The Iowa High School Athletic Association published track & field COVID-19 guidelines earlier this week. The first official practice date is March 1 with the first indoor competition allowed as soon as March 8. The Greene County teams are planning to take part in the Dickinson Relays inside the UNI-Dome in Cedar Falls the week of March 8, although, due to COVID, coaches submit events for entry into the meet and meet officials have to accept the entry, which means a reduced field of participants compared to other years.

Schools are asked to read a public address announcement at the start of a meet encouraging people to social distance and remind spectators to do their part to keep their kids healthy and active. No hugging, shaking hands, high fives, or fist bumps are allowed. Social distancing of 6 feet or more should be maintained as much as possible. It is recommended that all coaches and participants wear masks except during competition, and all fans are strongly encouraged to wear cloth masks, sit with family members, and social distance from non-family members. Extra sanitizing measures will also be in place, and a possible rule change consideration involves relay batons. Under consideration is allowing competitors to wear gloves in relay races and in individual events.

The full list of guidelines is available at iahsaa.org.