Last Friday, the University Interscholastic League passed two rulings in response to change caused by the COVID-19 pandemic related to high school physicals and future disruptions.
The first ruling states that athletes and marching band members who recorded physicals for the 2019-2020 school year will be cleared to participate this upcoming year as long as their medical history form did not show any cause for concern.
Athletes and marching band members in all grade levels, who will be participating for the first time and those without a previous physical will be required to take a physical to compete.
Also, if last year’s physicals showed any signs for concern, the student athletes must take a physical for the 2020-2021 school year.
RHS Athletic Director Jacob Campsey said that he is comfortable with the decision.
“It limits the amount of stress for health officials and continues to practice social distancing,” Campsey said. “I trust these professionals and their judgment.”
The second ruling gave UIL Executive Director Charles Breithaupt the authority to make changes to UIL rules in response to the disruption of competition created by the coronavirus.
Specifically, the resolution grants Breithaupt the authority to make decisions regarding the resumption of UIL activities and to alter and/or waive rules in the UIL Constitution and Contest Rules necessitated by any disruption of normal business operations related to COVID-19.
This amendment will remain in place until the legislative council gathers for its regularly scheduled board meeting on Sept. 1 then votes to rescind these actions.
The UIL is preparing for multiple scenarios to include: beginning on time (Aug. 20 for Milam County) and a delayed or remote start to the year or even an interruption.
If the athletic year begins as originally scheduled, all schools will be permitted to start fall football practice Aug. 3, according to UIL officials.
“We understand there is a lot of uncertainty during this unprecedented time,” said Breithaupt. “Please know UIL leadership is working diligently to adjust to this rapidly evolving situation.”
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