IHSA Cancels Remaining Winter
State Tournaments Over COVID-19 Pandemic
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[April 13, 2020]
The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) announced on March 12,
2020, that it has canceled its remaining winter State Series
postseason tournaments, which include Boys Basketball, Scholastic
Bowl, Drama & Group Interpretation, Music, Debate and Journalism,
over concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We appreciate the patience and understanding that we have received
from everyone involved in this process over the past 72 hours,” said
Craig Anderson. “We have stressed the fluidity of this situation and
have been transparent about the possibility that a suspension or
cancellation could occur. While we had support from the Illinois
Department of Public Health and the Peoria City/County Health
Department to continue our events with limited spectators, it has
become untenable to continue the events among our member schools.
Multiple schools who are participating or hosting these sports and
activities have been forced to withdraw from those roles, clarifying
the need for the IHSA to take definitive action. The Board
considered suspending the events, but after deliberate discussion,
did not believe that was a realistic option within the timeline. We
feel for everyone who has been impacted, but must put the health and
safety of all involved ahead of these events.”
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The IHSA has not made any decisions related to spring sport tournaments at this
time.
“It is too early to make any decisions regarding IHSA spring state final
tournaments,” said Anderson. “We respect the NCAA’s decision to cancel its
spring championships, but also recognize that the exposure and travel by our
high school teams is not as expansive as collegiate teams. At this juncture, we
recommend that all IHSA spring sport teams consult their local health
departments, and follow their recommendations on if and how to proceed with
practices and regular-season contests.”
Anderson added, “I also want to commend the coaches and administrators from the
Class 1A and Class 2A state finalists who traveled to Peoria today. While
obviously disappointed, they conducted themselves with the utmost class as we
charted this unprecedented situation together.”
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