The Section One Executive Committee of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) decided that low risk sports including cross country, field hockey, soccer and girl’s tennis would be permitted to begin Sept. 29, with the start date for high risks sports remaining undetermined.  

On Aug. 24, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that fall sports could begin practices on Sept. 21. However, after further review of data collected from the Lower Hudson Council of School Superintendents and the Section One Covid Task Force, the date was pushed back by Section One to prioritize the safe reopening of New York schools.

“Despite the ongoing circumstances, the team and I are really looking forward to having a strong season,” said Benjamin Schneider, captain of the Pelham boys varsity soccer team. “The other captains and I believe that we have a strong team this year and could make a run at the section title. The entire team has been working hard throughout the pandemic, and we are all really excited for the season to start.”

The data will continue to be reviewed by the NYSPHSAA as it attempts to follow the best path forward for student athletes in Section One.