News Summary

Warren Central High School is set to resume football conditioning drills starting June 15, 2020, after a prolonged hiatus due to COVID-19. With safety measures in place, players will participate in modified practices that include health screenings and limited social interaction. Alongside football, cross country runners will follow the same schedule, while other sports will gradually resume in July. Coaches face new challenges as they adapt to condensed training periods. The community eagerly anticipates a safe return to high school sports.

Warren Central High School Football Conditioning Drills Set to Kick Off on June 15

In a much-anticipated move, the world of high school sports in Vicksburg is gearing up for a fresh start! Beginning on June 15, 2020, Warren Central High School and Vicksburg High School will dive back into the action with football conditioning drills. This decision was given the green light by the Vicksburg Warren School District Board of Trustees, and you can bet that players, coaches, and fans alike are excited about it!

What to Expect During Conditioning Drills

Players will enjoy a two-week physical acclimatization period starting on June 15, designed to help them ease back into the groove after more than three months of inactivity due to COVID-19. By July 1, they will be ready to tackle full offseason practices, working their way toward the regular season set to kick off in August.

Let’s not forget that cross country runners will also follow the same conditioning schedule as the varsity football teams. Meanwhile, volleyball players and junior high football squads will get into their rhythm starting July 1 as well. It’s a busy time, as teams prepare to make their mark!

Staying Safe While Getting Back in Shape

With the pandemic still at the forefront, safety measures will be strictly enforced during these practices. Coaches will implement modified practices that adhere to social distancing and hygiene guidelines. Players will be grouped into pods of no more than 20, keeping them spaced out across various practice fields to minimize risks.

Lockers will be off-limits, meaning players should arrive already dressed for workouts and ready to go. After practice, the aim is to leave right away! Home showers are a must, and sharing equipment—such as footballs—will not be permitted for the first 30 days. Weightlifting poses its own challenges, as exercises requiring a spotter are now prohibited.

To keep the facilities in check, coaches will take on the crucial task of daily cleaning and disinfecting weights, racks, and restrooms. Who knew being a coach would also mean playing the role of a sanitation officer?

Daily Screenings and Participation Guidelines

Health screenings for COVID-19 symptoms are mandatory for everyone involved—coaches and players—upon their arrival at practice. Plus, summer workouts are voluntary according to MHSAA guidelines, encouraging players to return only when they feel comfortable.

Vicksburg High’s head coach is set to guide players through the new safety procedures using practice and repetition. It’s about teamwork not just on the field, but in adhering to these new regulations. Players who don’t follow the guidelines will not be allowed to participate—no exceptions.

A New Challenge for Coaches

Coaches are now confronted with the task of condensing a typical six-month offseason into approximately six weeks due to the unexpected disruption. Challenging? Absolutely! But it also means players will need to be extra focused and ready to hit the ground running.

What’s Next for Other Sports?

While football takes center stage, there are exciting developments on the horizon for other sports too! Tryouts for basketball teams initially scheduled for June have been postponed until students return to school. Discussions about summer workouts for baseball, softball, and soccer are underway as schools navigate the MHSAA’s prohibitions on summer games. Don’t forget about cheerleading squad tryouts, which will be conducted virtually with submissions due by June 10.

Planning for the Future

Throughout all these preparations, the safety of students, staff, and faculty remains a top priority. With new information about COVID-19 arriving almost daily, ongoing adjustments to plans are expected. It’s all about being flexible and keeping everyone healthy.

As anticipation builds for the upcoming season, students, coaches, and the community are gearing up to make the most of this unprecedented situation. Here’s to a safe and spirited road ahead!

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