The VHSL's executive committee voted Monday morning to implement 'model three' to address continuing concerns with the COVID-19 pandemic. This move means moving all sports to a condensed athletic schedule for the 2020-21 academic year. The VISAA (private schools) have yet to announce any changes at this time.
The new dates for each season are:
Cross Country: February 15th - May 1st
Indoor Track: December 14th - February 20th
Outdoor Track: April 12th - June 26th
This move, which was voted into effect by a 34-1 vote, was to address the growth in numbers of positive cases in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the possibility of a resurgence of cases this fall. Another big aspect of moving to this plan was being able to still contest all sports without cancellations of certain sports like was suggested in one of the three models.
It should also be noted that the dates above are for the season and not for competitions. What that means is February 15th will be the first practice date and May 1st will likely be the state meet. The first competition dates will likely be 14 calendar days after the first practice date.
The VHSL also has a planned meeting for August 24th to discuss "playoff" plans for all sports which means we should know more about what states would look like and where/when they would be this school year.
Currently the largest limiting factor in deciding post-season events is the limit on people at each event/facility. VHSL Executive Director Billy Haun has stated the league will follow state regulations of capping events at 250 people. That number includes allowing spectators, all participants, officials, and support staff.
Most importantly, these dates are the current plan and subject to change based on prevailing conditions in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
