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Task Force to release summer workout guidance

LATHAM – Phase four. The two key words that determined the direction of the first New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) COVID-19 Task Force meeting of the summer, which was held on Wednesday, June 10.

The Task Force – comprised of school district superintendents, high school principals, athletic directors, NYSPHSAA officers, as well as a representative from the New York State Athletic Administrators Association, an athletic trainer, a district transportation director, and members of New York State Education Department and New York State Department of Health – heard reports and updates from Governor [Andrew] Cuomo’s office as well as the state’s Education Department and Health Department pertaining to the COVID-19 crisis and the impact it has had upon education and the reopening of schools.

“Having representatives from these offices provide reports today was extremely beneficial to the work that the Task Force will do over the course of the next few months,” said NYSPHSAA President and Task Force Chair Paul Harrica. “From the reports provided, it is clear school district facilities cannot be opened for student participation until Phase Four is entered. The health and safety of our student-athletes remains our top priority.”

Both the winter sports championships and the spring sports season in its entirety were canceled due to schools closing their doors because of the New York State on PAUSE Executive Order from Governor Andrew Cuomo’s office.