GAINESVILLE, FL – In response to Governor DeSantis’ closure of Florida schools through April 15th, and following the Florida Department of Education Guidance Memorandum from March 17, 2020, the FHSAA has made the decision to postpone all scheduled FHSAA meetings, conferences, and athletic events until further notice.
Pending schools are back in session and afforded the opportunity to resume activities after April 15th, by Federal, State and Local authorities, the FHSAA will follow the recommendations and guidance available to us at that time regarding the continuance of all FHSAA spring sports and other planned meetings and conferences.
In his press conference on March 17th, among numerous other academic accommodations, Governor DeSantis did afford parents the choice to retain their child. Be advised that FHSAA Bylaw 9.5.1, will still be in effect.
It states: A student is limited to eight consecutive semesters of eligibility beginning with the semester he/she begins ninth grade for the first time. This does not imply that the student has eight semesters of participation. After eight consecutive semesters, the student is permanently ineligible.
Any possible change to this Bylaw would need to be addressed by the FHSAA Representative Assembly.
The health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, administrators, officials, fans and local communities are our top priority. We appreciate all member schools’ cooperation in following Federal, State and Local recommendations and mandates during this time.
For the most up-to-date information, please visit the FHSAA website. The FHSAA staff will continue to follow the latest developments and will continue to provide updated information as deemed necessary. The FHSAA office will remain closed following the Governor’s recommendation. However, staff will continue to work remotely, during regular business hours.
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Florida Health Department Update The most recent update from the Florida Department of Health states the following: “If you have returned from ANY international travel or a cruise within the last 14 days and you’re sick, call your health care provider or county health department. The elderly and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems and diabetes are more likely to develop serious illness. Wash your hands with soap & water. Cover your coughs & sneezes with your arm, not your hands. If you’re sick, stay at home & avoid crowds.”
