The following is from the CIAC’s website, casciac.org.
To view the CIAC’s 2020 fall sports plan, click here
CHESHIRE, Conn. -The CIAC Board of Control met at 2PM on Wednesday August 12 as part of its planned review of the official fall sports plan, which was approved on July 30. The Board commends the work of the individual CIAC swimming, volleyball, football, field hockey, cross country, and soccer committees for their work in reviewing feedback from administrators, athletic directors, coaches, officials, and medical advisors. Our collective work remains centered on providing safe opportunities for Connecticut student-athletes that support their cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and mental health. We remain committed to a constant state of evaluation and review on current CT COVID metrics, advice from medical and public health experts, and collaboration with our professional colleagues.
At this time, the Board will continue to move forward with the July 30 plan as outlined. This includes keeping football in the fall and beginning on August 17. In considering any change from the current plan, the Board discussed at length any change in COVID data between approval of the plan and today. Based on the input from medical advisors and the continued positive COVID numbers in CT while sports are being played, the Board believes it is appropriate to move forward with all fall sports, at this time.
As stated from the onset, our plan is fluid, under constant review, and may change at any point, based on new information. We will continue to consult with our education partners, medical experts, and review positions from state leaders and departments. However, the CIAC believes that the approved plan aligns with the educational interests of our member schools and provides the safest athletic experience for Connecticut student-athletes.
Additional points of emphasis from today’s meeting include clarification that the CIAC position on fan/spectator attendance is that fans should not be allowed at interscholastic contests or practices. We understand the complexities of individual districts who use public fields and that the ultimate decision rests with the district, however, the CIAC believes that prohibiting fan/spectator attendance aligns best with the goals of education-based athletics.
Also, the CIAC Board of Control would like to clarify that the decision on eligibility of students who choose a full distance model of learning will made at the district level, provided the student is otherwise eligible.