April 28, 2021
Dear Club and League Representatives:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their ‘Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People’ on April 27, 2021. In brief, the CDC continues to recommend requiring masking of those in crowded indoor/outdoor settings, and at sporting events/venues where there is decreased ability to maintain physical distance, until widespread vaccination is achieved.
At this time, there have been no changes to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Emergency Order Under MCL 333.2253. Additionally, there have been no changes to MSYSA’s Return-To-Play (RTP) Guidelines. Thus, all players, team officials, referees and spectators must appropriately, and consistently, wear facial coverings at all times upon arrival to, departure from and during MSYSA activities. Continued compliance on the appropriate and consistent use of facial coverings (whether vaccinated or not vaccinated) is needed to avoid the potential pause of specific team/club activities and/or a potential statewide stoppage. Please continue to do your part, and implore upon others to do their part, so that children can continue to play soccer.
Also, as a reminder, weekly testing (SARS-CoV-2) of all athletes (ages 13-19) is required for participation in organized sports, including youth (club) soccer, through May 24, 2021. This includes contact and non-contact activities. Any athletes (ages 13-19) who do not comply with the MDHHS weekly testing requirement, are not permitted to participate in any MSYSA-affiliated activities through May 24, 2021.
In closing, our next (Zoom) conference call is scheduled for Friday, May 7, 2021 at 4 PM. Any edits or changes to our RTP guidelines will be communicated at that time. The Zoom call-in credentials will be sent by separate email to club and league representatives only.
Sincerely,
Thomas Faro
Executive Director
cc.: MSYSA Board of Directors
