In anticipation of Columbia County reaching a seven-day rolling average positivity rate of 4% or less, we would like to make sure our student athletes who plan on trying out for a winter sports team are signed up.
Pending approval from the Columbia County Department of Health (DOH), the District Medical Director, and the Hudson City School District Board of Education, our limited Winter Season will offer JV and Varsity Girls/Boys Basketball and Varsity Boys Volleyball. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer Modified sports and Cheerleading this season due to a lack of officials and/or gym availability resulting from the safety precautions that must be taken before, during, and after each team practice/game.
For the above sports to begin, the DOH requires that the County’s seven-day rolling average positivity rate be at or below 4 percent. As of February 8th, the County’s COVID-19 seven-day rolling average has dropped to 4.3% and could be at the 4% rate in the near future.
A Sport-Specific Preparedness Plan for High-Risk Sports will be presented to the Board of Education on Tuesday, February 16th. Once the County’s seven-day rolling average positivity rate reaches 4% or below, and pending approval from the HCSD Medical Director and Board of Education, we can begin tryouts for JV and Varsity Girls/Boys Basketball and Varsity Boys Volleyball.
How will I know when tryouts are?
Once we hit the 4% threshold, a notice stating the time and place of tryouts along with the required health and safety procedures will be sent by email and posted on the District website (www.hudsoncsd.org/athletics), Hudson High School and Hudson Athletics Facebook pages. Coaches will also reach out to those who have signed up. We anticipate the Plan to be approved by the Board of Education on February 16th if the rolling average is 4% or below, therefore we can begin tryouts on Tuesday, February 16th (please note this date is during winter recess). Again, coaches will contact those who have signed up directly. The limited season would run through March 13th.
What are the safety protocols?
Masks/face coverings must be worn whenever possible and daily health screenings will continue. Only a limited number of athletes will be allowed in locker rooms at a time. Additionally, all student athletes will be required to receive a rapid test once a week in accordance with Columbia County Department of Health guidelines. Please see the attached forms (there are three) and return the signed forms when tryouts begin:
The complete Sport-Specific Preparedness Plan for High-Risk Sports will be posted on our website after it is approved.
How do I sign up for a winter sport?
If you have not already signed up for a winter sport and you would like to try out for JV/Varsity Girls/Boys Basketball or Varsity Boys Volleyball, please complete the Basketball and Volleyball Sign-up Form.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via email at reardond@hudsoncsd.org.
Thank you!
Derek W. Reardon
Athletic Director