Albany, NY (WBEN) High risk sports such as hockey and basketball can resume under Governor Cuomo's guidelines. However, there's a catch: local health departments must sign off on the plan.
The updated response allows for high school and recreational activities to resume February 1st.
"Effective February 1, 2021, participants in higher risk sports and recreation activities may partake in individual or distanced group training and organized no/low-contact group training and, further, may partake in other types of play, including competitions and tournaments, only as permitted by the respective local health authorities (i.e., county health departments)," says the state.
"Local health authorities should consider the following factors in authorizing or continuing to prohibit higher risk sports and recreational activities as, in many areas, these factors may weigh against permitting such activities: whether there has been a more-transmissible variant of COVID-19 identified in the area, local rates of COVID-19 transmission or rate of positivity, and local ability to monitor and enforce compliance," the statement continues.
In its new guidance, the state cautions travel for practice or play is prohibited outside of the region or contiguous counties/regions. Previously, high risk sports could only have non-contact drills and distanced activities.
State Senate Republican Leader Robert Ortt issued this statement: "Today's decision by New York State to allow the resumption of 'high risk' sports such a youth hockey, football, basketball, and more is welcome news for all of the participants of these sports, their coaches, and their families. As I said at a recent rally in Amherst, youth sports are about more than just competition. They represent a community, friendship and are a tool used to learn valuable life lessons. Although this season may be a bit different for many of the athletes involved in these sports, the fact they will be able to get back between the lines and safely join their teammates in friendly competition once again is outstanding."
