Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced today, Aug. 24, that the state will allow “low-risk” sports to return to game play this fall.

“Schools will be coming back, there will be a little bit of a period to gauge what’s happening, and Sept. 21 they can start practicing and playing across the state,” Cuomo said at a media briefing.

At least five sports — soccer, swimming, field hockey, cross country and tennis — will be permitted to resume play, according to Gov. Cuomo. Schools will not be permitted to travel outside their region to play, however.

Higher risk sports with full-physical contact like tackle football, wrestling, rugby and ice hockey may continue to practice, but are not authorized to play, according to the governor.

On Aug. 25, the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) is scheduled to meet with representatives from each of the 11 state athletic sections to discuss this announcement and to best determine how member school districts can proceed.  This discussion will be followed by a meeting of the NYSPHSAA COVID-19 Task Force for further discuss the parameters for student participation.

Later this week, Minisink Valley and other school districts expect more specific information on how to move forward with plans for the start of practices on Sept. 21.

Additional information will be posted as it becomes available.