Dear Rebel Athletes and Parents,
As we transition from one season into the next, we wanted to reach out to our athletes and community about what Rebel sports may look like moving forward. This spring was certainly not the spring we hoped for, especially for our 2020 seniors. While decisions continue to be made regarding social distancing and phases to move us ahead safely,
we wanted to address a few of the things we do know:
1) There will be no summer workouts, open gyms or competitions until July 1st. MDE currently mandates that no one uses school facilities until that time. This decision will be revisited at the end of June and will consult state protocol as well as current National Federation of High School Sports guidelines.
2) The weight room remains closed to staff, students and the public. As gyms/fitness centers are currently within the Governor’s fourth phase, we predict it will remain closed through the summer.
3) Fall coaches will be reaching out to all prospective athletes (incoming 7th-11th graders) regarding their upcoming seasons later this summer. If you wish to contact fall coaches, please see their emails available on both school websites.
4) Sports physicals are required for every athlete, every three years. Most athletes get these done during their 7th and 10th grade years. Due to the pandemic, we are aware that getting a sports physical will be challenging this summer. Because of this, MSHSL will allow us to waive the physicals for one academic year UNLESS the athlete or athlete's family has a documented heart issue. Anyone with heart issues within their family will need to try to schedule a physical as soon as they can.
As coaches and ADs, we understand how hard the past few months have been on our kids. We would also like to return to participation but find it important to follow the rules and abide by guidelines to ensure the safety of all of our athletes, coaches and fans. When we do return to sports, it will be in a tiered system and unlike anything we have ever done before. Please remember that this is an evolving process and to be supportive as you can--especially to our young athletes. Please reach out to Mr. Louzek or Miss Jackson if you have any questions. Remember, we’re Rebel strong!
Dave Louzek: dlouzek@isd577.org
Beckie Jackson: rebecca.jackson@isd97.org