By Richard Obert | Arizona Republic
The Arizona Interscholastic Association Executive Board on Friday voted to cancel the high school winter sports season amid a continued surge in COVID-19 cases statewide.
The AIA had already delayed the start of the winter sports season but reconsidered that move because of the continued trend of rising coronavirus cases, which has led to Arizona having the highest rate of positive cases in the country.
The board, during a special meeting held Friday morning, initially voted 5-4 to reject a motion to start the boys and girls basketball, soccer and wrestling seasons as planned on Jan. 18. Arguments were made from the nine board members, before a vote was taken.
“This is so unfortunate for the kids and families- heartbreaking. There should be some creative solution here to be as safe as possible given the situation.”This decision should be reconsidered as there are so many more incremental ways to make youth sport’s safe. This should not be an all or nothing approach.”
Jordan Rose, president and founder of Rose Law Group, who has assisted in multiple AIA appeals on behalf of youth athletes and their families.
