Friday IHSA released their next stage of Return to Play guidelines, adjusting wording to align it with the Restore Illinois plan; the Return to Play guidelines are now known Phase 4 Return to Play Guidelines.
“IHSA member schools are permitted to begin use of voluntary summer contact days,” the release reads. “School districts should work with their local health departments on current restrictions in their area prior to beginning contact. Local school administration determines the permitted activities at their school. Prioritizing the health and safety of all students and staff must remain the focus of each IHSA member school.”
As it was with the previous stage, schools must maintain a daily record of athletes participating and any symptoms that may be present.
The biggest takeaway from the new guidelines is an increase in gatherings from a maximum of 10 per group to gatherings that can include up to 50 individuals, indoors or outdoors.
Athletes who did not participate in Phase 3 of Restore Illinois are encourage to follow the fall acclimatization schedule for any sport. Football players should maintain their summer acclimatization schedule. Coaches, volunteers, and officials will be required to wear masks. Participants will be encouraged to wear a mask if feasible for their sport.
In terms of weightlifting, spotters are now allowed while masked. A spotter at either end of weight-lifting bar is advised.
Summer contests will be allowed with group sizes limited to 50 total participants, coaches, and referees. Additional team members can sit on the sidelines six feet apart from one another. Schools may choose to permit spectators but there should be a designated area for spectators with existing seating capped at 20% of capacity and allows six feet of distance between families/household units.
Athletic Trainers or medical personnel are encouraged to be available for workouts.
Concessions will be allowed to be open in accordance with restaurant businesses physical workspace guidelines. Spectators are encourage to bring their own chairs from home for outdoor activities.