CCS athletes will get back in weight room next week

    June 1 is another target date set by Gov. Pete Ricketts for more easing of state COVID-19 regulations.
    Among the areas given the go-ahead to reopen on June 1 are school weight rooms.
    Troy Hauxwell, A.D. at Chase County Schools, didn’t waste time in planning for the weight room to open back up next week. On Monday, grade 7-12 athletes will begin a three-day-a-week schedule for weight room use.
    While he’s had requests from others, Hauxwell said the weight room will be open only for athletes at CCS at this time.
    “For this first week or so, we’re going to try this, see what the numbers look like and how the disinfecting goes,” he said.
    Here’s the daily schedule set up for June 1, 2 and 4:
    6-7 a.m. High school boys.
    7:15-8:15 a.m. High school girls.
    8:30-9:30 a.m. Jr. high boys and girls. Due to larger numbers, one group will be in the auxiliary gym and one group in the weight room.
    School staff will be disinfecting the equipment and weight room between sessions.    
     Hauxwell encourages student/athletes to bring their own water bottles and towels. While not required, they should bring a mask if they want to wear one.
    “And don’t come early,” he added.
    That will allow time for the disinfecting and for the previous group to exit with limited interaction, he said.
    The new guidelines effective June 1 allow up to 25 people in large groups now with proper distancing. School staff will be marking off six-foot spacing, Hauxwell said, which is strongly encouraged in the new guidelines from the Governor’s office.    
    Other additional requirements sent to schools this week by the Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) include:
    Sessions can only include weightlifting, running and exercises designed to promote physical fitness.
    Sport-specific drills are not permitted, and sport-specific equipment may not be used as part of school-sponsored summer conditioning.
    Once groups are determined, students may not switch from one group to another.
    Cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched objects and surfaces is required following the guidance of the CDC.
    The NSAA letter to schools added, “While permitting school-sponsored summertime conditioning programs, prioritizing the health and safety of all students and staff must remain the focus of each NSAA member school.”
    Parents and students with questions can contact Hauxwell at the school.