Youth sports may resume with social distancing

State health officials issued new guidelines for youth sports that provides for some limited participation. The state guidelines, released on Aug. 3, are a change from the previous rules which did not allow for participation in youth sports. Under the new guidelines, youth sports can take place only when two criteria are met: (1) Physical distancing of at least six (6) feet between participants. (2) Stable cohort, such as a class or team when the participants remain the same, that limits the risk of transmission. Sports that cannot be played with enough distancing and cohorting are not permitted. Competitions, including games and tournaments, are not allowed. “The new guidelines provide for some participation for youth sports, which is something we know parents, coaches and young