Hello Ravens,

Though many of you may have seen this release already, I wanted to share with you yesterday’s MHSAA guidance.  Please know that our lead throughout this process has been and will continue to be the MHSAA, our local health department, and our Royal Oak Schools leadership.  Highlights from the release are as follows:

1. Football: reinstated, practice begins Tuesday Sept 8 (helmets and shoulder pads only), 1st game Sept 18, vs Troy 7pm @ ROHS

2. Soccer: competition can begin immediately, 1st games Tuesday Sept 8, all three levels, F/JV/V, 4/5:30/7pm vs Troy @ ROHS

3. Swim & Dive/Volleyball: practice and competitions can begin indoors, Wed Sept 9

4. XC/Tennis/Golf: proceed as normal

5. We will continue to follow our health protocols, screening surveys, temp checks, mask wearing, social distancing, and cleaning/sanitizing as needed

6. Outdoor spectator limits will be two spectators per participant. While the guidance calls for two spectators per participant for indoor as well, this remains under review by Royal Oak Schools. Tickets will be provided via pre-event distribution (given to participants the night before) or a will-call process.  Each sport will receive specific communication soon.  Spectators must wear facial coverings and obey social distancing guidelines at all times. Admission will still be charged at applicable events hosted by Royal Oak. 

7. Facial coverings are required for all participants, except for swimmers or those who can ensure 6 feet social distancing. The MHSAA is seeking further interpretations, especially for our high aerobic sports.  

8. On the field and off the field event/game protocols and processes will look different than what we are accustomed to.  This is being done to maximize the health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, and fans. Your patience, support, and cooperation is greatly appreciated.

9. Spring Sports: 16 allowed days of voluntary coach-player contact for spring sports may occur from September 8-October 31

To view the recent Governor’s executive order pertaining to organized sports, as well as the full MHSAA release, you can click on the following links:

EO 2020-176

MHSAA Guidance 9-3-2020

For athletic game schedules, please visit our website, www.goroathletics.org (click on Fall, sport, level, then schedule).  Please note that our league is reviewing schedules and there will be changes upcoming.  Regardless, our website will continue be the best place to view the most up-to-date game schedules.

Information continues to flow in and we appreciate your versatility and flexibility.  As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly at donald.watchowski@royaloakschools.org.  TOGETHER, let’s have a safe, healthy, cooperative, and competitive Fall season! GORO!