Spring sport dates updated

     Extra-curricular activities for Iowa’s high schools will remain prohibited through April 30 as a result of Gov. Kim Reynolds’ extension of school closures as a response to the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

     In addition to classroom activities, the extension affects the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union, the Iowa High School Athletic Association, the Iowa High School Music Association, and the Iowa High School Speech Association.

     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.

     “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.”

     The two sports associations posted an updated schedule of activities April 6. The dates provide for a May 1 return to school.

     For track and field, it calls for the first practice on May 1, first competition May 4, and state competition June 4-6.

     Golf would also have its first practice May 1 and first competition May 4, but would conduct state tournaments June 11-12.

     Soccer would have a May 1 practice start, the first competition May 8, and state competition June 15, 17 and 19.