By Joshua Carlson
Soon after the April 1 “state of disaster” issued by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA)decided to cancel the remaining 2019-20 winter sports related events and all spring sport seasons due to COVID-19.
This decision came after the initial “suspension” that was made for the playoffs of the winter sports seasons in Michigan on March 12. Many players- especially seniors-, coaches, and fans had hoped that MHSAA would monitor the pandemic and hopefully resume any suspended games or playoffs at a later date, but were saddened to find out that would not be happening.
In a statement released by MHSAA, Executive Mark Uyl addressed those affected by the decision.
“We are heartbroken to not be able to provide these opportunities for Michigan’s student-athletes, and especially seniors. We continue to hear from dozens asking us to hold out hope. But safety always must come first, and Governor Whitmer is making courageous decisions to safeguard the people of our state,” Uyl said.
Uyl continues, “We understand as much as anyone how much school sports mean to athletes and their communities. We had ideas and hopes for finishing Winter and Spring and helping bring some sort of normalcy after this long break. But this is the correct decision, and we will play our part in bringing schools and communities together again when the time is right.
