GOSHEN, N.Y. — The Section 9 Athletic Council Thursday approved COVID-19 protocols for the fall season, including allowing spectators to attend indoor sports for the first time in 18 months.
The Section 9 Protocol Committee developed the guidelines, which the Athletic Council voted to adopt.
Volleyball and girls swimming athletes, as well as players, coaches, site personnel, officials and spectators are required to wear masks. Swimmers do not have wear a face mask while competing.
Spectators were not allowed access to indoor sports during the shortened seasons last spring.
Section 9 also announced that it will not require masks for players, coaches, site personnel and officials for all outdoor sports, which includes football, soccer, field hockey, girls tennis and cross country. Outdoor spectators will be allowed with no mask requirements.
The Protocol Committee reminded all schools to still maintain social distancing.
According to a press release, Section 9 said the guidelines are “subject to change based on any futures from the governor, the state Department of Health, local county Departments of Heath, the state Education Department or the New York State Public High School Athletic Association.”
