IHSA Reveals Football Schedules: See Who Shepard Faces

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL — Are you ready for some football? With contact days beginning Sunday for Illinois High School Association schools, it's fitting that this fall's football schedule has been announced. Expect things to look a little different under the Friday night lights as schools and spectators adjust to the many challenges COVID-19 will surely present to competitive sports.

The IHSA is asking school districts to work with their local health departments on current restrictions in their area prior to beginning contact. Local school administration determine the permitted activities at their school, according to a press release from the IHSA.

"Prioritizing the health and safety of all students and staff must remain the focus of each IHSA member school," the release said.

If schools choose to permit spectators, there should be a designated area for spectators with existing seating capped at 20 percent of capacity. Also, IHSA guidelines allow for gatherings of 50 participants, including players and coaches.

Alan B. Shepard High School is tentatively set to open play on the road Aug. 28 at Kankakee High School. Players are currently participating in conditioning workouts under Illinois's Phase 3 guidelines. The Astros are coached by John Rone.

More on Patch:
50 Players, Limited Spectators Allowed In IHSA Stage 2
IHSA Reveals Guidelines For High School Athletes Resuming Play

Patch Editor Eric DeGrechie contributed to this report.