HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Huntsville City Schools is remaining optimistic for upcoming Fall sports. Wednesday morning, administrators gathered at Milton Frank Stadium to discuss some of the minor changes that will be put in place this upcoming season.
"We're trying to just wait and see if we get any new guidance from the AHSAA or the ADPH, but we'll finalize those plans later this week and have them ready for next week," said HCS Coordinator Scott Stapler.
Some of the changes for the upcoming school year include temperature checks and health screening questionnaires to anyone entering competition facilities, limited locker room access, which will require social distancing and players will be asked to arrive to competition dressed in the full uniform if possible.
Grissom Head Football Coach Chip English said, "We take their temperature, we ask them questions, we try to mitigate all risks by wearing masks inside at all times, even when they're lifting weights."
English also added that his team regularly practices social distancing on the field when possible, and the coaches have reduced close encounters of 15 minutes or more.
The coaches and administration said they understand that what the athletes do outside of practice and games is out of their control.
"They've got to make good decisions in order to keep sports going," said Stapler.
Other changes will allow student-athletes to find their own form of transportation to away events. For events that require bus transportation, athletes will be limited to one person per seat and masks will be required.
As far as how many fans can attend each game, that is still in question. Administrators believe the chances of playing without limiting fans at Milton Frank are good. Stapler said the size of that stadium seem to give fans an opportunity to socially distance.
The high school football season will begin August 20th-21st.