New Jersey Officials Release Guidelines For Organized Sports As State Enters Stage 2 Of Reopening Process
TRENTON (CBS) -- New Jersey officials have released guidelines for organized sports as the state enters stage two of the reopening process. The state entered stage two Monday but organized sports can't resume until June 22.
"We went from 60 miles per hour to zero back on March 13th and now we're trying to start it back up again and it's very difficult to go from zero to 60 miles per hour," Washington Township Public Schools Athletic Director Kevin Murphy said.
The New Jersey State Athletics Association's Task Force is hoping to get young athletes back on the field in phases.
Low-risk sports, like tennis and golf, can resume competition next Monday, while medium-risk and high-risk sports can only resume non-contact drills and practices.
Baseball, softball, soccer and outdoor basketball are listed as a medium-risk sport and football is high-risk.
Gov. Phil Murphy says the state anticipates resuming competition for medium-risk sports on Monday, July 6.
"Sports is an ingrained part of so many of our communities in our lives our families," he said. "We want everyone to be healthy and to get out and play but even more we want everyone to be safe."
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Full practices and competition for high-risk sports are expected to resume on Monday, July 20.
"I play for South Shore Lacrosse and we have practice coming up because we're allowed to practice now. We've been practicing this whole quarantine," Anthony Chiango said.
CBS3 spotted two teens practicing at Washington Township High School, making sure they're prepared for the lacrosse season.
Both say they believe their schools are making their health and safety a top priority.
"I'm sure like the tournaments and practices will take their precautions and I'm pretty sure I'll be safe," said Alex Kunicki.
Masks are advised for everyone, except when the athletes are doing physical activity.
"Any equipment sharing must be limited. All shared objects must be cleaned and sanitized at the end of each practice, game, in between uses," State Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli said.
Persichilli also says there are a variety of safety protocols for the resumption of youth sports, including COVID-19 screenings for athletes, coaches and staff. There are also limits on the number of people allowed at outdoor gatherings.
"Physical activity is vital for our overall health. These measures will help keep participants safe while engaging in their favorite outdoor sports," Persichilli said.
Pennsylvania and Delaware have already released their plans for organized sports. And the CDC has a list of recommendations to keep children safe from COVID-19 as they gradually get back into sports.
CBS3's Stephanie Stahl and Kimberly Davis contributed to this report.
