YUHSD athletic programs to reopen June 15 for limited activity

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Athletic programs across Yuma Union High School District (YUHSD) will reopen on Monday, June 15 for limited activity.

This comes after a nearly three-month shutdown due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. YUHSD says this reopening is in accordance with Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) guidelines for “phase one” of reopening.  

"We are excited for some form of athletics to return. Even if it's in a limited form right now, the students are why all of us are here and it will be great to see them back on our campuses," Gila Ridge High School Athletic Director Steve Anderson said.

"The district is waiting until June 15 to open offseason practices in order to finalize procedures to ensure student safety. It also allows time for athletes to get cleared through Register My Athlete and for our coaches to fully understand the safety protocols that are put in place."  

Student-athletes will be socially distanced in groups of no more than 10 individuals, will remain outdoors, and will be screened before each practice for COVID-19 symptoms via a brief survey.

Student-athletes are strongly encouraged to bring their own water bottle to any on-campus workout.

YUHSD says that while programs district-wide will wait until June 15 for in-person activity, virtual coaching will begin immediately.

A Facebook Live event will take place from 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, June 11, to allow families to ask questions regarding athletics.

Those interested in asking a question in advance of the information session, and further assuring it’s received, are encouraged to fill out this brief submission form online: https://bit.ly/YUHSDAthleticsQuestions.