The boys’ basketball team will be gearing up to practice and hopefully play a busy schedule of games this winter. The Minnesota High School League gave thumbs up recently to allow high school kids a chance to play some winter sports, albeit with some restrictions and some rules put in place to hopefully stave off COVID-19. Staff photos/ Brian Larsen
According to Cook County High School Athletic Director Mitch Dorr, boys’ and girls’ basketball practice will start on January 11, with no timetable as to when games will be played.
However, that timetable may be moved up for the Vikings because on Monday, December 28, the Minnesota State High School League announced that coaches could open practice for high school sports on January 4, 2021, with games set to begin as early as January 14.
Games and practices come with a set of COVID- 19 rules established by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).
Under the MDH guidelines, to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 among high school athletes competing in winter sports, basketball and hockey players will have to wear masks when competing in games and practices. Kids participating in wrestling, gymnastics, cheerleading, swimming, and diving will be allowed to take their masks off while completing certain aspects of their sport.
Facemasks that become saturated in sweat will also have to be changed on a regular basis.
Arianna Poyirier launches a shot over a defender in a home game played last season. Arianna made all-conference last year and she will be depended on heavily when the girls take the floor this winter.
No more than 25 athletes will be able to practice together at one time.
At this time, there aren’t any guidelines about whether spectators will be allowed in to watch games. During the shortened volleyball and football season, parents could attend games and sit six or more feet apart from other spectators.
At this time, concession sales at games won’t be allowed. These sales help fund the Booster Club, which in turn helps pay for trips and gear for high school athletes.
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