Everybody knew when authorizing indoor sports, there was going to be a major risk with the pandemic ensuing. And so it has.
So far, boys and girls basketball, swim, and boys hockey have all been suspended because of Covid-19 breakouts either within the team or by coming into contact with someone on an opposing team who was exposed.
For that suspension period any players that came into contact with exposed people have been in quarantine. “The hockey team is quarantined this week,” said Bill Matthews. “They will return to play on Saturday.”
Swim team practice has been suspended until January 15th.
Sophie Hirtle was asked about how the suspension has affected her and her team. “I am grateful that the suspension didn’t take up our whole season… I think it was a wake up call to a lot of the swimmers to take Covid more seriously.”
Amari Andrew-Brown’s goal at the beginning of the season was to score 1,000 points. The suspension may have put a hold on that, but he is determined to achieve it.
“[The suspension] has been sad and disappointing but I am still on track to get it. It is going to be a hard task but I really do hope I can get it this year for sure in the Hockomock Cup.”
The girls basketball team is no longer in quarantine; they play their first game since their return tonight! Elaine Holbrook spoke for the team: “I am very proud of how our program has been diligent… We are so looking forward to the season underway and hope for a full schedule.” Senior Night is tonight! Congratulations to Jessica Erlich, Caroline Flynn, and Kelsey Yelle!
Finally, Bill Matthews covered the quarantine protocol: when a player presents symptoms, they are separated from others until they get negative results and the quarantine period is over. Contact tracers find who may have been in close contact with the exposed person and they all go into quarantine for the specified time.