In a virtual meeting on Thursday, Dec. 3, the Minnesota State High School League Board of Directors voted to approve potential calendar models for the 2020-21 winter sports seasons.
All three models are contingent on starting when Gov. Tim Walz lifts current COVID-19 restrictions. The current order expires Friday, Dec. 18, and Walz is expected to announce later this week whether he will extend those restrictions. If restrictions do end at that time, winter sports teams can begin practice on Monday, Dec. 21, with competitions beginning Monday, Jan. 4, allowing for a 15-week season for basketball and hockey.
If restrictions are extended, the MSHSL also approved a practice start date of Jan. 4 and a competition start date of Jan. 18. If restrictions are extended further, the dates shift to Jan. 18 for practice and Jan. 25 for games.
“These are examples of start dates determined for us,” Executive Director Erich Martens said. “We are prepared to start at any time. This just gives you reference on what-ifs on what those start dates could be.”
The board agreed to have teams play up to 70% of their normal competitive schedule, with no more than two games or matches per week. Time will be allotted at the end of the regular season to possibly make up postponed games, and three competitions per week will be allowed at that time.
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Section playoffs were approved by the league, but state tournaments will be discussed at a later date. Tournaments are not allowed, but sports like wrestling, gymnastics and dance may conduct triangulars.
Individual school districts will still determine the start dates for their programs. If a school has extended its distance-learning policy, it will likely delay the start of athletic seasons.
The current plan would see winter seasons end the week of March 29, allowing spring sports to have a 12-week season and run until mid-June.
The board also agreed to host virtual state tournaments for debate and one-act play.
Dan Determan may be reached at 218-855-5879 or dan.determan@pineandlakes.com. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/@PEJ_Dan.
