Minisink Valley Central School District > Athletics News > NYSPHSAA cancels all 2020 spring state championship events; ‘local/regular season’ play decision remains on hold
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NYSPHSAA cancels all 2020 spring state championship events; ‘local/regular season’ play decision remains on hold

NYSPHSAA logoThe New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) has announced the cancellation of all 2020 spring state championship events today, April 27.

The impacted events are boys and girls track & field, boys tennis, softball, baseball, golf and both boys and girls lacrosse state championships scheduled to be held between June 4 and 13.

“Unfortunately, with the continued impact of the COVID-19 crisis, hosting the spring 2020 state championships is no longer feasible (time factor, facility and venue availability, etc.),” Paul Harrica, NYSPHSAA president, said in a statement.  “Canceling the remaining winter state championships in late March was challenging and the cancelation of our spring state championships today is equally disappointing.”

Minisink Valley Athletics Director Tim Bult said the district supported the decision as it was in the best interest of public and student health.

“Our first priority remains the good health and safety of our students and those teams Minisink Valley would play against,” Mr. Bult said. “We know our student-athletes are disappointed that the state championship is cancelled. and we understand that.  We are awaiting guidance on the direction to be taken for any local/reason season play.  We appreciate your continued patience and understanding.”

Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA executive director, noted the decision is difficult for the NYSPHSAA membership.

“We certainly sympathize with the students, coaches and their school communities, especially the graduating seniors,” he said in a statement.

The NYSPHSAA will continue to rely upon information from the New York State Department of Health, local health departments as well as the Governor’s office for information and guidance on COVID-19 and its impact upon the spring regular season.

As of today, the spring regular season remains on hold for nine of the 11 Sections. Section VIII and XI (Long Island) officially canceled all spring events on April 21.

Individual sections have the authority to decide whether to hold regular season contests.

For student-athletes to return to athletic participation this spring, schools need to be reopened by Gov. Cuomo.  The date students can return to school will play a significant role in the possibility of a spring sports regular season.