The following is a note from Section XI Executive Director Tom Combs: 

The winter 2021 season will go down as one of the most unpredictable ever.

Having not played sports since March 2020, we finally approved playing low and moderate risk sports and seeing our bowling, winter track, fencing and boys swimming was quite a boost to our athletic passion at Section XI. When the state finally approved high risk sports to begin on February 1, within a weeks’ time many details had to be finalized to allow this to occur at our normal high level.

So many people put it into over gear to ensure our high level of competition we are accustomed with. Section XI Assistant Executive Director Pete Blieberg prepared schedules that were amended numerous times with the assistance of the ADs, sport chairs and the input of the coaches association wishes.

The Section XI sport coordinators were charged with putting it all together by assigning the officials who were willing to work seven days per week, sometimes doing double headers to allow for the maximum number of competitions to be completed.

The student-athletes made a pledge to practice safe behaviors, and the  majority were successful. The coaches were accommodating under the pleading of the ADs to alter past rituals and institute new practices to ensure social distancing, innovative means to not share equipment and many additional Covid related initiatives to allow the season to become a reality. Our parents have been there every step of the way, passionately hoping for sports for their children and keeping them ready and safe through this very trying time. We are also so thankful for the nurses and district admins and workers who have been in the thick of the health and safety protocols to keep the programs safe.

It takes a village working together. As we look forward to our “fall” season beginning today, we are battle tested and ready to move forward. We all want to LET THE KIDS PLAY!