CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Illinois High School Association is easing up some of its COVID prevention requirements for some athletes, following guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health.
During a board meeting on Monday, the IHSA announced that athletes competing in low-risk outdoor sports and activities are no longer required to wear face masks while competing. But, if athletes not on the field of play, for instance sitting on the bench, they are still required to wear masks.
In-season IHSA low-risk outdoor sports and activities impacted by this update include baseball, softball, tennis, track and field, and bass fishing.
Officials in these sports and activities must continue to wear face masks, unless they are socially distanced, IHSA said.
Meanwhile, the Illinois Department of Public Health recommended that athletes in high-risk sports be tested for COVID-19. IDPH announced that the state will fund optional testing for any school teams who wish to test their high-risk sports teams.
In-season IHSA high-risk sports include football, boys lacrosse, and wrestling.
For an updated version of the IDPH All-Sports Policy visit the sports safety guidance webpage.