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The Battle Between COVID-19 and High School Football

Photo courtesy of patch.com

By Sarah Vandermolen

Although the number of COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin continues to rise, some high schools will be conducting football this fall.

According to the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA), "68% of Wisconsin's 11-player football programs statewide have opted to play a shortened fall schedule." Similar to what many college football teams had to decide between, Wisconsin high schools had the choice between a delayed and shortened fall season or an alternative spring season.

According to a WIAA press release, "256 football programs elected for the seven week fall season" while "121 football programs opted for the WIAA-approved alternative fall season, which would open practice March 8 and run through May 3."

Due to this decision, many divisions/conferences had to be adjusted in order to have the appropriate number of participants. According to kenoshanews.com, "In football only, Janesville Craig and Janesville Parker were shifted from the Big Eight to the Badger Large this year, and some Rock Valley schools were moved to other leagues and Madison Edgewood and Monroe were shifted in."

However, due to the difference in restrictions in each county, some high schools had no choice but to participate in the alternative season. For instance, Dane County's restrictions currently prevent having more than 25 people gathered for an outdoor practice.

These circumstances are the most unfortunate for high school seniors whose schools have chosen to wait until the spring. In an article for nbc15.com, high school senior Owen Konopacki explained "I wish we could play as well, but I guess it's a part of what's happening right now that we have to deal with."

However, Konopacki remains hopeful about returning to the field this spring, stating "That's all I'm hoping for. I'm very optimistic about it."

The WIAA is attempting to remain flexible due to the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19. In their press release, the association explains they are allowing teams to switch to the alternative spring season if less than 50 percent of their games have been played. However, according to kenoshanews.com, "the WIAA will not allow teams to intentionally under-schedule fall seasons in order to use the fall season as an opportunity for extra practice." 

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