BOW VALLEY – Alberta high school sports are authorized to return this fall, but restrictions on inter-school competitions and in-school practices are in place until further notice.
The Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association (ASAA) announced its fall schedule for play starting Sept. 1, which includes football, volleyball, golf, cross-country running and cheerleading. The governing body for high school sports in Alberta notes that in-school practices can only occur if approved by school jurisdictions and inter-school competitions are not permitted under the current version of the Stage 2 relaunch strategy.
"Once the GoA [Government of Alberta] announces the details of Stage 3 of its relaunch strategy, the ASAA Executive Committee will consider what the implications are for inter-school athletic competition and ASAA Provincial Championship events with a focus that places safety of all participants first and foremost," said John Paton, ASAA executive director in a press release.
"The ASAA staff and Executive Committee are poised and ready for when the GoA announces Stage 3 of their relaunch strategy, or if there are workable changes to Stage 2 of their relaunch strategy that may allow competitive opportunities."
August 13 Update: https://t.co/wnU1WhhYlk
— ASAA (@ASAA) August 13, 2020
As part of ASAA's fall schedule, start dates for in-school practices for sports such as golf, cross-country and football were adjusted from Aug. 16 to Sept. 1.
Canmore Wolverines football head coach, Spencer Rose, said that if permitted, he would love to start up fall practices and have as much of a season as possible.
"We've got a really passionate group and a number of seniors for whom this team and this season are very important. It would be unfortunate were we unable to compete and enjoy this season," Rose said in an email.
ASAA said a return to practices will vary from school-to-school based on protocols set by superintendents and principals.
Locally, Canadian Rockies Public Schools is looking into the matter and will have a decision in the coming weeks. The school division for Our Lady of the Snows, Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools, will make a decision during the first week of classes.
Under Alberta's Stage 2 relaunch strategy, currently underway, sports teams are allowed and a maximum of 200 people for audience-type community outdoor events, like spectators at a game, is permitted. The province stated that the success of Stage 2 will determine when Stage 3 is launched.
