Youth Sports Can Begin Again In Minnesota: Read New Guidelines

TWIN CITIES, MN — Youth sports teams across the state can start returning to competition Friday, provided they follow the guidance set by the Minnesota Department of Health. Among the guidelines is that coaches, staff and spectators should practice social distancing and to wear a face covering at all times.

Players are asked to wear a face covering "when possible." All adults and children involved in the activities should wash or sanitize hands often, and keep hands away from their faces.

Organizations are required to have a COVID-19 preparedness plan that integrates MDH guidance as well as current social distancing and social gathering requirements.

Additional precautions in the new guidance include:

• Avoid sharing individual water bottles, community snacks or towels.
• Encourage use of dedicated personal equipment such as bats, mitts, rackets, etc.
• Find new ways to show sportsmanship – tip your hats instead of handshakes.
• Ensure policies are considerate of staff, volunteers and participants at highest risk of complications from COVID-19.
• Adhere to social distancing recommendations when participants are not playing (on the bench, in the dugout, etc.).
• Practice social distancing of 6 feet from other households during player drop off/pick up.
• Friends and family should not attend practices to avoid crowding.
• Maintain health checks and screening of participants and staff/volunteers.
• Organizations should require participants and family members to stay home when sick.

The state guidance was developed in collaboration with stakeholders including the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission and the Higher Education Athletic Task Force, according to a news release.

The Minnesota Department of Education is partnering with the Minnesota State High School League to develop activities and sports guidance for schools this fall.

Read the full guidance below: