UIL updates summer workout guidelines that includes required masks, locker room access
The University Interscholastic League updated its guidelines for when schools return to their strength and conditioning and sport-specific workouts on Monday, July 13.
It includes mandatory face coverings, specifically upon entering and exiting, and for anyone not actively exercising, and locker room access.
High schools were on a three-month layoff from the coronavirus shutdown, but the UIL began workouts on June 8. It recommended schools to take a break from July 3-12 in anticipation of potential social gatherings during the Fouth of July holiday weekend.
During the weekend, Gov. Greg Abbott ordered the state to wear masks while in public to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
“This includes all 2020 summer activities and in-season activities for the 2020-2021 school year. As the public health situation changes, and/or if subsequent executive orders are issued by Governor Greg Abbott, these guidelines may be further modified,” the UIL said.
- Masks and face coverings include non-medical grade disposable face masks, cloth face coverings (over the nose and mouth), or full-face shields to protect eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Face shields may be superior to cloth face coverings in many circumstances, given improved ability to see mouth movements and improved air circulation.
- All employees, parents, visitors and students 10 years of age or older must wear face coverings or face shields upon entry to an area where UIL activities are being conducted and when not actively exercising, unless an exception listed below applies.
- Any person with a medical condition or disability that prevents wearing a face covering
- While a person is consuming food or drink
- While the person is in a pool, lake, or similar body of water
- When a congregating group of persons maintains at least 6 feet of social distancing
Students who are actively exercising may remove face coverings as long as they maintain at least six feet of distance from other students and staff who are not wearing one.
Locker room access is also allowed starting Monday as long as plans above are practiced. Students may not be given access to locker rooms or shower facilities prior to Monday.
Athletes may also start offense vs. defense drills on Monday.
“The UIL will continue to work with state officials and monitor CDC and other federal guidance to determine any potential modifications,” the league said.
On June 9, the UIL loosened restrictions that included increased group sizes (outdoors from 15 to 25 and indoors from 10 to 15) and moving indoor capacity to 50%, which started on June 22.
More than 200 schools in Texas have shut down or delayed its workout program at some point during the first month, including Burleson, Arlington Martin, Southlake Carroll, Frisco Lebanon Trail, Braswell and Plano.
Denton Ryan is one area school that has pushed back the start of its summer to July 13.
This story was originally published July 8, 2020 at 10:07 AM.
