It’s time to play ball – with guidelines in place

On May 20, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced districts and nonpublic schools may begin to engage in school sports seasons while keeping participants and spectators safe. This means we will be able to hold our baseball and softball season!

Like most things, how we traditionally know and think of softball and baseball season will be changing this year. In order to “play ball,” we must operate in conjunction with all proclamations issued by the Governor and guidance provided by the Iowa Department of Public Health. Additional guidance from the Iowa High School Athletic Association and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union will be forthcoming to districts and the public. You can read guidance issued by the Iowa Department of Education, released on May 20.

Dates to keep in mind

June 1: Team-organized practices for baseball and softball may begin unless circumstances dictate a change in date. Multiple mitigation efforts are required to help ensure players, coaches, and spectator safety. These details are being communicated directly to student athletes, their families, and coaches. Baseball and softball practices held during June 1-15 will not be open to the public.

June 15: Baseball and softball games may begin unless circumstances dictate a change in date. Baseball and softball practices must continue to follow the mitigation guidelines. These efforts must be followed to help ensure student athlete, coach, and spectator safety during games.

At this time, athletic directors from the CIML and across the state are working together to determine the best course of action for having spectators at games in a safe and responsible manner. In Johnston, we are fortunate to have a high-quality live-stream network to watch games from anywhere. We recommend utilizing the live stream to safely watch the games with play-by-play commentary.

Please watch for an update on Wednesday, May 27 from the district regarding additional guidelines and decisions regarding the upcoming baseball and softball season. We are excited about this opportunity, but want to lead first and foremost with safety for all.