Return to Interscholastic High-Risk Athletics Standard Operating Procedures COVID-19 Guidelines 2021

INTRODUCTION

The Watervliet City School District recognizes the necessity to enforce all of the precautions that must be taken to keep students and staff safe during this COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, the district is aware of the importance of providing, to the greatest extent practicable, opportunities for students who have been deprived of extracurricular activities of all types for nearly a year.

On Friday, January 22, 2021 Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that school-sponsored “high risk” sports in all regions may begin to practice and play beginning February 1 with local county health department approval. Subsequently, Albany County Department of Health created a detailed set of guidelines (released January 29, 2021) under which individual school districts could secure the needed approval.

On Monday, February 8, 2021, Albany County announced that high-risk sports were officially authorized provided each district obtain approval from school health officials and the Board of Education.

According to the Albany County DOH guidelines and requirements, a plan must be developed and approved by both the Watervliet City School District’s Medical Director (School Physician) and the Watervliet City School District’s Board of Education. To that end, the district has developed the following plan to offer an abbreviated athletic season for high-risk sports and athletic training sessions for some teams, in a manner that addresses all aspects of the Albany County Department of Health Guidance and Requirements For Resumption of K-12 Higher-Risk Sports Activities.

On February 11, 2021, the Watervliet City School’s District Board of Education approved high-risk winter sports. After obtaining approval from the Albany County Department of Health (DOH) and the District’s Medical Director, winter sports began and have run successfully and safely with protocols in place.

HEALTH-RELATED REQUIREMENTS

Baseline For Return to Athletics: In compliance with the DOH recommendations, the 7-day rolling average percent positivity in Albany county must be at or below 4.0%. If the 7-day rolling average percent positivity is above 4.0%, then activities will be restricted to individual or distanced group training or organized no/low-contact group training. In addition, we will abide by the following metrics:

The region’s hospital capacity (percent of hospital beds available) must be above 15%, as calculated by NYSDOH.
The region’s rate of hospital admissions must not be unacceptably high or require additional interventions to control the rate of increase, as determined by NYSDOH.
The absence of other emerging epidemiological data, information or factors as determined or identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) or Albany County Department of Health Services (DOH) that impact COVID-19 control or mitigation.
If school is closed for in person education due to an increase in COVID-19 cases, school sponsored sports/conditioning will be suspended until in person education is resumed.

Testing: The district will cooperate with all testing protocols for athletes, coaches, and officials as advised by the Albany County DOH. Student athletes will be required to participate in random rapid COVID testing through the Watervliet City School District.

Health Screening: The NYSED has extended the validity of school sport physicals through the end of the 2021 school year. Any student athlete who had a physical in the 2018-19 or 2019-20 sport seasons can get medically cleared for Winter 2021/Fall 2 season with an updated Interval Health History form to be submitted within 30 days of the start of the season. Any student athlete who did not have a sport physical during that time frame MUST obtain a new one.

Health History: Beginning with the Fall 2020 season, member schools should update their health history documents to include questions regarding COVID-19 infections and diagnosis. These questions will be used by the school health care providers to identify those student-athletes who may require additional medical screening before being cleared for sports. Recommendations for these changes can be found in the NYSPHSAA Return to Athletics document.

Informed Consent: All parents/guardians and student athletes will sign an informed consent emailed to each student’s school gmail account, prior to the start of athletic participation. Parents/guardians and student athletes will be required to sign consent for random rapid COVID testing through the Watervliet City School District.

In addition, each parent/guardian, student athlete, school official, coach, referee, and/or manager will agree to fully cooperate with case investigations and contact tracing and adhere to isolation and quarantine orders.

General Athletic Considerations for the COVID-19 Pandemic

Attendance: All coaches will be required to maintain daily records of attendance for all practice/competitive sessions. Attendance will be recorded for the purposes of contact tracing if necessary.

Attestation: All Watervliet City School District coaches and players will be required to complete the daily COVID-19 Health Screening online form prior to entering facilities. Student athletes must stay home if they are ill to protect other students/staff. Access the form

Bathrooms: Bathrooms will be available with no more than 2 student athletes occupying a bathroom at any one time. Locker rooms will be off limits.

Contact :To limit student/staff exposure shaking hands, high-fives, fist bumps, hugs or other physical contact between athletes/coaches is prohibited.

Drills/Exercises: Student athletes will be expected to perform all exercises individually unless directed otherwise. Social distancing will be maintained at all times as practicable.

Entrance/Exit: All coaches and student athletes will enter through the main doors of the Watervliet Jr/Sr High School. Student athletes should arrive no more than 10 minutes prior to their assigned workout time. All athletes should come prepared to participate, in proper attire. No locker room access will be granted. All athletes will be expected to leave the school facility and school grounds upon completion of their training session. Loitering in hallways, gyms or office areas at the end of training sessions is strictly prohibited.

Face Coverings: Section 2 is taking a slightly more restrictive approach to the NYSDOH guidance on facemasks. NYSDOH states that “individuals must wear acceptable face coverings, unless players are unable to tolerate a face covering for the physical activity (practicing/playing) in which a doctor’s note is required.” It is important that face coverings are not only worn properly at ALL times, but that the mask fits the individual and is worn over the nose and below the chin. Coaches, trainers, and other individuals who are not directly engaged in physical activity are required to wear a face covering at all times.

Shared Equipment: Athletes and coaches are responsible for disinfecting any piece of equipment between uses. Equipment includes, but is not limited to, dumbbells, free weights, benches, balls, ropes, shot put/discus, batons.

Social Distancing: Coaches and athletes will practice social distancing as practicable. Student athletes will maintain a distance of 12 feet apart during heavy breathing activities, as practicable.

Hygiene: Student athletes are encouraged to shower shortly after arriving home after practice/competition. Hand sanitizing stations will be set up throughout the gym/field.

Water Bottles: Each coach and student athlete should bring their own filled water bottle labeled with their name. Water fountains will be available to refill personal water bottles. No water bottles should be shared between athletes at any time.

COMPETITIONS

Fall 2 High/Medium Risk Sports: The Fall 2 (2021) conditioning season for high and medium risk sports will commence on, or about, Sunday, March 7 and will conclude on, or about, April 30, 2021. Section 2 Athletics has determined that during the Fall 2 – 2021 sports season, no sectionals will be conducted.

Winter High Risk Sports: The Winter 2021 conditioning season for high risk sports will commence on, or about, Monday, February 8 and will conclude on, or about, March 13, 2021. Section 2 Athletics has determined that during the Winter 2021 sports season, no sectionals will be conducted.

Transportation: Watervliet City School District will follow their district procedures for transportation of students to and from an athletic event. View Transportation Guidelines

Arrival at Facility: All visiting players, coaches and team personnel will be wearing masks, at all times and adhering to social distancing guidelines. Teams should come ready to play and in uniform. Each athlete will have their own water bottle, filled and labeled with their name.

Pregame and postgame: There will be no shaking hands during introductions. Traditional pre-game introductions will be altered to ensure social distancing occurs. There shall be no postgame game hand shakes, hugs and/or fist bumps.

Bench Setup: All accommodations should be made for social distancing while athletes are in the bench area.

Spectators: NO spectators will be permitted for the Winter 2021 High Risk sports season.

For the Fall 2 sports season, NO spectators will be permitted for indoor sports (volleyball). Spectators will be limited to two (2) per student athlete for outdoor events (soccer and football). Spectators must possess an official “entrance pass” to be allowed into the venue at all Colonial Council events.

Schedules: As part of the return the play protocols for the Winter 2021 High Risk sports season, the Colonial Council has reduced league schedules to the following number of scheduled contests:

Boys and Girls Basketball – max of 13 league games
Cheerleading – permitted to participate at all home games
Wrestling – max of 8 contests

As part of the return the play protocols for the Fall 2 (2021) high and medium risk sports season, the Colonial Council has reduced league schedules to the following number of scheduled contests:

Football- max of contests dependent on number of teams participating
Cheerleading – permitted to cheer at home events
Boys’ and Girls’ Soccer – max of 16 contests
Girls’ Volleyball – max of 16 contests

Game times can be changed by mutual agreement of member schools.

Honoring the Schedule: It is the expectation of member schools to work to honor all games in the Colonial Council schedule during the course of the season barring local Department of Health Regulations per individual county.

Out of Section Games: For the Winter 2021 season, Colonial Council member
schools have agreed to all games to be played inside the boundaries of Section 2.

For the Fall 2 (2021) season, Colonial Council member schools have agreed that all games will be played inside the boundaries of Section 2.

SPORT SPECIFIC MODIFICATIONS

Football (Fall 2)

Facility Entrance Procedures

Student athletes will arrive at the facility in practice/ game attire (no pads).
Student athletes will be allowed to enter the team locker room to put their football equipment (pads) on over their practice clothing.
Student athletes will exit the building via the doors to the top of the bleachers off of the main lobby and proceed to the turf area for practices and games.
Student athletes will have masks in place covering their mouth and nose.
Health screenings for athletes, coaches, officials, and essential game workers are required.
If an athlete is showing any symptoms, they are not allowed to practice and must be sent home immediately. Athletes will wait in a designated area, away from others, until picked up.
Always maintain at least 6-feet distance unless engaging in team or partner drills or execution.
Student athletes should arrive no more than 30 minutes prior to the activity. Student athletes will be dropped off in front of the main doors of the high school and enter with their attestation completed.
If the entrance is crowded, and maintaining 6 feet between athletes is not possible, please wait in the car until the crowd clears.
Two (2) spectators per student athlete will be allowed to attend outdoor competitions. Every spectator must possess an “official guest pass” given to their student athlete prior to the game.
Spectators will be expected to maintain strict social-distancing guidelines and wear masks properly throughout the event.
Any items brought into the facility (towel, clothes, shoes, or gear) shall be placed in the designated area spread 6 feet apart.
Practice gear will be washed or disinfected intermittently by school staff.
Coaches will take attendance.

Facility Exit Procedure

Student athletes will exit the turf area and enter the high school using the main doors accessible through the bleachers.
Students will remove their practice gear and place it in their assigned locker with the door open for disinfecting purposes.
Student athletes will exit from the building through the main doors.
Hand-sanitizer will be available on the way out.
Student athletes will exit the building and head directly to their car/ride or begin walking home.
There is no congregating.
Parents/guardians should plan to arrive early for pick-up to avoid any possible exposure.
After practices, it is the student athlete/family’s responsibility to disinfect any items set down at the facility.

General Recommended Considerations

Student athletes, coaches, and staff should wash hands or use hand sanitizer before, during, and after competitions.
There will be no use of locker rooms other than for storage of equipment.
Acceptable face coverings for COVID-19 include but are not limited to cloth based face coverings and disposable masks that cover both the mouth and nose.
Employees must wear face coverings at all times during practice or competition.
Face coverings must be cleaned or replaced after use and may not be shared. Please consult the CDC guidance for additional information on cloth face coverings and other types of PPE, as well as instructions on use and cleaning.
Student athletes will be responsible for their own supplies.
Footballs and any practice equipment will be sanitized in between uses or as often as possible during activity.
Practice drills and pre-game warm up activities will be individualized whenever possible. Any shared equipment is discouraged.
Hand-to-hand contact is discouraged (no hugging, shaking hands, or fist bumps).
Personal items should be clearly labeled.

Competitions

Pregame conference attendees will be limited to the referee and head coach from each team.
Pregame conference; all individuals will maintain a social distance of 6 feet or greater at the center circle.
Bench personnel will be limited to observing from a distance of 6 feet or greater.
Contact between players when entering or exiting the playing field will be prohibited.
The press box will be limited to essential personnel which includes the home team bookkeeper, timer, and shot clock operator with a recommended distance of 6 feet or greater between individuals. Other personnel (visiting scorer, statisticians, media, etc.) will be escorted to an alternate location.
All handshakes, fist bumps, and similar gestures will be eliminated, pre- and post-game.
Sanitized game balls will be given to officials prior to the game and will not be used for warm-ups.
The game ball will be sanitized during time-outs and in between quarters.
Sanitizer will be provided by the district and carried by assigned personnel on each team.
Long-sleeved shirts are permissible.
Any athlete not in compliance with safety guidance will be sent home immediately and subject to further consequences. No warnings will be issued.

Considerations for Athletes

Each student athlete is responsible for their own supplies.
Student athletes should wear their own appropriate workout clothing/uniform (do not share clothing)
Individual clothing/towels should be washed and cleaned after every workout immediately upon returning home.
It is strongly encouraged that student athletes shower immediately upon arriving home after practice/competitions.
Bring your own water bottle.

Considerations for Parents

Provide personal items for your child and clearly label them.
Spectators will be limited to two (2) per student athlete for outdoor competitions. This will be strictly enforced.

Considerations for Coaches

Disinfect and use hand sanitizer regularly.
Wipe down any shared equipment as often as possible during activity.
All safety measures must be strictly enforced and adhered to.
Parents/guardians and student athletes must sign off on district and coaches’ expectations.
Supervise players after practices to ensure that masks are worn, social distancing is maintained, and athletes have been picked up. Coaches are the last people to leave the building.

Spectators

Games will be live streamed if permitted by Section 2 and NYSPHSAA
Outdoor competitions will allow for two (2) spectators per student athlete with an “official spectator pass.”

Soccer (Fall 2)

Facility Entrance Procedures

Student athletes will arrive at the facility in competitive attire.
Student athletes will have masks in place covering their mouth and nose.
Health screenings for athletes, coaches, officials, and essential game workers are required.
If an athlete is showing any symptoms, they are not allowed to practice and must be sent home immediately. Athletes will wait in a designated area, away from others, until picked up.
Always maintain at least 6-feet distance.
Student athletes should arrive no more than 15 minutes prior to the activity. Student athletes will be dropped off in front of the main gate leading to the turf field.
If the entrance is crowded, and maintaining 6 feet between athletes is not possible, please wait in the car until the crowd clears.
No spectators will be allowed inside the facility.
Any items brought into the facility (towel, clothes, shoes, or gear) shall be placed in the designated area spread 6 feet apart.
Coaches will take attendance.

Facility Exit Procedure

Student athletes will exit the turf field and head directly to their car/ride or begin walking home.
There is no congregating anywhere on the property.
Parents/guardians should plan to arrive early for pick-up to avoid any possible exposure.
After practices, it is the student athlete/family’s responsibility to disinfect any items set down at the facility.

General Recommended Considerations:

Student athletes, coaches, and staff should wash hands or use hand sanitizer before, during, and after competitions.
There will be no use of locker rooms until further notice.
Acceptable face coverings for COVID-19 include but are not limited to cloth-based face coverings and disposable masks that cover both the mouth and nose.
Employees must wear face coverings at all times during practice or competition.
Face coverings must be cleaned or replaced after use and may not be shared. Please consult the CDC guidance for additional information on cloth face coverings and other types of PPE, as well as instructions on use and cleaning.
Student athletes should be responsible for their own supplies.
Soccer balls and any practice equipment will be sanitized in between uses or as often as possible during activity.
Athletes will each be assigned an area on the sideline to place their belongings, 6 feet apart from others. This is the area they will return to for water breaks.
Only team members are allowed on the turf.
Eliminate all fist bumps, handshakes, hugs and body contact to the greatest extent possible.
It is strongly encouraged that athletes shower immediately upon arriving home after practice/meets.
Any athlete not in compliance with safety measures will be sent home immediately and subject to further consequences. No warnings will be issued.

Competitions

No handshakes or voluntary contact during pre/post match ceremonies.
Washing stations or hand sanitizer will be placed near each team’s bench.
Official scoresheet will only be handled by the scorekeeper.
Only the official scorer and timer will be permitted in the press box.

Considerations for Athletes

Bring your own water bottle.
No sharing of personal equipment, towel or clothing.
Recommended that each athlete bring their own supplies.
Bathroom use is limited to two people at a time.
It is strongly encouraged that athletes change out of practice clothing/uniform and shower immediately upon returning home.

Reminders for Coaches

Coaches will have hand sanitizer, cleaning supplies, and masks available for each practice and game.
Water jugs will not be used during games or practices.
Coaches, scorekeepers, trainers, timers must properly wear a mask at all times.
Accurate records of attendance for games and practices is mandatory.
Parents/guardians and student athletes must sign off on district and coaches’ expectations.
Enforce all safety protocols and expectations
Supervise players after practices to ensure that masks are worn, social distancing is maintained, and athletes have been picked up. Coaches are the last people to leave the building.

Spectators

Each athlete will be allowed 2 spectators per contest. Spectators must be in possession of an “official game pass” provided to their student athlete by the coach, prior to the game.
Games will be live streamed.

Considerations for Officials

Officials are responsible for management of soccer games, which does not include monitoring social distancing, face coverings, hand washing, symptoms of illnesses and other such issues.
Bring hand sanitizer. Wash hands frequently.
Do not share uniforms, towels and equipment.
Change standard whistle to electronic whistle if possible. Electronic whistles are permissible.
Officials may wear disposable gloves. Gloves must be changed after each match.

Volleyball (Fall 2)

Facility Entrance Procedures

Student athletes will arrive at the facility in practice/ game attire.
Student athletes will have masks in place covering their mouth and nose.
Health screenings for athletes, coaches, officials, and essential game workers are required.
If an athlete is showing any symptoms, they are not allowed to practice and must be sent home immediately. Athletes will wait in a designated area, away from others, until picked up.
Always maintain at least 6-feet distance unless engaging in team or partner drills or execution.
Student athletes should arrive no more than 30 minutes prior to the activity. Student athletes will be dropped off in front of the main doors of the high school and enter through the main doors with their attestation completed.
If the entrance is crowded, and maintaining 6 feet between athletes is not possible, please wait in the car until the crowd clears.
No spectators will be allowed inside the facility.
Any items brought into the facility (towel, clothes, shoes, or gear) shall be placed in the designated area spread 6 feet apart.
Practice gear will be washed or disinfected intermittently by school staff.
Coaches will take attendance.

Facility Exit Procedure

Athletes will exit the gym through the side doors of the gymnasium directly to the parking lot area.
Students will remove their practice gear and place it in their assigned locker with the door open for disinfecting purposes.
Hand-sanitizer will be available on the way out.
Student athletes will exit the building and head directly to their car/ride or begin walking home.
There is no congregating.
Parents/guardians should plan to arrive early for pick-up to avoid any possible exposure.
After practices, it is the student athlete/family’s responsibility to disinfect any items set down at the facility.

General Recommended Considerations

Student athletes, coaches, and staff should wash hands or use hand sanitizer before, during, and after competitions.
There will be no use of locker rooms other than for storage of equipment.
Acceptable face coverings for COVID-19 include but are not limited to cloth-based face coverings and disposable masks that cover both the mouth and nose.
Employees must wear face coverings at all times during practice or competition.
Face coverings must be cleaned or replaced after use and may not be shared. Please consult the CDC guidance for additional information on cloth face coverings and other types of PPE, as well as instructions on use and cleaning.
Student athletes will be responsible for their own supplies.
Volleyballs and any practice equipment will be sanitized in between uses or as often as possible during activity.
Practice drills and pre-game warm up activities will be individualized whenever possible. Any shared equipment is discouraged.
Hand-to-hand contact is discouraged (no hugging, shaking hands, or fist bumps).
Personal items should be clearly labeled.

Competitions

Pregame conference attendees will be limited to the referees and head coach from each team.
Pregame conference; all individuals will maintain a social distance of 6 feet or greater at the designated conference area.
Bench personnel will be limited to observing from a distance of 6 feet or greater.
Contact between players when entering or exiting the playing surface will be prohibited.
The scorer’s table will be limited to essential personnel which includes the home team bookkeeper and clock operator with a recommended distance of 6 feet or greater between individuals. Other personnel (visiting scorer, statisticians, media, etc.) may not be deemed essential personnel and will be at an alternate location.
All handshakes, fist bumps, and similar gestures will be eliminated, pre- and post-game.
Sanitized game balls will be given to officials prior to the game and will not be
The game ball will be sanitized during time-outs and between quarters.
Sanitizer will be provided by the district and carried by assigned personnel on each team.
Long-sleeved shirts are permissible.
Any athlete not in compliance with safety guidance will be sent home immediately and subject to further consequences. No warnings will be issued.

Considerations for Athletes

Each student athlete is responsible for their own supplies.
Student athletes should wear their own appropriate workout clothing/uniform (do not share clothing)
Individual clothing/towels should be washed and cleaned after every workout immediately upon returning home.
It is strongly encouraged that student athletes shower immediately upon arriving home after practice/competitions.
Bring your own water bottle.

Considerations for Parents

Provide personal items for your child and clearly label them.
NO spectators will be allowed into the facility. All games will be live streamed.

Considerations for Coaches

Disinfect and use hand sanitizer regularly.
Wipe down any shared equipment as often as possible during activity.
All safety measures must be strictly enforced and adhered to.
Parents/guardians and student athletes must sign off on district and coaches’ expectations.
Supervise players after practices to ensure that masks are worn, social distancing is maintained, and athletes have been picked up. Coaches are the last people to leave the building.

Spectators

No spectators (exception: Senior Night – 2 spectators per senior student athlete)
Games will be live streamed

Basketball (Winter)

Facility Entrance Procedures

Student athletes will arrive at the facility in competitive attire.
Student athletes will have masks in place covering their mouth and nose.
Health screenings for athletes, coaches, officials, and essential game workers are required.
If an athlete is showing any symptoms, they are not allowed to practice and must be sent home immediately. Athletes will wait in a designated area, away from others, until picked up.
Always maintain at least 6-feet distance.
Student athletes should arrive no more than 15 minutes prior to the activity.
Student athletes will be dropped off in front of the main doors of the Jr/Sr
High School and enter through the main doors with their attestation completed.
Upon entering the gymnasium student athletes will use hand sanitizer.
If the entrance is crowded, and maintaining 6 feet between athletes is not
possible, please wait in the car until the crowd clears.
No spectators will be allowed inside the facility.
Any items brought into the facility (towel, clothes, shoes, or gear) shall be placed in the designated area spread 6 feet apart.
Coaches will take attendance.

Facility Exit Procedure:

Student athletes will retrieve their belongings in the bag drop off area.
Hand-sanitizer will be available on the way out.
Student athletes will exit the gymnasium and head directly to their car/ride or
begin walking home.
There is no congregating.
Parents/guardians should plan to arrive early for pick-up to avoid any possible
exposure.
After practices, it is the student athlete/family’s responsibility to disinfect any
items set down at the facility.

General Recommended Considerations:

Student athletes, coaches, and staff should wash hands or use hand sanitizer
before, during, and after competitions.
There will be no use of locker rooms until further notice.
Acceptable face coverings for COVID-19 include but are not limited to
cloth-based face coverings and disposable masks that cover both the mouth and nose.
Employees must wear face coverings at all times during practice or competition.
Face coverings must be cleaned or replaced after use and may not be shared. Please consult the CDC guidance for additional information on cloth face coverings and other types of PPE, as well as instructions on use and cleaning.
Student athletes will be responsible for their own supplies.
Basketballs and any practice equipment will be sanitized in between uses or as
often as possible during activity.
Practice drills and pre-game warm up activities will be individualized whenever
possible. Any shared equipment is discouraged.
Hand-to-hand contact is discouraged (no hugging, shaking hands, or fist bumps).
Personal items should be clearly labeled.

Competitions

Pregame conference attendees will be limited to the referee and head coach
from each team. Coaches will stand on the center circle on each side of the
division line ensuring social distancing takes place.
Pregame conference; all individuals will maintain a social distance of 6 feet or
greater at the center circle.
Bench personnel will be limited to observing from a distance of 6 feet or greater.
Contact between players when substituting will be limited.
The official’s table will be sanitized before the game and at halftime.
The official’s table will be limited to essential personnel which includes the home team bookkeeper, timer, and shot clock operator with a recommended distance of 6 feet or greater between individuals. Other personnel
(visiting scorer, statisticians, media, etc.) may not be deemed essential personnel and will be at an alternate location.
All handshakes, fist bumps, and similar gestures will be eliminated, pre- and
post-game.
Sanitized game ball will be given to officials prior to the game and will not be
used for warm-ups.
The game ball will be sanitized during time-outs and between quarters.
Sanitizer will be provided by the district at the official’s table.
Long-sleeved shirts are permissible.
Any athlete not in compliance with safety guidance will be sent home immediately and subject to further consequences. No warnings will be issued.

Considerations for Athletes:

Each student athlete is responsible for their own supplies.
Student athletes should wear their own appropriate workout clothing/uniform (do not share clothing)
Individual clothing/towels should be washed and cleaned after every workout
immediately upon returning home.
It is strongly encouraged that student athletes shower immediately upon arriving home after practice/competitions.
Bring your own water bottle.

Considerations for Parents:

Provide personal items for your child and clearly label them.
There will be NO spectators permitted until further notice

Considerations for Coaches:

Disinfect and use hand sanitizer regularly.
Wipe down any shared equipment as often as possible during activity.
All safety measures must be strictly enforced and adhered to.
Parents/guardians and student athletes must sign off on district and coaches’
expectations.
Supervise players after practices to ensure that masks are worn, social
distancing is maintained, and athletes have been picked up. Coaches are the
last people to leave the building.

Spectators

No Spectators (exception: Senior Night – 2 spectators per senior
student athlete)
Games will be live streamed

WRESTLING (Winter)

Facility Entrance Procedures

Student athletes will arrive at the facility in competitive attire.
Student athletes will have masks in place covering their mouth and nose.
Health screenings for athletes, coaches, officials, and essential game workers
are required.
If an athlete is showing any symptoms, they are not allowed to practice and must be sent home immediately. Athletes will wait in a designated area, away from others, until picked up.
Always maintain at least 6-feet distance.
Student athletes should arrive no more than 15 minutes prior to the activity.
Student athletes will be dropped off in front of the main doors of the Jr/Sr
High School and enter through the main doors with their attestation completed.
Upon entering the gymnasium student athletes will use hand sanitizer.
If the entrance is crowded, and maintaining 6 feet between athletes is not
possible, please wait in the car until the crowd clears.
No spectators will be allowed inside the facility.
Any items brought into the facility (towel, clothes, shoes, or gear) shall be placed in the designated area spread 6 feet apart.
Coaches will take attendance.

Facility Exit Procedure:

Student athletes will retrieve their belongings in the bag drop off area.
On the way to the exit, hand-sanitizer will be available.
Student athletes exit the gymnasium and head directly to their car/ride or begin walking home.
There is no congregating anywhere on the property.
Parents/guardians should plan to arrive early for pick-up to avoid any possible
exposure.
After practices, it is the student athlete/family’s responsibility to disinfect any
items set down at the facility.

General Recommended Considerations:

Student athletes, coaches, and staff should wash hands or use hand sanitizer
before, during, and after competitions.
There will be no use of locker rooms until further notice.
Acceptable face coverings for COVID-19 include but are not limited to
cloth-based face coverings and disposable masks that cover both the mouth and nose.
Employees must wear face coverings at all times during practice or competition.
Face coverings must be cleaned or replaced after use and may not be shared.
Please consult the CDC guidance for additional information on cloth face
coverings and other types of PPE, as well as instructions on use and cleaning.
Student athletes should be responsible for their own supplies.
Ropes, weight equipment, throwing dummies, smash balls and any practice
equipment will be sanitized in between uses or as often as possible during
activity.
Athletes will each be assigned an area in the wrestling room or hallway area to
place their belongings, 6 feet apart from others. This is the area they will return to for water breaks.
Each level/team will be assigned gym space and is only allowed in the gym
during their assigned time. No mixing of groups/levels allowed. Practice
sessions will be assigned with time in between so one group has time to leave
before another arrives. Cleaning/sanitizing will take place in between groups.
Only team members are allowed in the wrestling room area.
Eliminate all fist bumps, handshakes, hugs and body contact to the greatest
extent possible.
It is strongly encouraged that wrestlers shower immediately upon arriving home after practice/meets.
No more than 14 wrestlers on the mat at a time in the wrestling room.
After contact with another player, wrestlers should wipe themselves off with
sanitizing cloths as well as immediately wash hands.
Mats must be cleaned and disinfected at the end of each practice.
Any athlete not in compliance with safety measures will be sent home
immediately and subject to further consequences. No warnings will be
issued.

Matches

No handshakes prior to and following the coin toss in addition to pre- and
post-match ceremonies.
Washing stations or hand sanitizer will be placed at mat side.
No sharing pens/pencils.
Disinfect the mats prior to competition.
Student athletes will rotate between two mats for matches in order to keep one disinfected at all times.
Hand sanitizer and wipes will be available at the scorer’s table.
Official scoresheet will only be handled by the scorekeeper.
Official scorer and official timer will be permitted at the scorer’s table.
Ankle bands (if used) are to be disinfected after each match.
Weigh-ins should be conducted separately for each team and not shoulder to shoulder as stated in the NFHS rule. (Waiver of NFHS Rule approved by NYSPHSAA Officers 1-25-2021) .
Honor weigh-ins will not be permitted for the 2020-21 season (Waiver of NYSPHSAA Rule approved by NYSPHSAA Officers 1-25-2021).
Weight Certification – NYSPHSAA will provide further guidance.

Considerations for Athletes

Bring your own water bottle.
No sharing of personal equipment, towel or clothing.
Recommended that each athlete bring their own supplies.
Bathroom use is limited to two people at a time.
It is strongly encouraged that athletes change out of practice clothing/uniform and shower immediately upon returning home.

Reminders for Coaches

Coaches will have hand sanitizer, cleaning supplies, and masks available
for each practice and game.
Water jugs will not be used during games or practices.
Coaches, scorekeepers, trainers, timers must properly wear a
mask at all times.
Accurate records of attendance for games and practices is mandatory.
Parents/guardians and student athletes must sign off on district and coaches’ expectations.
Enforce all safety protocols and expectations
Supervise players after practices to ensure that masks are worn, social
distancing is maintained, and athletes have been picked up. Coaches are the
last people to leave the building.

Spectators

No spectators (exception: Senior Night – 2 spectators per senior
student athlete).
Matches will be live streamed.

Considerations for Officials

Officials are responsible for management of wrestling matches, which does
not include monitoring social distancing, face coverings, hand washing,
symptoms of illnesses and other such issues.
Bring hand sanitizer. Wash hands frequently.
Do not share uniforms, towels and equipment.
Change standard whistle to electronic whistle if possible. Electronic whistles are permissible.
Officials may wear disposable gloves. Gloves must be changed after each match.
Conduct separate pre-meet administration including skin checks. During
pre-meet administration, use visual inspections and avoid direct contact with
wrestlers.
Referees will not raise the winner’s arm; winners are asked to raise their own
arm signifying victory.

Cheerleading (Winter & Fall 2)

Facility Entrance Procedures

Student athletes will arrive at the facility in competitive attire.
Student athletes will have masks in place covering their mouth and nose.
Health screenings for athletes, coaches, officials, and essential game workers are required.
If an athlete is showing any symptoms, they are not allowed to practice and must be sent home immediately. Athletes will wait in a designated area, away from others, until picked up.
Always maintain at least 6-feet distance.
Student athletes should arrive no more than 15 minutes prior to the activity.
Student athletes will be dropped off in front of the main doors of the Jr/Sr
High School and enter through the main doors with their attestation completed.
Upon entering the gymnasium student athletes will use hand sanitizer.
If the entrance is crowded, and maintaining 6 feet between athletes is not
possible, please wait in the car until the crowd clears.
No spectators will be allowed inside the facility.
Any items brought into the facility (towel, clothes, shoes, or gear) shall be placed in the designated area spread 6 feet apart.
Coaches will take attendance.

Facility Exit Procedure

Student athletes will retrieve their belongings in the bag drop off area.
On the way to the exit, hand-sanitizer will be available.
Student athletes exit the gymnasium and head directly to their car/ride or begin walking home.
There is no congregating.
Parents/guardians should plan to arrive early for pick-up to avoid any possible exposure.
After practices, it is the student athlete/family’s responsibility to disinfect any items set down at the facility.

General Recommended Considerations

Student athletes, coaches, and staff should wash hands or use hand sanitizer
before, during, and after competitions.
There will be no use of locker rooms until further notice.
Acceptable face coverings for COVID-19 include but are not limited to
cloth-based face coverings and disposable masks that cover both the mouth and nose.
Employees must wear face coverings any time they interact with
patrons/players/spectators, regardless of physical distance.
Face coverings must be cleaned or replaced after use and may not be shared. Please consult the CDC guidance for additional information on cloth face coverings and other types of PPE, as well as instructions on use and cleaning.
Student athletes should be responsible for their own supplies.
Hand-to-hand contact is discouraged (no hugging, shaking hands, or fist bumps).
Cheerleaders will remain socially distant. All cheers will be individual. Stunting or group cheers that involve contact with one another will not be permitted.
Have personal items clearly labeled.

Considerations for Students

Each student athlete is responsible for their own supplies.
Student athletes should wear their own appropriate workout clothing/uniform (do not share clothing).
Individual clothing/towels should be washed and cleaned after every workout upon returning home.
Bring your own water bottle.
Student athletes are encouraged to change out of their uniforms/practice clothing and shower immediately after returning home.

Reminders for Coaches

Coaches will have hand sanitizer, cleaning supplies, and masks on hand
for each practice and game.
Water jugs will not be used during games or practices.
Coaches must wear a mask at all times.
Accurate records of attendance for games and practices is mandatory.
Parents/guardians and student athletes must sign off on district and coaches’
expectations.
Enforce all safety protocols and expectations
Supervise players after practices to ensure that masks are worn, social
distancing is maintained, and athletes have been picked up. Coaches are the
last people to leave the building.

Considerations for Parents

Provide personal items for your child and clearly label them.
No Spectators (exception: Senior Night – 2 spectators per senior student athlete).

OTHER

Exception: Each team in each high risk sport competition will be allowed to conduct one senior recognition ceremony prior to February 21. The structure of the senior recognition ceremony should follow established Colonial Council Athletics Guidelines.

All social distancing guidelines will be in effect for these ceremonies. Only senior parents/guardians of the home team may attend. No more than two (2) adults per student athlete will be permitted.

NYPHSAA – Rules and Regulations during COVID-19

For more athletic guidance please see the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Return to Interscholastic Athletics.

2021 January NYPHSAA Return to Interscholastic Athletics

Reporting Concerns or Violations

All concerns regarding COVID safety guidelines should be reported to the district’s COVID Coordinator, Mr. Donald Stevens, dstevens@vlietschools.org (518) 629-3456.

All athletic questions/concerns should be directed to the Athletic Coordinator, Mr. David Wareing, dwareing@vlietschools.org (518) 629-3303.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

2021 January NYSPHSAA Return to Interscholastic Athletics
Official Albany County DOH Guidance
Albany County DOH Guidance Compliance Analysis

Updated 3/1/2021

COVID-19 Athletic Participation Waiver

As with any sport, participation may increase the risk of injuries to students. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, participation may also increase the risk of exposure to and illness from infectious diseases, including the novel coronavirus. COVID-19 may spread easily from person to person, and may result in serious illness, debilitating injury or death. At this time, the long term effects of contracting COVID-19 remains unknown.

By participating in the District’s athletic program, your child may be exposed to the risk of contracting and/or transmitting COVID-19. While certain guidelines, practices, and preventive measures may reduce the risk, the risk of serious illness and/or death through participation may occur. It is the responsibility of each parent and/or legal guardian to evaluate and determine whether they are comfortable with assuming the risk of their child’s participation in sports.

Assumption of Risk for COVID-19: I understand that my child’s participation in the District’s athletic program is voluntary and is not required. I acknowledge that I have carefully read the above; understand the risk of contracting, transmitting, being exposed to and/or injury from COVID-19, and voluntarily assume such risks, including the risk of serious illness, debilitating injury, or death to my child and myself. By signing below, I further acknowledge that I understand the risk of exposure to, contracting, or spreading COVID-19 may result from the acts, omissions, or negligence of myself and others, including but not limited to the District employees, agents, representatives, volunteers; other students, program participants, and their families; and/or other individuals who may be present in school facilities or in attendance at any school activity. I knowingly assume such risk, including the risk of serious illness, debilitating injury, or death to my child and myself.

Cooperation Acknowledgement: I acknowledge that in order for my child to be eligible for and/or participate in the District’s athletic program, certain requirements may be imposed by the District and/or Albany County Department of Health (“DOH”) to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. I agree that my child and I will comply with any conditions established for participation regarding protection against infectious diseases as adopted by the School District and/or Department of Health, including but not limited to, adherence to any isolation or quarantine orders and case investigations.

Waiver of Liability/Hold Harmless: In consideration for providing my child the
opportunity to participate in the District’s athletic program, i voluntarily agree to waive and discharge and and all claims against the District and DOH, related to or arising out of COVID-19, and voluntarily release the District and DOH from liability for any exposure to or illness or injury from COVID-19, including claims for negligent actions out of the District and/or DOH, its employees, agents, representatives, and volunteers related to or arising out of COVID-19, on behalf of myself and my child to the fullest extent allowed by law. In consideration for providing my child the opportunity to participate in the District’s athletic program, I agree to release, discharge, and hold harmless the District and DOH, its employees, agents, volunteers, and representatives from all liability, claims, causes of action, or demands, including attorney fees, fines, fees, or other costs (e.g. medical costs) arising out of any exposure to or illness or injury from COVID-19.

I agree that I have read and understand this document and certify I am the parent and/or legal guardian of the above-named student OR am the above-named student and am 18 years of age or older, that I have read and understand the foregoing, and accept and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of the above.

I, _________________________________, [Print name Parent/Guardian] as parent/guardian, give permission for my child, __________________________________, [Print student name] to participate in extracurricular activities under the guidelines listed in the Watervliet City School District COVID-19 pandemic guidelines document, during the 2020-2021 school year, as well as agree to COVID-19 surveillance rapid testing in an effort to keep students/staff safe.
__________________________________ ___________________________________
Signature of Student Signature of Parent/Guardian
_________________________________
Date

View Extra-Curricular/Athletic COVID-19 Pandemic Guidelines