On May 20, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced districts and nonpublic schools may begin to engage in school sports summer seasons while keeping participants and spectators safe. This announcement only applies to baseball and softball. Although we are excited about this announcement, there are still many details to be worked out. Here’s what we know so far.
As with most situations during this unusual time, what we traditionally know about the high school softball and baseball season will be different this year. In order to “play ball,” we must operate in conjunction with all proclamations issued by the Governor and guidance provided by the Iowa Department of Public Health. Additional guidance from the Iowa High School Athletic Association and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union will be forthcoming to districts and the public. You can read the current guidance issued by the Iowa Department of Education here, released on May 20, 2020.
Important Dates
June 1: Team-organized practices for baseball and softball may begin unless circumstances dictate a change in date. Multiple mitigation efforts are required to help ensure players, coaches, and spectator safety. These details are being communicated directly to student-athletes, their families, and coaches. Baseball and softball practices held during June 1-15 will not be open to the public.
June 15: Baseball and softball games may begin unless circumstances dictate a change in date. Baseball and softball practices must continue to follow the mitigation guidelines. These efforts must be followed to help ensure student-athlete, coach, and spectator safety during games.
At this time, athletic directors and superintendents from the CIML and across the state are working together to determine the best course of action for the safety of all. We will keep you updated as additional guidelines are provided, decisions are made and details are worked out. We appreciate your patience now and your cooperation in complying with established spectator guidelines when our Rams take the field.
