Hempfield plans to play fall sports despite state recommendation

Hempfield plans to proceed with fall sports despite Gov. Tom Wolf’s recommendation they be delayed until 2021.

In a letter posted on the district’s website, Superintendent Tammy Wolicki wrote school officials plan to move forward with their athletic health and safety plan passed by the board in June. The plan consists of three phases, which slowly integrates students back to their normal training sessions and provides recommendations for cleaning, social distancing and more.

“We believe that returning to school and continuing sports in a responsible manner are possible, and we have all intentions to do so — with the best interests of our students, teachers, coaches and the entire Hempfield Area community in mind,” Wolicki said.

Wolf recommended Wednesday that all youth sports, including interscholastic and recreational, be postponed until January “to protect children and teens from covid-19.” Wolf added that the recommendation was not an order or mandate. He previously stated that schools providing an online-only option should not play fall sports.

In response to the recommendation, the PIAA, who has followed Wolf’s lead throughout the pandemic, stated they will postpone fall sports for two weeks, giving officials a chance to negotiate with the Wolf administration.

Wolicki stated that school board members and district officials will consult with Excela Health in developing plans for student safety in relation to athletics.

She added that school leaders will monitor developments related to the coronavirus pandemic, as well as directives and guidance from Wolf’s office. The district also plans to reach out to Wolf, as well as the PIAA and WPIAL to communicate their desires related to fall sports.