With the announcement made on the morning of November 19, it is clear that winter sport athletes will have to wait a few weeks longer to get back to normal.

The NJSIAA released the following statement: “On November 16, 2020, Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 196, which further restricts the number of people permitted at both outdoor and indoor sporting events. Under the Order, indoor practices and competitions are limited to 10 persons, however, if the number of individuals who are necessary for the practice or competition, such as players, coaches, and referees, is greater than 10 persons, the practice or competition may proceed. If this exception applies, the number of individuals still may not exceed 25 percent of the capacity of the room in which it takes place, or 150 persons, whichever is less. Practically speaking, this means that spectators are prohibited. Although we do not sponsor any outdoor winter sports, it is important to note that the Order also restricts the number of people permitted at outdoor events to 150, inclusive of the athletes, coaches, referees and trainers.”

With Winter sports now being delayed again by roughly one month, the NJSIAA feels confident that these dates will not change again.

Ice hockey will start practicing on December 14, start competing on January 4, and end competition on February 17.

Basketball, fencing, and bowling can begin practicing on January 11, competing on January 26, and end competition on March 6.

Swimming and Winter track & field are allowed to start practices on February 1, start competing on February 16, and end competition on March 27.

Gymnastics, girls volleyball, and wrestling will begin practices on March 1, start competition on March 16, and end competition on April 24.

With adjustments to the schedules, teams will need to adjust tryout dates and plans for the season