May 26, 2020
Dear Parents/Guardians and Players:
At this point in time, ‘return to training’ is not permitted.
The Michigan State Youth Soccer Association’s (MSYSA)
return-to-training guidelines
apply once MSYSA has indicated that it is safe for an initial return-to-training in limited-size groups, and with adherence to social distancing. These are being provided now so that our affiliated clubs/leagues, team officials, and parents/players can prepare on what is expected once MSYSA has indicated it is safe for an initial return-to-training.
For now, return-to-training, with coaching (onsite) observing social distancing, may occur when Governor Whitmer has indicated that the entire state of Michigan has entered Phase 5. For reference, Governor Whitmer’s ‘Stay Home, Stay Safe’ Executive Order is in effect through June 12, 2020.
Out of an abundance of caution for our participants and families, MSYSA’s return-to-play date is June 15, 2020, at the earliest.
In the event that MSYSA receives favorable clarification on potential youth soccer activities from MDHHS during Phase 4, MSYSA will update our guidance to be consistent with MDHHS.
During an initial return-to-training, players must:
· Avoid any activities that may require direct or indirect contact between athletes.
· Take their temperature daily and especially before activities with others.
· Wash hands thoroughly before and after training.
· Bring, and use, hand sanitizer at every training.
· Wear mask before and immediately after all training.
· Avoid touching or sharing anyone else’s equipment, water, food or bags.
· Practice social distancing, place bags and equipment at least 6 feet apart.
· Avoid group celebrations, high-5s, hugs, handshakes, fist-bumps, etc.
· Follow all CDC guidelines as well those of your local health authorities.
In addition, parents/guardians must:
· Ensure your child is healthy and check your child’s temperature before activities with others. If your child has experienced any feelings of being ill, or any COVID-19 symptoms, do not send your child to practice.
· Consider not carpooling or very limited carpooling.
· Stay in car or adhere to social distance requirements, based on current state and local health requirements.
· When at training, wear a mask if outside your car.
· Ensure child’s clothing is washed after every training.
· Ensure all equipment (cleats, ball, shin guards etc.) are sanitized before and after every training.
· Notify your club immediately if your child becomes ill for any reason.
· Do not assist your coach with equipment before or after training.
· Be sure your child has necessary sanitizing products with them at every training.
Before ‘returning to training’, MSYSA’s affiliated clubs/leagues are required to create, distribute, and be prepared to enforce all safety protocols, consistent with MSYSA’s guidelines. The information above represents abbreviated, high-level, guidelines as it related to a ‘return-to-training’. However, additional guidelines from your league or club will be shared and relayed with all of you when it becomes available.
Please share this information with others. In the interim, please continue to review our website, email communications, and social media platforms for updates.
Sincerely,
Thomas Faro
Executive Director
cc.: MSYSA Board of Directors
