Today, Nov. 25, the Orange County Interscholastic Athletic Association (OCIAA) voted to extend the pause on athletics and postpone the sports practice start date for low to moderate risk sports until Jan. 19.

Gov. Cuomo’s office places the sports of swimming and indoor track in these areas.

“We join the rest of New York State as we wait for updates from the governor on the status of high-risk sports (i.e. cheerleading, basketball and wrestling), which currently have no approved start date for practice and competition,” said Director of Athletics Tim Bult. “Wednesday morning’s decision came in response to recommendations from the Orange County Department of Health, legal advice and recommendations from our Orange County school superintendents.”

During the Thanksgiving and Winter recess as well as during the corresponding two-week fully remote instruction periods, Minisink Valley has postponed all athletic activities.

Please note, when students are scheduled to return to hybrid instruction (Dec. 14 to  22), some winter coaches have planned off-season COVID-19 safe workouts. Those coaches will contact students directly, utilizing the FamilyID athletic registration database, to ensure all who have registered receive the appropriate information.

When new information becomes available, the district will post updates.

“We appreciate your continued patience and understanding as we work together and prepare to safely return to athletic participation as soon possible” added Mr. Bult.