WILLIAMSBURG, Va. - Multiple student-athletes saw their seasons abruptly end before they could even get started Monday in James City County.
In a decision is says was made, "to protect student health and reduce the potential spread of COVID-19," the Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools division canceled its winter sports season for the 2020-2021 school year.
This impacts basketball, gymnastics, indoor track and field, swimming and diving and wrestling at Jamestown, Lafayette and Warhill high schools. The division's middle schools will also sit-out the winter sports season.
“The COVID numbers keep climbing, and we will not place students in a situation where their health and safety are at risk,” said WJCC Schools Superintendent Olwen E. Herron. “Travelling between localities and schools for games, you amplify potential exposure for students. You hope everyone is doing their part to socially distance, wear a mask, and make good choices, but there are no guarantees.”
The division says the decision, "comes after careful consideration by the superintendent in collaboration with high school principals, athletic directors and central office leaders."
“We know this is incredibly disappointing for our student-athletes – especially our seniors, and the coaches, families, and fans,” said Kenny Edwards, athletic director for Jamestown High School. “But there is much more at stake here than a win, a title, or a trophy.”
High school conditioning for fall sports is temporarily suspended and will resume January 11. Spring sports conditioning at high schools will begin January 18.
“Student-athletes who play Spring sports lost their entire season last year,” said Kyle Neve, athletic director at Lafayette High School. “Our greatest hope is that conditions improve, and they can play ball and run track this spring.”
“Participating in activities and sports is a privilege. We trust that our students and their families understand that we are doing this for them, not to them,” said Warhill High School Athletic Director Dan Mullen. “Our competition is COVID, and we must all play to win.”
