CLEVELAND — Contact sports like football, basketball and lacrosse, are allowed to start practicing on June 22 in Ohio.
Lt. Gov. Jon Husted made the announcement during the state’s Coronavirus news conference on Thursday. He called this phase two for the reopening of youth sports.
But just because they can start practicing doesn’t mean they will.
Each school district can decide when it’s the right time for their particular programs to start up.
"I think everybody is just trying to do the best they can to keep everybody healthy and safe," said Kirtland football head coach, Tiger LaVerde.
LaVerde's says his team will move to phase two on Wednesday.
"Not against other teams, just against each other. We’re looking forward to doing a little seven on seven on Wednesday against each other," said LaVerde.
There will not be any gathering in locker rooms or after practice.There will not be friendly contact like high fives or huddles.
Guidelines issued by the state also include limiting shared equipment and sanitizing equipment that has been shared.
Coaches must wear masks and both coaches and players must undergo symptom checks before they begin practice.
"We have forms for the kids and their parents. They log on, fill out the information, and sign it and that allows them to come to the workouts," said LaVerde.
Games and competitions between different schools is still not allowed for contact sports. Earlier this month, the Ohio High School Athletic Association said in a memo that it remained optimistic the fall sports season would begin on schedule.