. While they have shifted towards a shorter season without fans, fall sports could be following a similar pattern. The NFL is planning on having the regular start on September 10th, 2020, but would be played without any fans in the arena. The start of the NFL season could be pushed back if the coronavirus pandemic is still a major threat to the public’s safety, and will be determined closer to its start date.