FHSAA cancels spring sports after recent Gov. Ron DeSantis announcement on COVID-19
The Florida High School Athletic Association announced the cancellation of spring sports for the 2019-20 season on Monday.
The move was expected following Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ announcement Saturday that schools will continue distance learning for the remainder of the school year due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“The safety of our student-athletes,coaches, officials, and fans is our top priority,” the FHSAA’s announcement read. “With the evolving threat of the CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19), we must ensure that we do not contribute to the spread of this illness. We are deeply saddened for our student-athletes who have seen their seasons and/or high school careers end so abruptly. Our Association knows the impact and role high school athletics play in the lives of so many and will continue to work towards the betterment of high school sports.”
FHSAA spring sports include baseball, softball, track and field, lacrosse, tennis, girls flag football, boys weightlifting, water polo and boys volleyball.
Lakewood Ranch High’s softball team started the season 8-0 and garnered a No. 3 national ranking, according to MaxPreps, and sees its bid for an elusive state title end. Teams and players in all other sports also see their seasons, and their careers in some cases, come to a close.
The FHSAA is not granting additional eligibility, according to its press release.
“We know this is a trying time,but the health and safety of all is of utmost importance to this Association,” the FHSAA’s announcement read. “Under the guidance of the Florida Department of Education regarding grade level retention, and upon review of the Florida Statutes and FHSAA Bylaws, no additional eligibility will be granted for spring sport athletes. For clarification regarding student-athlete eligibility, click here. To all our senior student-athletes, we thank you for dedicating your time and efforts to your school, your coaches, and your teammates.”
“Cherish the memories you have made and embrace all that the future holds for you. While we are saddened that you are unable to compete this season, we could not be prouder to have been represented by such hard-working individuals. Our Association is eager to reconvene all sports in the 2020-21 school year. In the meantime, we strongly encourage everyone to continue adhering to the recommendations of the CDC and your local health departments during this hiatus. Please remember to practice social distancing, frequently wash your hands and avoid touching your face.”
The NCAA ended college spring sports and the men’s and women’s basketball tournaments back in March. The NBA was the first major professional sports league in North America to suspend its season, doing so on March 11. The NHL, MLB, MLS, PGA Tour and motorsports followed suit.
In Florida, there are more than 26,000 positive cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, as of Monday morning, according to the Florida Health Department.
This story was originally published April 20, 2020 at 1:15 PM.
