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Columbia pitcher Emma Edson hurls a pitch to the plate against Madison County on March 12. (JORDAN KROEGER/Lake City Reporter)
FHSAA Executive Director George Tomyn released a video on social media Thursday to address the state’s suspension of high school athletics during the covid-19 pandemic.
After updating his member schools and the public through press releases since spring sports were put on hiatus on March 13, Tomyn decided to speak to everyone in his own words.
“This is certainly a challenging environment and I wanted to reach out to all of our members to let you know that the FHSAA is committed to helping any way we can, especially during this unique time,” Tomyn said. “Our circumstances may not be ideal right now. We encourage you to be optimistic about our future.
“We hear of great creative things that coaches and athletic directors are doing as they work remotely with student athletes in keeping them healthy and engaged. We also asked that you be supportive of your colleagues as teachers and administrators work with all students using strategies to keep students and student-athletes academically focused.”
The FHSAA originally suspended sports for two weeks on March 13, but five days later, the timeline was pushed until at least April 15. As covid-19 cases continued to rise in the state, the FHSAA eventually suspended athletics through May 3 on March 31.
In its March 31 press releases, the FHSAA stated it was also considering extending the spring season and holding the postseason in June if possible. Tomyn said the FHSAA’s decision will follow the guidelines set by President Trump, the CDC, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Department of Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran.
“I am participating on daily conference calls with the Florida Department of Education and our staff is working with the Florida Council of Independent Schools and the other school-based leaders,” Tomyn said. “We’re closely monitoring and staying on top of things as we all move through these unprecedented times. We’re all in this together and we must work together. The FHSAA Board of Directors and the FHSAA staff thank you for your patience as we navigate these uncharted waters.
“Finally, I ask that you continue to heed the advice of medical authorities and practice appropriate behaviors, like social distancing, frequent hand washing and staying home, throughout the month of April. Everyone must do their part. Together we can do this. Together we look forward to the time we can all safely enjoy the sports we love.”