March 28, 2024

IHSAA, IGHSAU release updated date projection for return

The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union and the Iowa High School Athletic Association have released an updated projection of returning to action Monday afternoon due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The update, which will retain the previous action of prohibiting activities through April 30, comes after Iowa governor Kim Reynolds extended school closures Thursday.

The original projected return date was slotted for April 13, but has been moved to May 1 for both unions

From the IHSAA's release:

Gov. Reynolds announced the extension of school closures alongside representatives from the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Iowa Department of Education. While the Department of Education and executive director Dr. Ann Lebo have announced provisions for continued learning during this period, guidance continues to prohibit mass gatherings and keep school facilities closed across Iowa.

The primary concern of all four Unified Activities organizations is the health and safety of students, schools, and their communities during this pandemic.

The IGHSAU and IHSAA are still working to offer spring and summer sports opportunities, provided they can be done safely and follow CDC, state, and local guidelines. The IHSMA and IHSSA are collaborating with member schools to provide up-to-date guidance for teachers and participants through this prohibited period.

However, schedules will continue to be assessed as this crisis develops and further announcements from the Unified Activities partners will follow recommendations of state and public health officials.

The IDPH continues to advise individuals to stay at home as much as possible and avoid gatherings of more than 10 people.

“We are committed to bringing a sense of familiarity to our young people whose school year has been so disrupted by this adjusted spring season,” IHSAA executive director Tom Keating said. “It is our hope that students return to school on the current target date and have the opportunity to participate in the activities that mean so much to them.

“Like all Iowans, we are committed to doing our part to help stop the spread of COVID-19, and we support the steps Governor Reynolds has taken to achieve that goal.”

Currently, all spring sports are projected a return date of May 1, with first competition opening up May 4 (soccer is May 8).

Postseason action is estimated for May 20 to June 12 for all sports, with state competition taking place in the first and second weeks of June. For a full schedule, you can find it here.

More from the release regarding the schedule:

Postseason host sites and state championship event venues are currently set as previously announced. Any changes or updates will be announced as they become available.

The IGHSAU and IHSAA have not set a maximum or minimum number for competition dates within this adjusted schedule. Previously stated competition limits apply for each sport. Member schools may determine their own regular seasons which are best suited to their school schedules and activities.

Golf postseason dates may vary due to course availability.

Member schools with contracted dates or facilities should contact those partners regarding lost or potentially lost agreements. Please contact IGHSAU and IHSAA administrators for more information if necessary.