LHSAA Fall Olympic Sports Receive Glimpse Of Hope Regarding Start Dates
by Hunter Bower // GeauxPreps.com Owner
With much of the attention focused on Louisiana high school football and its delayed start date, a glimpse of hope was also given to three fall olympic sports on Wednesday.
A memo, sent from LHSAA Executive Director Eddie Bonine to member schools, outlined important dates for fall activities should the state be fortunate enough to reach Phase III by August 28.
The sport of volleyball could begin regular season competition as early as Sept. 8, losing just one week from its original start date. Schools would be able to attempt two scrimmages the week of Aug. 31-Sept. 5.
“We are definitely excited to have a start date in writing,” said Central head volleyball coach Michele LeBouef. “It gives us something to look forward to.”
According to the memo, volleyball would still be on track to end its regular season and finish the state tournament by Nov. 14.
The sports of Cross Country and Swimming would not be affected by a Phase II extension and could still start on time with first meets set for an Aug. 31 start.
Cross Country championships are set for Nov. 16-17 while swimming is still scheduled for Nov. 18-21.
Those dates would be subject to change depending on which phase the state is in by those mentioned dates.
Bonine noted within the memo that the dates and situations were fluid and that the association would give any and all updates as needed.
“There is still a ton of logistics quesitons regarding fans, tournaments, tri-matches, etc.” said LeBouef. “Those won’t be able to be answered until we know guidelines from local and state authorities.”
Bonine stated in a Zoom call yesterday that local and possibly state officials have the final decision when it comes to allowing event attendance, setting social distancing guidelines for travel and other safety logistics.
There are dates on the table as of now. However, it can’t be stressed enough that dates are subject to change depending on what phase that the state is in when Aug. 28 rolls around.
“I am glad the LHSAA put something out,” said LeBouef. “Now we just have to wait for Phase III.
The memo was delivered less than a day after Governor Jon Bel Edwards extended Phase II of Louisiana’s reopening plan for three more weeks Tuesday all but ensuring a delayed start to high school sports this fall.
The decision to remain in Phase II extended the date to at least August 28, the same week originally scheduled for the LHSAA’s football and volleyball jamborees.