With the start of high school basketball season less than a month away, the Arkansas Activities Association is looking to make the competition as safe as possible. The AAA released its guidelines for the season in accordance with the Arkansas Department of Health and Gov. Asa Hutchinson.
One of the biggest changes to the season is tournaments and classics will not be allowed to be played with the exception of postseason tournaments. That is the main thing that will affect Mountain Home, but Athletic Director Mitch Huskey says he and the staff had been expecting the cancellation of tournaments for nearly a month-and-a-half.
Listen:
For schools without football, 34 high school varsity games and 28 junior high games can be played during the regular season. Football schools will be allowed 26 high school varsity basketball games and 24 junior high games. Huskey says that’s just one game less than what Mountain Home usually plays.
Listen:
In addition, benefit games will be allowed this year, but only between two teams. Multi-team jamborees will not be allowed.
Family groups must be spaced 6 feet apart in seating areas. Tape, paint and signage within the bleachers and around the facility will be required to mark areas where spectators can gather to maintain social distancing. Schools must specify where spectators and participants can sit. Masks are required with the exception of players actively participating. Concession stands can operate, but the health department’s directive for resuming restaurant dine-in operations released in May must be followed.
Appropriate social distancing must be maintained on the sidelines and benches during games and events. Bench personnel must sit with a minimum of 6 feet apart and must be separated from the audience by at least 12 feet. Pregame introduction handshakes and postgame protocol of shaking hands between teams will be suspended.
Click here for the full guidelines.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI