Play Ball! New Health Department Guidance for Youth Sports

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has issued new guidance on youth sports during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Outdoor sports like baseball, tennis and football, youth sports games and scrimmages can resume on June 24.  Indoor sports, like basketball, hockey and gymnastics, games and scrimmages can begin on July 1 or later.

Both indoor and outdoor sports can have full team practices starting on June 24.

The new guidance asks coaches, staff and spectators to practice social distancing and wear face coverings at all times. Players are also asked to wear face coverings when possible.

Minnesota health commissioner Jan Malcolm said the decision balances risk and benefits during a pandemic. On one hand, health officials are attempting to slow the virus’ transmission, while on the other hand providing youth with a way to engage in sports activities, which have been shown to have important benefits: physically, emotionally and socially.

The MDH says these “continued dial turns” depend largely on Minnesotans continuing to be safe during the pandemic. This includes social distancing, wearing facemasks while out in public, washing hands often, getting tested if you have symptoms and staying home when sick.

The Minnesota health department says there will be some who do not wish to return to group activities, and that it’s important for everyone to give people space to make decisions that work best for them and their families.

Organizations are required to have a COVID-19 preparedness plan, integrating the MDH guidance as well as current social distancing and social gathering requirements. Additional information in the youth sports guidance can be found on the health department’s website.