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PIAA speaks with Wolf’s staff

MECHANICSBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association discussed with representatives of Gov. Tom Wolf’s office on Friday, options for starting fall sports.

“We discussed many different scenarios, including schools’ health and sports’ safety strategies, local liability protection and options for moving ahead with fall sports,” the PIAA said in a press release. “The Governor’s staff repeatedly indicated this is a local school decision.”

The release continued: “PIAA is concerned that the Governor’s “strong” recommendation last week, and comments in (Thursday’s) press conference, were not based upon Pennsylvania sports specific data and the recommendation has been perceived as a mandate by member schools.”

The PIAA noted it is “very aware of the negative impact postponement of fall sports will have upon our 350,000 student-athletes and their families. “

Noted PIAA Executive Director Dr. Robert A. Lombardi: “We will continue to be advocates for athletic activities that promote the health, and safety, social, emotional, and mental well-being of student-athletes.”

Since March, PIAA has taken a measured approach in a step-by-step basis to help its membership in developing Return to Competition Guidelines that will assist in providing schools with a framework to develop best practices for a safe return to play. To that end, the PIAA Board of Directors will meet again on Aug. 21 to discuss the starting of fall sports.

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