LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Wednesday, Governor Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-180, which clarifies the rules on face coverings for organized sports during training, practice and competition.
“The COVID-19 virus is easily spread through airborne particles and can affect everyone differently. By wearing a face covering when proper distancing is not possible, athletes will be better protected from contracting the virus and spreading it to family members, frontline workers, and vulnerable populations,” Governor Whitmer said in a statement. “We cannot afford to let our guard down. As we continue to fight this virus, we need to make smart and informed choices so we can beat COVID-19 together.”
Executive Order 2020-180 specifies that a face covering must be worn at all times by athletes training for, practicing for, or competing in an organized sport when the athlete cannot maintain 6 feet of social distance, except for occasional and fleeting moments.
Athletes are not required to wear a face covering if they are swimming. Athletes competing in football, soccer, or volleyball, for example, are not able to maintain 6 feet of social distance as required, and therefore would need to wear a facial covering.
“We are not out of the woods yet, and COVID-19 is still a persistent threat to our frontline workers, students, and families,” Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said. “Individuals have a choice about whether or not to play organized sports. Since contact sports pose a high risk of transmitting COVID-19, MDHHS recommends that people should choose to avoid them. For those who do choose to play organized sports, we expect you to follow these strict safety measures and wear a face covering to reduce your risk and protect the health of your teammates, coaches, officials, and loved ones.”
Additionally, The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) released guidance on organized sports recommending against contact sports at this time.
It also cites the elevated risk associated with activities that involve “shouting, singing, or breathing forcefully,” and notes there have been 30 reported outbreaks associated with athletic clubs, teams, or athletic facilities.
MDHHS’ guidance recommends mitigation measures organized sports teams may take to reduce the spread of COVID-19 during training, practices, and competitions.
These recommendations include frequent hand washing, not letting players share towels, clothing, or other items they use to wipe their faces or hands, ensuring proper cleaning and disinfection of objects and equipment, prioritizing outdoor practice, and more.
This news comes as gyms and fitness centers across the state are reopening Wednesday. More information on restrictions pertaining to those facilities can be viewed here.
To view Executive Order 2020-180, click the link below:
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