CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The North Carolina High School Athletics Association has delayed the start of fall sports in the state until at least September 1due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The NCHSAA Board of Directors approved the rule and calendar changes Wednesday, followingGov. Roy Cooper's decision on how schools will reopen this fallwith a blend of in-person and remote learning.
According to the NCHSAA, Sept. 1 is the first day that official practice can begin. Games would not start until weeks later.
According to a release from the NCHSAA, the first five student days of the school year will be designated as a "dead period" for all sports, allowing school staff to focus on the new year.
Phase One of the NCHSAA's summer conditioning and workouts will continue until further notice. Commissioner Que Tucker said the delayed start is not set in stone and could be delayed even further if necessary.