July 16, 2021
MSYSA’s return-to-play guidelines (RTP) have been updated in preparation for the upcoming seasonal year. Please read and review.
With respect to COVID-19, a few cases of the Delta variant have been detected in Michigan. However, as of now, Michigan is not experiencing a significant jump in cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Delta variant is now the dominant strain in the United States. Currently, the Delta variant accounts for nearly 58% of U.S. infections.
While there is no longer a statewide requirement to wear a face mask in most settings, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has issued a rapid health alert on face mask recommendations. In short, MDHHS recommends that individuals who are not yet fully vaccinated wear a face mask when participating in indoor or outdoor contact sports, in crowded outdoor settings/events, or sporting events (including youth athletic events), if you are not socially distanced.
Also, ‘recommended mitigation measures for athletics’ (MDHHS) include screening for symptoms before play, or practice, and avoiding sports activities if you have symptoms of COVID-19, wash hands frequently, cover coughs/sneezes, use separate equipment as much as possible, frequently clean and disinfect shared equipment/surfaces, and prioritize outdoor practice as much as possible.
Sincerely,
Thomas Faro
Executive Director
cc.: MSYSA Board of Directors
