Illinois student-athletes await a major decision from the state on Wednesday about what will happen to sports programs in the fall.
The Illinois High School Association is receiving guidance from state health officials and plans to hold its private board meeting on Wednesday. An IHSA spokesman said a decision is not anticipated until after that meeting.
The IHSA has a number of options to consider, including but not limited to: canceling the fall season entirely, postponing it for winter or spring (condensing the seasons together), or allowing fall sports without contact.
The least likely option seems to be the same as always, as cases of coronavirus continue to increase.
People close to Governor JB Pritzker have already hinted that fall sports are not likely.
“IHSA has said that they will basically go out of business in the fall,” Pritzker said at a recent press conference.
Time is of the essence for high school athletes like Cameron Labbato.
“I’m looking to get as many movies as possible,” said Labbato. “I just want to have my senior season and try to be remembered.”
Labbato plays on the top-ranked varsity kids’ soccer team at Lyons Township High School.
Although he hopes to play this fall, he said he understands the difficult decision IHSA must make during this pandemic.
“There is pressure from parents, coaches, players; everyone wants to play, but do they really want to risk everyone getting sick? Labbato said. “I think any decision they make will be the right decision, but I hope we can play.”
Labbato’s father is also the school’s head soccer coach.
“Schools would have a protocol that would make it safer than whatever clubs are doing because we have athletic trainers and the ability to buy thermometers,” said Paul Labbato. “They have a great decision with the health of many people at stake. That’s not something to look lightly on. “
At Washington High School in Chicago, junior volleyball player Jennifer Arevalo said her parents are concerned for her safety, but that they will leave the decision to her.
“I would be really upset. Volleyball is the only sport I practice. It is the only sport that keeps me active, ”said Arévalo.
Although not confirmed, student athletes have mixed reactions to rumors of a combined sports season in the spring where postponed fall sports would be placed.
Lilly Collins of St. Viator High School participates in basketball, swimming, and soccer.
“I would be running all the time, not having time to do homework or much more than that,” Collins said.
For Chicago athletes in particular, the decision weighs heavily, as last year’s fall sports were cut short due to the Chicago Teachers Union strike.
.
