Athletic Department Blog Updates
4/20/21 – Separate Weight Classes for Girls, Choice of Weight Classes Established in High School Wrestling
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — States will have a choice of 12, 13 or 14 weight classes for both boys and girls competition in high school wrestling, effective with the 2023-24 season.
This will be the first separate weight classes established for girls in high school wrestling, and it marks the first time that state associations will have a choice in the number of weight classes.
The landmark change in weight classes was one of several significant revisions recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Wrestling Rules Committee at its April 7-9 meeting held virtually this year. All recommendations were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
States must select one of the three sets (12, 13 or 14) of weight classes for girls and one of the three sets (12, 13 or 14) for boys. States cannot adopt all three sets and cannot switch back and forth during the season.
The […]
04/15/21 – Standing Forward Takeoffs Approved in High School Swimming and Diving Rules
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In an effort to increase participation in high school swimming and diving, standing forward takeoffs have been approved, effective with the 2021-22 school year.
This significant addition to high school diving was one of several rules changes recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Swimming and Diving Rules Committee at its March 21-23 meeting held virtually this year. All of the committee’s recommended rules revisions were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
The addition to Rule 9-5-2 states that for standing takeoffs, “the diver will assume a starting position that includes an upright head and body with arms straight and in a position of the diver’s choice. The diver may move the arms to various preparatory positions provided there is no attempt to start the dive.”
The new language also notes that just before or after the starting position is assumed, the diver shall stop oscillating […]
04/12/21- Senate Bill 128: Supplemental School Year Program Guidance for Sports and Sport-Activities
For a complete list of the provisions and information related to the implementation of SB128 and the SSYP, please see the following document-
04/11/21- Reminders about Off-season Team Sport Allowances and Restrictions
With the conclusion of basketball season, member schools are reminded of the regulations regarding off-season play. There have been no additional adjustments enacted, considered or contemplated at this time by the Commissioner’s office or the Board of Control for play by students and participation by coaches. While member schools are expected at all times to adhere to sport mitigation strategies as detailed in the COVID-19 documentation, no further adjustments to Bylaw 23 have been made.
The Bylaw references are Bylaw 23, listed in its entirety at https://bit.ly/2RGO1ZE, Section 1 of this bylaw applies to all sports and sport-activities.
Keep in mind the following references:
- Bylaw 23, Sec. 1 (c) – Defines the end of school. The rules prior to the end of school are somewhat more restrictive than the rules after the conclusion of the school year. Per Bylaw 23, the end of school is defined – For all interpretations and regulations concerning […]
04/06/21 – Reducing Injury Risk During Inversions, Release Stunts and Tosses Focus of 2021-22 High School Spirit Rules Changes
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Adjusted points of contact that reduce injury risk during inversions and release stunts and tosses are the most notable revisions in the 2021-22 high school spirit rules.
At its recent virtual meeting, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Spirit Rules Committee produced rules changes that emphasized the committee’s continued focus on risk minimization. A total of seven proposals were recommended to the NFHS Board of Directors, which reviewed and later approved the changes to take effect next year.
“The NFHS Spirit Rules Committee continues its efforts to increase the health and safety of all cheer and dance participants,” said Dr. James Weaver, NFHS director of performing arts and sports and liaison to the NFHS Spirit Rules Committee. “This year’s rules changes allow for good safety practices and allow for education and practice in the sport of spirit.”
To reduce injury risk for the top person in a pyramid during […]
04/05/21- Spring Sports Guidance Revision
TEMPERATURE CHECK AT CONTESTS AND PRACTICES
Following consultation with the Kentucky Department for Public Health and in the review of recent guidance and research, the requirement for monitoring the temperatures of attendees at athletic practices and contests has been suspended. While there remain considerable differences between an environment in near-exclusive school-aged student populations and events that gather the community in general, there does not appear to be a significant enough correlation between temperature and the virus to prevent the suspension of the requirement. While many COVID-positive patients do present with a fever, research over these last months is inconclusive as to cause, effect, and spread.
The guidance documents online will be changed in the coming days to reflect this change, but it can be implemented immediately and will mirror recent changes to the overall guidance from the Department of Education in its school day documentation. The references to temperature checks and alternative actions caused by […]
03/23/21 – Nominations for KHSAA Student Advisory Group/NFHS National Student Leadership Summit Now Being Accepted
The KHSAA is seeking applications to become a member of its Student Advisory Group. One of the main duties of the group is the planning and execution of its HYPE Student Leadership Conferences. Those chosen attend the NFHS National Student Leadership Summit in July and then manage the KHSAA HYPE Conferences.
The National Federation of State High School Associations offers a student leadership initiative – the National Student Leadership Summit (NSLS). The NSLS will focus on relevant and contemporary issues affecting today’s students in education-based athletics and performing arts. Students will sharpen their leadership skills and will realize the privilege and power of their influence in their school, community, and state.
At this time, the NFHS is planning on an in-person Summit scheduled for July 20-22, 2021 in Indianapolis. If selected, expenses from Lexington to Indianapolis are covered (meals, lodging, transportation). By applying and being selected, the student is acknowledging that he/she will be […]
03/22/21 – Last Call for Complete Sets of Tickets to KHSAA Boys’ Sweet 16® Presented by UK HealthCare & Orthopaedics
A limited number of sets of tickets (books of seats for the entire tournament) are available for the KHSAA Boys’ Sweet 16® Tournament presented by UK HealthCare and Orthopaedics. The tournament will be held from March 31 to April 3. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions in place in conjunction with the current Governor’s orders and Department for Public Health guidelines, seating is limited and online purchases are sold in sets of 2 to 6 seats for the entire tournament. Adjust the Qty in the top left portion of the screen and then click on the illuminated section(s) to see available inventory in the desired quantity. The available sets of tickets for all fifteen games will be sold through Friday, March 26 after which time, all seats will be single tickets for each game.
03/16/21 – Esports Nominations Sought for Midway Student-Athlete of the Year Awards
This message is being sent to Athletic Directors and Head Coaches in the sport-activity of Esports …
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award among Esports participants for 2020-2021 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2020-2021 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet at Midway University in early summer 2021. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the overall 2020-2021 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the banquet. All winners will […]
03/10/21 – Bass Fishing Nominations Sought for Midway Student-Athlete of the Year Awards
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award among Bass Fishing participants for 2020-2021 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2020-2021 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet at Midway University in early summer 2021. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the overall 2020-2021 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the banquet. All winners will also receive their recognition at that banquet.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete […]
03/09/21- Seeded District Reminders
Over the last couple of days, we have had several questions regarding district seeding and it is best that we summarize a few things before the deadline to play those games tomorrow. Nothing about this information is new, but these do represent the number of questions that have been received.
All of this relates solely to seeded district games.
From the January 15 notice to the schools-
TIEBREAKING GAMES-WHICH GAME
A reminder from the guidance document, if a district has voted to play multiple times for seeding, the first game played shall be the tiebreaking game in the seed pattern, regardless of previous decisions. Much like decisions to have senior night activities very early, as many are doing, there is no guarantee of the second game, and this will ensure that as much as possible, ties are broken on the court. In specific districts, those schools voted again after the original guidance was issued and […]
02/24/21 – Bass Fishing Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Bass Fishing is available beginning today, February 24, 2021. Remember, the clinic is required of all coaches at the varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen levels, regardless of whether or not the coach receives pay. Below is additional information:
COACHES
- February 24 to March 16 (Coaches) – the Bass Fishing Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- March 17 to April 5 (Coaches) – the Bass Fishing Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- April 6 to April 19 (Coaches) – the Bass Fishing Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw 27 schedule during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply.
The presentation can be viewed on most PC […]
02/21/21- District and Region Basketball Scheduling of Games
As we continually review public health data, consult with the Department for Public Health, and refer to our own “Healthy at Sports” guidance document, a standard minimum time between the start of contests at the district and regional postseason events has again been established as was the case in the fall. These minimum times and spacing guidelines will also be utilized in planning KHSAA State Championship Events, likely to an even greater extent.
Per the KHSAA’s “Healthy at Sports” guidance document, in events where more than two schools are involved, it is required for there to be time between contests for egress of fans and participants, sanitization of equipment and restrooms, and ingress of the teams for the next game. In considering this requirement, a realistic standard has been developed.
When developing brackets for basketball, there should be a minimum of two hours between the start of contests being held on the same […]
02/20/21- Interim Guidance Regarding Spring Sports Travel
While spring sports guidance is in final production, the office has received several inquiries regarding travel for spring sports. There will effectively be no changes from the winter sports guidance and each guidance document will include enhancements and sources available at the present time. The following represents the recommended guidance for the member schools and will be published in the guidance documents for all spring sports and sport-activities.
Restrictions/Recommendations On In-State Contests
- While local decision-making is a hallmark relative to the management of Kentucky schools, there remain several recommendations relative to team travel in- and out-of-state. (CONSIDER)
- This guidance is not intended to make local district decisions less or more difficult or provide an arbitrary decision path for such consideration, but rather to ensure that all issues are considered as travel is contemplated. (CONSIDER)
- This guidance and similar guidance from the KHSAA, KDE and KDPH is aimed at mitigating the risk of COVID-19 exposure […]
02/15/21 – Board of Control Election Procedures
BOARD OF CONTROL BALLOT – BOARD OF CONTROL ELECTIONS – INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE BALLOT:
- Balloting is ONLY done online for these positions.
- All schools from Basketball Regions 1, 2, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 have at least one election in which to ballot. Other schools may disregard this notice.
- Balloting was available per the Constitution beginning on February 15.
- Only the Principal or Designated Representative may vote. The names on file as verified by the KHSAA website at the time of this ballot distribution are listed on the school directory page at http://khsaa.org/general/resources/member-school-directory/.
- If the wrong individual is listed as the Designated Representative, the correction may be made by anyone with Athletic Director system rights (Principal, AD) prior to the ballot being submitted. For support in correcting these entries, contact Rob Catron or Kara Howard at the KHSAA offices, however the change will be for all […]
02/18/21 – Esports Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Esports is now available online. Remember, the clinic is required of all coaches at the varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen levels, regardless of whether or not the coach receives pay. Below is additional information:
COACHES
- February 15 to April 5 (Coaches) – the Esports Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- April 6 to April 25 (Coaches) – the Esports Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- April 26 to May 3 (Coaches) – the Esports Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw 27 schedule during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply.
The presentation can be viewed on most PC or Mac desktops and laptops, along with […]
02/08/21 – Face Masks, Religious Headwear Major Topics of 2021 Field Hockey Rules Changes
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Guidance for the use of face masks and the allowance of religious headwear to be worn during play without state association consent are among the most significant rules changes that will take effect with the 2021 high school field hockey season.
During its virtual meeting held January 11-13, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Field Hockey Rules Committee included these subjects in its list of eight proposed rules changes that were reviewed and later approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“Given that many schools played a modified or shortened season with the 2020 rules and some have not yet played or may not play, the committee thought it wise to limit changes to the 2021 rules,” said Anna Saccoccio, chair of the NFHS Field Hockey Rules Committee. “Safety of players is always a main concern, and the 2021 rules will clarify any confusion and concerns around the use […]
02/05/21 – Blocking Below the Waist in Free-Blocking Zone Addressed in High School Football Rules
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – The rule regarding blocking below the waist in the free-blocking zone in high school football has been revised for the upcoming 2021 season.
This rule change was recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Football Rules Committee at its January 10-12 meeting, which was held virtually this year. This change to the 2021 NFHS Football Rules Book was subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
As a result of numerous interpretations of current language regarding blocking below the waist in the free-blocking zone, the committee approved another condition in Rule 2-17-2 that must be met for a legal block below the waist in the free-blocking zone, which is a rectangular area extending laterally 4 yards either side of the spot of the snap and 3 yards behind each line of scrimmage.
The new requirement (2-17-2c) is that the block must be an immediate, initial action following the […]
01/28/21 – NFHS Announces Universal Tennis as New Official Partner
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has announced a new official partnership with Universal Tennis, a global online platform for connecting players, coaches, clubs and federations to grow the sport.
Universal Tennis is most widely known for the Universal Tennis Rating (UTR), a system that provides an accurate rating for every participating tennis player in the world regardless of age, gender or nationality. The UTR algorithm uses scores and quality of opponents from a player’s past 30 eligible matches to calculate a listing value on a point scale between 1 and 16.50. Players also have access to additional statistics that allow for a better understanding of personal performance as they track their improvement. With more than 2.3 million users from about 125 countries, UTR seeks to help players find better matches for any skill level.
“The NFHS is excited to partner with Universal Tennis to help enhance the game […]
02/04/21 – Religious Headwear Permitted Without State Association Approval in High School Volleyball
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — High school volleyball players will no longer need to obtain state association approval to wear religious headwear during competition. The rule change highlights three changes approved for the 2021-22 season.
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Volleyball Rules Committee conducted its annual meeting January 10-12 in a virtual setting and recommended three rules changes that were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“The Volleyball Rules Committee strongly considered both the financial impact and participation restrictions COVID-19 had on schools and state associations during the 2020-21 season as they approached the proposed rules changes,” said Lindsey Atkinson, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the Volleyball Rules Committee. “In doing so, the committee focused on rules that make the sport more inclusive by easing the restrictions on religious headwear, provided state associations with more flexibility in regard to officials uniforms, and lessened the penalty for a late lineup.”
[…]02/04/21 – 2020-2021 Title IX Annual Report and Participation List Submission
Schools are now able to access all of the required online forms to submit their 2020-2021 Title IX Annual Reports. The information in this post presents a summary for each school as you work to complete the required Annual Participation Report as well as the Title IX Report for 2020-2021.
- The deadline for submission is April 30, 2021.
- The online system is currently available for entry and is the only acceptable means of submitting the report.
- If you have specific questions about Title IX and the law itself, our office should be able to help get you some assistance. Asst. Commissioner Darren Bilberry (dbilberry@khsaa.org) is our primary contact for your questions related to the law and its interpretations, and the Commissioner and General Counsel are available should you have other inquiries of that type.
- As for the reports, Information Technology Director Rob Catron (rcatron@khsaa.org) can assist you with electronic issues, including login and report […]
02/03/21 – Archery Nominations Sought for Male and Female Midway Student-Athlete of the Year Awards
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award among Archery participants for 2020-2021 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2020-2021 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet at Midway University in early summer 2021. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the overall 2020-2021 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the banquet. All winners will also receive their recognition at that banquet.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of […]
02/03/21 – Archery Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Archery is available beginning today, February 3, 2021. Remember, the clinic is required of all coaches at the varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen levels, regardless of whether or not the coach receives pay. Below is additional information:
COACHES
- February 3 to February 22 (Coaches) – the Archery Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- February 23 to March 7 (Coaches) – the Archery Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- March 8 to March 15 (Coaches) – the Archery Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw 27 schedule during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply.
The presentation can be viewed on most PC or Mac desktops and laptops, along […]
01/29/21 – Applications Being Accepted for Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships for 20-21
When former Commissioner Louis Stout passed away in 2012, his widow Anna directed that donations on his behalf go to the Louis Stout Memorial Fund for Students. She felt this was a chance for the KHSAA to honor student-athletes who excel in athletics, academics, school service and community service. The award process for 2020-2021 is now underway.
Applications are being accepted for students to apply for those awards through Sunday, February 28, 2021. The award winners will be announced in conjunction with the boys’ state basketball tournament in March. Two grants, each in the amount of a one-time scholarship of $2,000 payable to an institution of higher learning, will be awarded. The scholarship is not renewable and is not endowed for expansion. Minimum criteria is a 3.5 (converted to 4.0 scale) grade point average; involvement in varsity sports or sport-activities; involvement in other school activities, a record of community service/involvement and a member of the […]
01/26/21- Reminders about Sports and Sport-Activity Return to Play
In the past couple of weeks, there have been several questions regarding the COVID-19 Return to Play protocol. There have been no changes to the protocol since it was adopted early part of the fall prior to the start of play, but the questions coming in lately indicate the need for a refresher.
Rather than detail the policy again in this post, both the required and recommended elements can be reviewed on the KHSAA website at https://bit.ly/2SQDOxm
Below are listed various questions that have been presented and the appropriate responses. This information will be updated as necessary as either additional inquiries occur, or further data or recommendations are issued.
What is the difference between isolation and quarantine?
- Isolation separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick. (dealing with the person who has tested positive)
- Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious […]
01/26/21- Basketball Nominations Sought for Male and Female Midway Student Athlete-of-the-Year Awards
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete-of-the-Year among rostered Basketball participants for 2020-2021 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2020-2021 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet scheduled to be held at Midway University in early summer 2021. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2020-2021 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete-of-the-Year and announced at that time. All winners will also receive their recognition awards at that time.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year […]
01/25/21 – List of Items for Annual Required Financial Aid Report
As you may recall, the 2019-20 financial aid report was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is now time for ALL KHSAA member schools to complete the required annual financial aid report in compliance with Bylaw 11 for the 2019-2020 academic year. In an effort to assist Principals and Athletic Directors in preparing for this report, this checklist of information is provided so that you can spend a few days gathering the required data and information prior to the deadline to complete the report.
The link to submit the financial aid report will become active on February 1 and member schools will have until Feb. 28 to meet the requirement. Gathering this information before the link is sent on February 1 should allow you to quickly complete the report in an expedited fashion. Assistant Commissioner Sarah Bridenbaugh (sbridenbaugh@khsaa.org) will be the contact for sending out the request for submissions and should be able […]
1/25/21 – First Phase (T-35 Report) Open for Title IX Reporting Entry for 2020-2021 and Student Survey Administration
The initial phase of entry for the 2020-2021 Title IX Reports, the ability to enter the financial information from 2019-20 to be entered on the 2020-2021 form T-35, is available and online at schools.khsaa.org. There have been only minimal changes based on the great cooperation and feedback from the membership.
T35 EMPHASIS POINTS
There has been a continual effort to eliminate inconsistent information that has been entered on that form, and the following points are emphasized:
- Entry for the T35 is now open. Login to https://schools.khsaa.org and begin entry when you are ready.
- The T35 requires you to enter 2019-2020 expense information, as it has been audited within your school and district.
- Your previous Annual Reports can be quickly reviewed in the KHSAA School Subdomain (the login page) by clicking on the tab labeled Past Title IX Annual Reports, in case you want to review past submissions.
- The T35 is to be entered with all […]
12/17/20 – New NFHS Learning Center Course – “The Student Experience” – Relays Participation Benefits to Students
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has announced “The Student Experience” – a free student-centered course focused on the long-term benefits of education-based activities participation – as a new addition to the NFHS Learning Center.
“The last few years, we have had a lot of success delivering coursework and resources directly to students through the NFHS Learning Center to help them get the most out of their interscholastic experience,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services. “By taking ‘The Student Experience,’ we want them to understand why participating in high school activities programs is so important to their future.”
In the past year, the NFHS Learning Center has released several resources within “The Parent Seat,” a collection of courses and videos that promote the true purpose of education-based athletics and performing arts to parents of participants. “The Student Experience” is the first course offering that conveys a […]
12/15/20 – Visual, Technical Revisions Offer Improved User Experience to NFHS Learning Center’s ‘Sudden Cardiac Arrest’ Course
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Revisions recently introduced to “Sudden Cardiac Arrest” aligns one of the NFHS Learning Center’s most significant courses with recent updates to its other offerings.
Currently available to take free of charge, the revised “Sudden Cardiac Arrest” course has been reviewed by both NFHS course partner, Simon’s Heart, and by the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC). As part of the revisions, the course received both branding and technology updates that had already been implemented to other NFHS Learning Center coursework.
“We are pleased to continue our successful partnership with Simon’s Heart to bring revised Sudden Cardiac Arrest content to the interscholastic community,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services. “The course revisions centered around upgrading the look and feel of the course, as well as technology upgrades to improve the user experience.”
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is the number one cause of death in the United States for student-athletes during […]
12/2/20- Reminder about Great Offer from Partner Midway University
Exclusive KHSAA Tuition Discount
As a member of the KHSAA network of coaches and administrators, Midway University is proud to offer a 15% tuition reduction of all online undergraduate programs and graduate programs* to all employees, coaches, athletic directors, and officials and their dependents.
Midway University is one of the first in Kentucky to offer online programs to make achieving a bachelors or master’s degree possible for working adults. And since Midway University has held its tuition rates, and even lowered them for some programs, they are one of the most affordable choices. With the KHSAA extra 15% discount, that makes an incredible value.
To find out more, click the link at https://bit.ly/3mwvcpC.
Or to get started, email admissions@midway.edu, schedule a virtual admissions meeting or apply online.
11/20/20- Winter Indoor Sports Delayed, Information for Member Schools
With the Governor’s School Closing Order of this past Wednesday (details of which can be seen here) along with the Board of Control decision to delay the start of the indoor winter sports seasons to January 4 (details of which can be seen here), changes are going to need to be made over the next few weeks. The text of the orders is contained at the following links- https://bit.ly/36QG23f and https://bit.ly/3nz1ArU. As our office did not know the details of the final order until it was announced late Wednesday, we spent Thursday reconciling the details of the Board’s necessary action on the start of winter sports competition with the recent orders in order to best provide guidance to our membership. This conversation is ongoing with our office, the Governor and Lt. Governor’s office and the Kentucky Department of Education to ensure consistent messaging as well as our nearly daily consultation with […]
11/15/20- Exclusive KHSAA Tuition Discount
As a member of the KHSAA network of coaches and administrators, Midway University is proud to offer a 15% tuition reduction of all online undergraduate programs and graduate programs* to all employees, coaches, athletic directors, and officials and their dependents.
Midway University is one of the first in Kentucky to offer online programs to make achieving a bachelors or master’s degree possible for working adults. And since Midway University has held its tuition rates, and even lowered them for some programs, they are one of the most affordable choices. With the KHSAA extra 15% discount, that makes an incredible value.
To find out more, click the link at https://bit.ly/3mwvcpC.
Or to get started, email admissions@midway.edu, schedule a virtual admissions meeting or apply online.
11/11/20 – Esports Online Rules Clinic For Coaches Now Available
The esports online rules clinic is now available at khsaa.org and required of all member school head and assistant coaches (varsity, junior varsity and freshmen), regardless of whether or not the coach receives pay. With the esports rules clinic being offered for the first time this year, the clinic will be available for free during the fall season but is a mandatory requirement of all coaches and should be completed before the fall postseason begins on December 11.
A revised clinic will be offered for the spring season which will also be required but will have the standard fee, late and super-late periods for completion.
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link that says “View Online Rules Clinics“.
COACHES
- November 10 to December 11 (Coaches) – […]
10/27/20 – NFHS Learning Center Releases New Content for Parents, Offers NFHS National Parent Credential
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has announced additional parent-centered content on the NFHS Learning Center, along with the NFHS National Parent Credential certification for those who complete the designated course offerings.
“We are pleased to be able to offer more tools and resources for parents to utilize with their students,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services. “The NFHS National Parent Credential provides a new professional development pathway for parents.”
Supporting the NFHS Learning Center’s continued efforts to correct negative parent behavior at events, the curriculum for the National Parent Credential is comprised of two free courses – “The Parent Seat” and “Positive Parenting Within School Programs.” Parents who achieve the National Parent Credential receive a certificate and a badge to be displayed on their Learning Center dashboard.
A promotional video for the NFHS National Parent Credential can be viewed here: https://nfhslearn.com/library/videos/nfhs-national-parent-credential.
The all-new “The Parent […]
10/20/20- Adopted Revisions to Football Alignment for 2021 and 2022, Removal of Scheduling Embargo
At its most recent meeting, the KHSAA Board of Control approved the mid-alignment adjustments to the football alignment for 2021 and 2022. With the school enrollments that were received for 2019-20 (the pre-Covid second-month reports were utilized as specified by the Competition Rules), there were minimal changes to the alignment. There were no geographic moves proposed or approved with the mid-alignment review.
In Class 1A, District 7, Sayre was placed for the 2021 and 2022 seasons and will be a fully scheduled member.
In Class 2A, District 5, Trimble County is returning to the alignment following two-seasons of non-district status.
In Class 3A, District 5, Jackson County will withdraw from the district for 2021 and 2022.
There were no other changes to the alignment. The complete alignment appears on the KHSAA website at https://bit.ly/3jmgYpa
With this action, the embargo on game contracts for 2021 and 2022 has been removed. To ensure that all schools […]
2021 and 2022 Approved Alignment of Teams – Football
CURRENT ALIGNMENT OF TEAMS – FOOTBALL – 2019 THROUGH 2022 PLAYING SEASONS
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association shall sponsor postseason competition in football provided that there is sufficient interest of the membership to participate in the said competition. Member schools desiring to participate in KHSAA sponsored postseason competition shall notify the Association office before September 1. The Commissioner shall divide the state into geographic sections within six (6) enrollment-based classes with the approval of the Board of Control. In the interim, newly added or deleted programs will be handled on a case by case basis by the Commissioner’s office.
For the postseason competition, in Class 6A, For playoff bracketing only, the 5th place team in District 1 would become the 4th place team in District 5
For the postseason competition, in Class 1A, Sayre will be the 4th seed in District 7 for 2020 only.
For interim alignment review for 2021 and 2022 seasons, […]
10/16/20- COVID Basketball Information and Update
As we prepare for the start of official practice on October 26, reminders are in order for all involved. This was previously distributed to all schools earlier this month, but all representatives would be advised to be sure you are familiar. The guidance document is posted on the KHSAA website at https://bit.ly/3ib7pc5.
We have received a few inquiries recently regarding the start of basketball practice and the guidelines that have been issued. Keep in mind that the season is divided into segments for a purpose, and that gives natural opportunities for consideration of revisions based on what is happening with the pandemic.
Here are a few reminders based on the questions that have come into the office. This material is and was contained in the guidance document. It is imperative that coaches be familiar with the entire contents of the guidance document and realize that as everything with this pandemic, things […]
10/15/20 – KHSAA Cross Country State Meet Details & Location
As we approach the Cross Country postseason, the KHSAA wanted to update the membership regarding postseason meets for the sport of Cross Country.
STATE MEET SITE
The 2020 KHSAA State Cross Country Meet will be held at the Bourbon County Cross Country Course at 1054 Millersburg Rd in Paris, Ky. on October 30-31. Maps of the course will be available on the Cross Country website. The time schedule for 2020 will be posted with Class 2A to compete on Friday afternoon, October 30. Class 1A and 3A will compete on Saturday, October 31.
“We appreciate the great work of our longtime prior hosts at the Kentucky Horse Park and recognize their need for continual adjustments during the pandemic,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “We have a longstanding relationship with the park and their absolutely wonderful staff. But with their current focus on equestrian events combined with our need to finalize arrangements in a timely manner, […]
10/12/20- Postseason Soccer, Volleyball, Field Hockey Situations and Questions
As we head into the postseason, we know our managers and member schools are working extremely hard to protect opportunities for students during this strange time while at the same time, juggling near-daily changing data to help make current decisions. We have had several questions that have emerged about teams advancing in light of specific quarantine and isolation issues.
Remember that the guidance we are operating under from the Department for Health specifies that a quarantine period (exposure to a person who tests positive) is for fourteen (14) days and an isolation period (for a person with a positive test) is for at least ten (10) days following the test. It has long been anticipated that an ill-timed quarantine or isolation period might end a season if schools cannot find additional scheduling options.
As an association, we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate the competing school with rescheduling any contest provided that such rescheduled dates do […]
10/07/20- Football Updates and Scheduling Information including Tiebreaker for Games Not Played
This is being sent to all member schools through the Principal, Athletic Director, and the Football Coach of record, with a courtesy copy to member school Superintendents. Please forward as necessary. This notice is related solely to 2020 Football. Other notices and posts relative to Field Hockey, Soccer, and Volleyball have been distributed.
As we have said all along, all of us involved in any way with education have been advised to be nimble to any changes to past plans during this pandemic. Certainly, a higher amount of football games have been lost during this already short fall season than anyone ever predicted or planned and those cancelations continue. As such, several situations have arisen as schools try to determine the rescheduling of future games, and additional minor adjustments are needed. These latest changes and clarifications are solely intended to help resolve issues and prevent further wholesale rescheduling late in the year if that is […]
10/02/20 – NFHS Learning Center Adds New Officiating Courses for Soccer, Track and Field
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In support of its commitment to high school officials’ education, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has announced two new free courses have been published to the online NFHS Learning Center – “Officiating Soccer: Pre-Game Conference for Officials” and “Officiating Track and Field.”
Designed as a complement to two other soccer officiating courses on the Learning Center, “Officiating Soccer: Pre-Game Conference for Officials” focuses on teaching referees the proper protocols to be carried out ahead of each contest. Key aspects include the importance of advance communication between officials, field inspections, and discussing relevant game-time topics and recent rule changes. Effectively executing the pre-game conference allows each referee to work cohesively with his or her team and be as informed and observant as possible during play.
“The pre-game conference for officials in the game of soccer serves to familiarize the contest officials with the host of responsibilities they have to […]
10/01/20- Celebrating Return to Play During National High School Activities Month (Op-Ed Column)
By Karissa Niehoff, Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations and Julian Tackett, Commissioner of the Kentucky High School Athletic Association.
The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly caused everyone to hit the pause button on life. During the stoppage and forced time away from routines, and even as some activities have resumed, many people have come to more deeply appreciate the important things in life – family, friends, and faith among others.
Still, the loss of certain routines and regular activities seem to hurt worse than others, namely last spring when high school sports and performing arts were shut down. Millions of students, coaches, parents, and fans quickly began to realize and more deeply appreciate the privilege of involvement in these education-based programs in schools.
Now, slowly but surely, high school sports and performing arts are on their […]
10/1/20-2020 Basketball Rules Clinic Available Online for Officials and Coaches
The mandatory Online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport of Basketball is now available. The clinic is required of all officials as well as all coaches, varsity, junior varsity and freshman, and whether or not the coach receives pay.
Because of the nature of current events as well as rules changes, coaches you are likely placing your team at a competitive disadvantage if you delay/put off/procrastinate the completion of this clinic. Officials, your failure to stay on top of these key provisions will likely lead to administrative errors.
Please ensure that you have read the COVID guidelines posted on the KHSAA website. Many restrictions on scheduling, out of state travel, and rules modifications are detailed in that document. See the various links at /covid-19-fall-resumption-documents-8-25-20-revised-8-31-20/
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section […]
09/24/20 – NFHS, NFL Announce Partnership to Promote High School Football
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the National Football League (NFL) have announced a first-ever partnership aimed at promoting the growth, understanding and support for football at the high school level.
As a part of the partnership funded by the NFL, the NFHS will work to develop and execute a strategic plan with the primary objective of promoting high school football.
A major focus of the NFHS-NFL partnership will involve surveying of state high school association administrators, high school student-athletes, parents, coaches and officials with regard to their experiences in football and the benefits of participation. The NFHS will be working with UpMetrics on various survey instruments as a part of the arrangement.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for the NFHS and the NFL to work together to help ensure the long-term viability of high school football,” said Dr. Karissa Niehoff, NFHS executive director. “We are appreciative of […]
09/23/20 – Archery and Bass Fishing Participation Update
Following last week’s Board of Control meeting, we continue to receive inquiries regarding the sport-activities of Archery and Bass Fishing. Though both have an initial published practice date of October 1, they are classified as spring sport-activities by the Association.
It remains RECOMMENDED that the activities on campus be focused on the current season sports (fall at this point) and not on sports for other seasons (winter and spring sports) so as to lessen virus exposure and allow for a carefully measured return to in-person learning where and when local districts have made that decision.
For both Archery and Bass Fishing, practice and workouts are at the discretion of each member school.
For KHSAA sport-activities, catastrophic insurance coverage only applies to the postseason (regional and state championships). Participation in all other competitions is at the discretion of each member school without the benefit of catastrophic insurance provided by the Association.
For Archery:
- […]
09/18/20- Urgent Reminder on COVID Cancellations in Football, Soccer and Volleyball
REVISED 10/1/20–
Just a quick reminder on the score and schedule entry for COVID related cancellations IN ALL SPORTS on the KHSAA Scoreboard (Field Hockey, Football, Soccer, and Volleyball for the fall, 2020 seasons). As with a lot of things related to this pandemic, the specific experiences of our member schools are resulting in a constant procedural review and revision as we move forward.
- Because of the impact on RPI and standings, we have removed the ability to update of delete games.
- You will report that you have a COVID cancellation by submitting the form on the KHSAA website at the link CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT A DELETION OR REVISION TO THE SCOREBOARD.
- From the point your form is sent, policies that were previously adopted in July will take effect.
- The score will be permanently recorded as a 0-0 tie with a notation that it is a COVID cancelation.
- The RPI […]
09/17/20- RPI Impact on Cancelled Contests/Open Dates
UPDATED: 10/1/20
As reviewed at the July Board of Control meeting, the following procedure will apply to canceled games during the COVID-19 pandemic with respect to the calculation of RPI. These provisions are subject to revision during the pandemic.
- The Board previously reviewed an adjustment (for 2020-21 only) to standings as well as RPI calculation methods due to possible cancelation of games resulting from the pandemic and local impact.
- For Field Hockey, Football, Soccer, and Volleyball-
- In all contests, games canceled due to the pandemic including mandatory quarantines and isolation shall not have a result recorded other than a 0-0 score, and no forfeit fee provisions will be applied.
- Games canceled for other reasons remain subject to Bylaw 22.
- In all seeded games, games canceled due to the pandemic or mandatory quarantines, the formerly announced provision of counting a contest unable to be played or rescheduled will NOT be implemented. That method of […]
09/16/20- Board of Control Approves Dates for Winter Sports to Begin Practice
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 16, 2020
The KHSAA Board of Control held its second regularly-scheduled meeting of the 2020-21 academic year Wednesday morning, approving practice and competition dates for the winter sports and sport-activities of basketball, bowling, competitive cheer, dance, swimming & diving, and wrestling.
Bowling is permitted to practice on November 2. Competitive cheer and dance can begin official practice for its seasons this Monday, September 21 with a gradual segmented approach to activity over the next few weeks. Further details will be distributed to the member schools that allow for the resumption. Both competitive cheer and dance have already seen regional championships moved into the new year per the board’s July meeting. In cheer, these segments will further clarify “stunting” which has been restricted during the pandemic and resumption to play.
Additionally, the Board approved clarifications on sideline cheer in that stunting (defined per NFHS rules as “One or more bases support one […]
09/11/20- COVID-19 RELATED PSA/PUBLIC ADDRESS ANNOUCEMENTS
The following scripts for announcements can be used without attribution by local public address announcers, member schools and broadcasters. Many are sourced from the CDC in Atlanta as part of their efforts related to the global pandemic. Feel free to use at your discretion. Additional announcements and audio versions for use in broadcasts may be found on the CDC website at https://bit.ly/35gWHfn
READ #1
FANS, THE KENTUCKY HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION AND (INSERT YOUR SCHOOL), ALONG WITH THE KENTUCKY DEPARTMENT FOR PUBLIC HEALTH, THANK YOU FOR YOUR PROACTIVE EFFORTS TO HELP PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19.
AS A REMINDER FOR TODAY’S/TONIGHT’S EVENT, ALL IN ATTENDANCE ARE REQUIRED TO:
• WEAR A MASK OVER YOUR NOSE AND MOUTH AT ALL TIMES, AND.
• PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING WITH THOSE WHO DO NOT RESIDE IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD, AND
• COUGH OR SNEEZE INTO A TISSUE OR YOUR ARM, AND WASH YOUR HANDS THOROUGHLY.
THANK YOU FOR […]
09/10/20- CPR of Indiana again offers KHSAA Members Discounted AED program
The KHSAA is proud to again partner Bill Callahan and the CPR Institute of Indiana to offer the chance for KHSAA member schools to purchase Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at a deeply discounted price for a limited time. The program has been accepted by the KHSAA Sports Medicine Committee (member doctors of the KMA) and the price is the product of great work between CPR Institute and the NFHS Foundation.
A product flier with complete details is located on the KHSAA website at https://khsaa.org/sportsmedicine/NFHS AED Package Special (CPR Institute of Indiana Updated Sept-2020.pdf. Those units are currently selling on Amazon.com for just under $1300 not including a nearly $100 carrying case.
An order form is located on the KHSAA website at https://khsaa.org/sportsmedicine/NFHS Order Form Updated.xlsx .
Through this offer from CPR of Indiana, the cost of the units is only $700 […]
08/31/20- Clarifications Around Board of Control Approved Waiver of Bylaw 9
REVISED 9/16/20 PER BOARD ACTION REGARDING BASKETBALL PRACTICE STARTING
As most school representatives are aware of information already distributed by this office following the meeting, the Board of Control approved a waiver of certain parts of Bylaw 9 for this fall. Normally, Bylaw 9 would normally preclude a student who had played basketball at any level (freshman, JV, or varsity) after enrolling in grade nine from participating in an outside organized contest in basketball from the first day of school until the end of the high school basketball season.
Due to the pandemic, students lost the ability to attend potential recruiting events during the summer with events either not being held or with college coaches not being able to attend. Bylaw 9 previously made exceptions for both boys and girls’ basketball team members to attend one-day events on an NCAA campus with specific restrictions.
For the 2020-21 school year, the restrictions have been […]
08/29/20- Clarifications, Corrections and Revisions of to Healthy at Sports Stage 3-Fall Sports Return to Competition
For those who have printed copies of the draft and want to preserve that copy with any changes that have been made.
“ALL SPORTS GUIDANCE”
“ALL SPORTS GUIDANCE”
In “INTRODUCTION” Change “collaboration” to “consultation” in fifth paragraph
“ALL SPORTS GUIDANCE”
Revise bullet 6 under “SCREENING OF ALL…” to include “F” after 100.4
“ALL SPORTS GUIDANCE”
Add bullet 10 under “SCREENING OF ALL…” to say “The name and contact information should be recorded at each practice (REQUIRED)”
“ALL SPORTS GUIDANCE”
Revise bullet 11 under “SCREENING OF ALL…” to say “The name and contact information should be recorded where feasible and practical at all competitions (RECOMMENDED).”
“ALL SPORTS GUIDANCE”
Revise first bullet under “GENERAL AREAS…” to say “to review” after health department and add “-21” to the end of “2020”
“ALL SPORTS GUIDANCE”
Revise third bullet under (PRE-WORKOUT SCREENING…” to say “greater than” and add “F” after 100.4
“ALL SPORTS GUIDANCE”
Change first bullet under “IN AND […]
08/27/20 – Field Hockey Return to Play Guidance
Draft guidance for a return to play was published on the KHSAA website yesterday under the COVID-19 Information tab and shared with school administrators. Keep in mind that this guidance is draft as the situation remains fluid as it has been since March and the information is subject to revision.
Coaches should review rules modifications and protocols to assist in preparation for competition and should be flexible throughout this entire process and realize the goal is a safe and healthy return to play for everyone.
Field Hockey specific guidance
https://khsaa.org/resources/Covid19/CovidResumptionFallSports/fieldhockeycombined.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions – All sports
https://bit.ly/2YDUbNQ
Contact Assistant Commissioner Michael Barren for any Field Hockey specific questions at mbarren@khsaa.org
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the Commonwealth. The […]
08/27/20 – Soccer Return To Play Guidance
Draft guidance for a return to play was published on the KHSAA website yesterday under the COVID-19 Information tab and shared with school administrators. Keep in mind that this guidance is only a draft as the situation remains fluid as it has been since March and the information is subject to revision.
Coaches should review rules modifications and protocols to assist in preparation for competition and should be flexible throughout this entire process and realize the goal is a safe and healthy return to play for everyone.
Soccer specific guidance
https://khsaa.org/resources/Covid19/CovidResumptionFallSports/soccercombined.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions – All sports
https://bit.ly/2YDUbNQ
Contact Primary Sport Contact Chad Collins for any soccer specific questions at ccollins@khsaa.org
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the Commonwealth. […]
08/27/20 – Football Return To Play Guidance
Draft guidance for a return to play has been published on the KHSAA website under the COVID-19 Information tab and shared with school administrators. Keep in mind that this guidance is draft as the situation remains fluid as it has been since March and the information is subject to revision.
Coaches and officials should review playing rules modifications and protocols to assist in preparation for competition and should be flexible throughout this entire process and realize the goal is a safe and healthy return to play for everyone. Keep in mind, just because practice has started, doesn’t mean we relax our emphasis on pandemic health and safety.
And remember that what the kids and all involved with the team AFTER practice and activities will likely have a huge impact on the ability to finish a season. Keep telling all around you, we hope 2021-22 looks more like 2018-19. But 2020-21 will likely look like nothing […]
08/27/20 – Cross Country Return to Play Guidance
Draft guidance for a return to play was published on the KHSAA website yesterday under the COVID-19 Information tab and shared with school administrators. Keep in mind that this guidance is a draft and the situation remains fluid, as it has been since March and is subject to revision.
Coaches should review rules modifications and protocols to assist with safety, health, and social distancing and should be flexible throughout this entire process and realize the goal is a safe and healthy return to play for everyone.
Cross Country specific guidance: https://khsaa.org/resources/Covid19/CovidResumptionFallSports/crosscountrycombined.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions – All Sports: https://bit.ly/2YDUbNQ
Any Cross Country specific questions shall be sent to Assistant Commissioner Sarah Bridenbaugh (sbridenbaugh@khsaa.org).
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the […]
08/27/20 – Volleyball Return To Play Guidance
Draft guidance for a return to play was published on the KHSAA website yesterday under the COVID-19 Information tab and shared with school administrators. Keep in mind that this guidance is draft as the situation remains fluid as it has been since March and the information is subject to revision.
Coaches should review rules modifications and protocols to assist in preparation for competition and should be flexible throughout this entire process and realize the goal is a safe and healthy return to play for everyone.
Volleyball specific guidance
https://khsaa.org/resources/Covid19/CovidResumptionFallSports/volleyballcombined.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions – All sports
https://bit.ly/2YDUbNQ
Contact Associate Commissioner Butch Cope for any volleyball specific questions at bcope@khsaa.org.
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the Commonwealth. The Association […]
08/27/20 – Volleyball & Field Hockey Scheduling Clarification Contests Per Week
The KHSAA office has received several inquiries on the Healthy at Sports guidance approved by the KHSAA Board with regard to the maximum contests per week in the sports of Volleyball and Field Hockey and tournament participation.
Volleyball – The limit of matches for the season (not including postseason) is 24 with no more than four (4) matches in a given week. (Sunday to Saturday)
Field Hockey – The limit of matches for the season (not including postseason) is 16 with no more than four (4) matches in a given week. (Sunday to Saturday)
If a school, due to participation in a regular-season multiple-game event (i.e. tournament) exceeds the limit of matches in a given week, such shall not be considered a violation of Bylaw 23 provided the preceding or succeeding week(s) are adjusted to create an appropriate average number of contests of four (4) per week.
(Example: School A plays one (1) contest on […]
08/25/20- Covid-19 Resumption Documents (8/20, Revised 8/20, 9/20, 10/20, 11/20, 12/20, 2/21, 3/21)
Complete Guidance for Fall Sports, Documents by Sport and Section, Healthy at Sports
Stage 3-Performance, Return to Practice and Competition: Fall Sports, 8/24 and beyond
Fall Sports
Winter Sports and Sport-Activities
Spring Sports and Sport-Activities
08/25/20- Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Resumption of Sport and Sport-Activities (Updated 10/13)
UPDATED 10/13/20
Are there Limitations on Competitors in Various Sports?
Yes. In an effort to help ensure appropriate social distancing, the following restrictions and adaptations were approved for the fall sports, in most cases matching existing postseason restrictions. This will be an aid as game guidance is developed to help ensure that the bench areas contain fewer players, and more social distancing is implemented. There will likely be limitations on non-uniformed competitors in the final game guidance once approved.
-
- The limitation for field hockey, soccer, and volleyball is established at the region and state limitations. Field hockey and soccer may have 24 players in uniform and participating in warm-ups and competition while volleyball will be permitted 15 players in uniform and participating in warm-ups and competition.
- Cross Country will be permitted a team entry not to exceed 10 runners, the current postseason roster limitation. Additional runners, as have […]
08/21/20- Restart of the Opportunity to Practice and Play Sports
This is being sent to all KHSAA member schools through the Principal and Athletic Director. It is also as a courtesy, copied to Superintendents. Good afternoon. As most of you are aware, the KHSAA Board of Control voted yesterday to stay on course with allowing practice for fall sports to begin in the member schools beginning on August 24 followed by fall sports contests (other than Golf) being allowed on September 7 (September 11 for football). The vote was 16-2 to continue to accept Option 1 as the allowances for fall sports. To see the breakdown of that option, see the link at https://bit.ly/31haSAh. As of today, there is no prevailing order governing practice for these sports of which we are aware. The current Commonwealth Youth Sports Order only impacts teams below middle school per guidance received in writing by the KHSAA staff on May 14 […]08/20/20- Board of Control Upholds Decision to Begin Fall Sports September 7
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 20, 2020
The Board of Control held a virtual Zoom meeting Thursday morning, affirming its July position by a 16-2 vote to begin practice for fall sports on August 24th with competition starting the week of September 7th. The Board considered two other motions during the meeting, both of which would have delayed the start of the fall seasons to varying degrees, but neither motion received enough support for adoption.
The fall sports of Field Hockey, Soccer, Volleyball, Cross Country, and Football can begin official practice August 24, with a restriction of 7.5 hours of practice during the first week (as previously approved by the Board) and full practice starting Monday, August 31.
“We hope to submit practice revisions early Friday following the Board’s approval, which will hopefully be relatively minimal. If approved to expand numbers and activity, it will hopefully bring a more normal look to some practices while still […]
8/18/20 – Soccer Online Rules Clinic for Coaches and Officials Now Available
As coaches and officials begin to prepare for hopefully the beginning of the season, the mandatory Online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport of Soccer was available beginning yesterday, August 17. The clinic is required of all officials as well as all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshman) whether or not the coach receives pay.
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link that says “View Online Rules Clinics“.
For officials, login to the officials’ subdomain at https://officials.khsaa.org/
OFFICIALS
August 17 to September 14 (Officials) – the Soccer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
September 15 to October 3 (Officials) – the Soccer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($30) during this […]
08/18/20-2020 Football Rules Clinic Available Online for Officials and Coaches
The mandatory Online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport of Football is now available. The clinic is required of all officials as well as all coaches, varsity, junior varsity and freshman, and whether or not the coach receives pay.
Because of the nature of current events as well as rules changes, coaches you are likely placing your team at a competitive disadvantage if you delay/put off/procrastinate the completion of this clinic. Officials, your failure to stay on top of these key provisions will likely lead to administrative errors.
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link that says “View Online Rules Clinics“.
For officials, login to the officials’ subdomain at https://officials.khsaa.org/
Below is additional information:
OFFICIALS
August 17 to October 5 (Officials) – the Football Clinic will […]
08/04/20- The Planned Return of Interscholastic Athletics Challenges Us All
As the start of the school year approaches, there has been a lot of focus on whether students should go back to school and if interscholastic athletics should return. Some think we should just stay inside our homes for months at a time. Others seemingly refuse to acknowledge that the virus exists.
These topics have been discussed repeatedly and one thing seems clear: There is no one-size-fits-all answer that will satisfy (in no particular order) school administrators, teachers, coaches, parents, and students.
As the state athletics and activities associations that oversee high school athletics in eight states, however, we know the importance of getting our student-athletes back on the courts and playing fields as soon as it is safe to do so. We must safely exhaust every effort and alternative possible to prevent a repeat of the sacrifices made by spring 2020 participants and those in some 2020 State Basketball events.
It has been well […]
08/03/20- Middle School Interscholastic Athletics Reminders and Interim Guidance for 2020-21
This document is as of August 3, 2020, and in effect until further altered, revised, or superseded. Senior high school administrators in receipt of this notice should ensure that this information is forwarded to those involved in middle school athletics as direct contact is difficult from this office. Certainly, every district administrator should be concerned about these provisions from a risk and liability standpoint as they have the force of law within state regulation. We would ask that recipients widely distribute this information.
Recently, the KHSAA Board of Control addressed high school fall sports with regard to the current COVID-19 pandemic (dates, restrictions, competition limits, etc). The KHSAA Board of Control has control over those levels, however, the jurisdiction for middle school interscholastic athletics is assigned to the KHSAA through its Commissioner through 702 KAR 7:065 Section 4.
The Commissioner, therefore, issues the following directives that apply to middle school athletics, which are in congruence […]
07/31/20- Bylaw and Policy Revisions/Waivers Due to Covid-19
THIS POST IS OBSOLETE AS OF THE CONCLUSION OF THE 2020-21 SCHOOL YEAR AND IS MAINTAINED ONLY FOR HISTORICAL PURPOSES
The following Bylaw and policy considerations and revisions were reviewed by the Commissioner and approved by the Board of Control during the current pandemic emergency.
- Bylaw 3 – Maximum Number of Years
- There will be no waiver of the maximum number of semesters or additional eligibility for those students whose seasons are canceled due to Covid-19 and subsequent actions. For details and review, see the link at Click Here for Complete Details
- Bylaw 4 – Eligibility to participate by being enrolled.
- State regulations (not just KHSAA rules) set a minimum participation standard. In short, a student who is considered full-time enrolled (as verified through Infinite Campus or comparable system for those that do not use Infinite Campus) is eligible to represent a member school.
- A district may always place […]
08/03/20- Questions and Answers Regarding NFHS Network Pixellot Program
This document represents questions received from KHSAA member schools and districts since the start of the Pixellot donation program. This program was first announced in a post and email from the KHSAA on July 14, 2020. That post is archived at https://khsaa.org/07-14-20-pixellot-offer-webcasting-webinar/
As more are received and answered, this document will be expanded. Answers were provided by the staff at PlayOn Sports (the NFHS Network partner distributing the cameras).
1. Does this contract have any impact on radio rights to our games?
It could have a tremendous positive impact as you can add an audio mixture to the computer that comes with the system and add play by play commentating. Nothing in the contract prohibits or limits radio broadcasting in any way.
2. The contract allows for local TV to broadcast a game at our discretion. Can they live stream it as well, as long as we still stream on NFHS?
07/31/20- Update for Member Schools Regarding Fall Sports and Current Activity
THIS POST IS OBSOLETE AS OF THE CONCLUSION OF THE 2020-21 SCHOOL YEAR AND IS MAINTAINED ONLY FOR HISTORICAL PURPOSES
Greetings to all related constituents and constituent groups. While Joe Angolia from our office previously distributed a summary of this week’s Board actions to the membership and the public, I thought it a good idea to get additional information out to you. In the process this week, we have also received several inquiries and we can try to ensure those are answered as well. Everyone reading this though has to be mindful that things could change at a moment’s notice, and all information should be considered as of July 29. I apologize in advance for the length of this communication.
Schools should keep in mind the Board is currently composed of 8 Superintendents, 1 Principal, 1 AD/Coach, a Guidance Counselor, 3 Other District administrators, in addition to 2 Superintendents and 1 Principal on the Board […]
08/03/20 – ACT Releases Additional Test Dates for 2020-21
Recently, the ACT released information about adding additional testing dates for the 2020-21 school year. As you plan for the upcoming year, it is important to note these dates. Administrators, coaches, student-athletes, and parents should record these additional dates in order to avoid possible conflict. The KHSAA cannot possibly avoid conflicts with all of these dates (including postseason dates). It is recommended that all involved plan accordingly to mitigate any conflicts for the student-athlete in a postseason event. Below is a list of the dates (as provided by the ACT) and deadlines for registration.
Test Date
Registration Deadline
September 12, 2020
September 13, 2020 (Sunday)
September 19, 2020
August 14
October 10, 2020
October 17, 2020
October 24, 2020
October 25, 2020 (Sunday)
September 17
December 12, 2020
07/21/20 – ‘First Aid, Health and Safety’ Revisions Provide Updated Content for Learning Center Core Course
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 21, 2020) — Revisions to “First Aid, Health and Safety” – one of two core courses in the NFHS Learning Center – have been completed to provide relevant, up-to-date content to the 10-unit course. The other core course is “Fundamentals of Coaching.”
From its inception, “First Aid, Health and Safety” was designed by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the American Red Cross to offer coaches and administrators an overview of first aid. Included in that overview are best practices for the numerous situations in which medical attention may be required.
“The NFHS and the American Red Cross have partnered together on a first aid course since the NFHS Learning Center platform launched in 2007,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services. “In that time, nearly 300,000 first aid courses have been accessed via the NFHS Learning Center. Over the past year, the NFHS and […]
07/14/20- Pixellot Offer-Webcasting/Webinar
As you may have heard last week, the NFHS Network announced the “High School Support Program” that will enable its member schools that currently lack webcast production capabilities to stream athletic contests. We are excited to not only ensure that you are aware of this great program but to encourage you to dig deep and decide if it benefits your school. In these trying times when upcoming contests could face attendance restrictions, a streaming option is certainly worth considering. Especially one that will potentially yield income to your athletic program instead of benefitting an outside entity. Details about an informational webinar for this program are at the end of this email.Basically, this program allows each school to receive up to two free Pixellot automated production units for use in their primary sports venues. These units were previously priced at more than $4,000 per unit, so this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for your school.
[…]
07/14/20 – NFHS-AMSSM Guidance for Assessing Cardiac Issues in High School Student-Athletes with COVID-19 Infection
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — An expert medical task force appointed by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) has issued guidance for assessing potential cardiac issues in high school student-athletes with COVID-19 infection.
The guidance is included in the “Cardiopulmonary Considerations for High School Student-Athletes During the COVID-19 Pandemic: NFHS-AMSSM Guidance Statement” published in Sports Health (https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1941738120941490), an online journal of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM).
“COVID-19 has raised many concerns regarding the health and safety of athletes,” said Jonathan Drezner, M.D., director of the University of Washington Medicine Center for Sports Cardiology, past president of the AMSSM and co-chair of the NFHS-AMSSM task force. “The risk of heart and lung involvement is likely related to the severity of the illness. This guidance statement addresses important cardiac considerations and the suggested evaluation of high school student-athletes with past or new COVID-19.”
[…]07/13/20- NFHS Network Pixellot Offer/Program/Webinar
Dear Superintendents, Principals, and Athletic Directors,
As you may have heard last week, the NFHS Network announced the “High School Support Program” that will enable its member schools that currently lack webcast production capabilities to stream athletic contests. We are excited to not only ensure that you are aware of this great program but to encourage you to dig deep and decide if it benefits your school. In these trying times when upcoming contests could face attendance restrictions, a streaming option is certainly worth considering. Especially one that will potentially yield income to your athletic program instead of benefitting an outside entity. Details about an informational webinar for this program are at the end of this email.
Basically, this program allows each school to receive up to two free Pixellot automated production units for use in their primary sports venues. These units were previously priced at more than $4,000 per unit, so this […]
07/07/20 – NFHS Network Offers Schools Two Free Production Units to Stream Events Through “High School Support Program”
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 7, 2020) — As high schools nationwide continue to deal with the fallout from COVID-19 and make plans for the restarting of activities this fall, the NFHS Network – the leader in streaming live and on-demand high school sports – has announced an unprecedented offer for schools that are facing possible attendance restrictions at events during the 2020-21 school year.
Through its High School Support Program, the NFHS Network is offering up to two free Pixellot automated-production units for schools that lack production capabilities to stream events on the NFHS Network.
The offer of two Pixellot units – one for indoor events and the other for outdoor contests – has been extended to all 19,500 high schools in the 51 NFHS member state associations. The NFHS Network is a joint venture of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), its member state associations and PlayOn! Sports.
In addition to receiving […]
07/06/20 – ‘COVID-19 for Coaches and Administrators’ Course Now Available from NFHS Learning Center
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 6, 2020) — In an effort to address the challenges of returning to high school athletics and activities amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Learning Center has collaborated with the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) to develop a new free online course “COVID-19 for Coaches and Administrators.”
The course includes information from the “Guidance for Opening Up High School Athletics and Activities” document that was released by the NFHS in May for its 51 member state high school associations to consider in restarting high school athletics and other activity programs across the nation.
Additionally, the new Learning Center course offers vital information on COVID-19 for coaches and school administrators on conducting workouts, practices and contests as safely as possible, according to Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services.
“While we know states – and communities within states – are in different […]
07/06/20 – High School Field Hockey Eyewear Rule Altered for 2020 Season
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In response to longstanding concerns regarding the wearing of goggles in high school field hockey, the NFHS Board of Directors approved a change in the eyewear rule that will take effect with the upcoming 2020 season.
Rule 1-6-5 in the NFHS Field Hockey Rules Book, which currently states that “All field players shall wear eye protection that met the ASTM standard for field hockey (2713) at the time of manufacture,” will now state that “Goggles may be worn by all field hockey players.”
In addition to the current rule, an additional note was due to take effect in 2020 as follows: “Beginning in the 2020 fall season, all eye protection shall be permanently labeled with the ASTM 2713 standard for field hockey at the time of manufacture.”
Since goggles were mandated by the NFHS Board of Directors in 2011 with the intent to lessen the risk of catastrophic eye injuries, there have […]
06/25/20 – NFHS Learning Center’s ‘The Collapsed Athlete’ Explains Development, Implementation of EAPs
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (June 25, 2020) — “The Collapsed Athlete,” a free online course centered around developing and practicing Emergency Actions Plans (EAP), is the most recently launched course from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Learning Center.
“The Collapsed Athlete” dives into more than just the importance of EAPs and assigning vital responsibilities to team members. The course also explores how the three H’s – heart, heat and head – factor into potentially fatal injuries and illnesses.
High school students incur serious, life-threatening medical emergencies on a yearly basis while participating in athletics and activities. While the causes of those situations are many and varied, they may be a result of pre-diagnosed medical conditions. Others, however, may be a consequence of the activity, environmental conditions or an unrecognized medical condition.
Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services, considers “The Collapsed Athlete” to be one of the “most critically important courses” to […]
06/18/20 – NFHS to Halt Printing of Spring Sports Rules Publications; 2020 Rules to be Used in 2021 Season
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Due to the cancellation of spring sports at high schools across the country, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) will not be publishing new rules (both print and digital) for 2021 in the sports of baseball, softball, track and field, girls lacrosse and boys lacrosse.
Because very few schools were able to compete in these sports prior to the March shutdown of schools due to the COVID-19 pandemic, competition in these sports in 2021 will be conducted under 2020 NFHS rules for baseball, softball, track and field, girls lacrosse and boys lacrosse.
“Since most schools were not able to practice or play a game in these sports, we thought it was best to carry the 2020 rules publications forward to next year,” said Dr. Karissa Niehoff, NFHS executive director. “Our rules committees in these sports will conduct virtual meetings this summer but will not be approving any additional rules […]
06/12/20 – NFHS National Student Leadership Summit Going Virtual for 2020
KHSAA member schools are once again invited to select student-athletes to participate at no cost in the National Federation of High School Associations’ National Student Leadership Summit.
This is a great opportunity for students from all backgrounds and levels of participation from all over Kentucky and the rest of the nation and Canada to come together for expanded leadership training that they can then share and execute back within their local school and community.
The NFHS hopes to reach thousands of high school students from across the nation July 20-22 with its first virtual National Student Leadership Summit (NSLS). The deadline to register is July 3.
This year’s summit marks the 13th national conference for high school student leaders sponsored by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) since the inaugural event in 2001. The NFHS planned to host the NSLS in Indianapolis this summer; however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the summit […]
06/10/20 – NFHS Learning Center Unveils School Honor Roll Program
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has created the NFHS School Honor Roll, a national recognition program designed to promote professional development for high school coaches through the completion of specific courses through the NFHS Learning Center at www.NFHSLearn.com.
“Education-based programs provide ongoing learning for participating students, and the NFHS School Honor Roll program provides a pathway for coaches within schools to be honored for their involvement in professional development,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS Director of Educational Services.
After filling out an online application, schools can achieve three levels of merit within the NFHS School Honor Roll, which are obtained once 90 percent of a school’s coaches – excluding volunteer coaches – complete various course combinations. Participating institutions that earn Level 1, 2 or 3 distinctions receive a large display banner commemorating their accomplishments and their dedication to professional development and education-based athletics.
Three free offerings from the […]
06/05/20 – NFHS to Host First Virtual National Student Leadership Summit
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (June 4, 2020) — The NFHS hopes to reach thousands of high school students from across the nation July 20-22 with its first virtual National Student Leadership Summit (NSLS).
This year’s summit marks the 13th national conference for high school student leaders sponsored by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) since the inaugural event in 2001. The NFHS planned to host the NSLS in Indianapolis this summer; however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the summit will be broadcast in a virtual setting on the NFHS Network, which annually streams more than 100,000 high school events online at www.NFHSNetwork.com.
“The NFHS is excited and thrilled to be able to offer leadership training in a virtual setting for our students who participate in athletics and performing arts,” said Elliot Hopkins, NFHS director of sports, sanctioning and student services and coordinator of the National Student Leadership Summit. “This is obviously an unusual […]
05/12/20 – Financial Aid Report Postponed until Fall
Annually, in compliance with Bylaw 11, a Financial Aid Report is required to be submitted by all KHSAA member schools. The submissions for the 2019-20 school year will not be required until later this summer as school resumes. With the current global pandemic, many schools still have too many unknown situations regarding the end of the school year and the required data likely would not be accurate or comprehensive. Therefore, this survey will be revised by the KHSAA Staff and sent to the Designated Representative in the Fall of 2020 to report on the 2019-20 year.
-KHSAA-
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the Commonwealth. The Association is a voluntary nonprofit 501(c)3 organization made up of 280 member schools both public and non-public. […]
05/11/20 – Game Forfeiture Process Clarified in 2020-21 High School Basketball Rules Changes
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (May 11, 2020) — Beginning next year, high school basketball rules will further clarify when a contest is to be forfeited, including if a qualified individual is not present to coach.
A proposal for a national rule mandating a shot clock as well as a proposal to allow a shot clock by state adoption were not approved.
“Information was given to the Basketball Rules Committee that shared the votes in individual states on how coaches and officials voted in support of or non-support of the shot clock rule,” said Theresia Wynns, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the Basketball Rules Committee. “The conversation among the committee members explored the pros and cons of enacting the proposal as a rule for all states and likewise for state adoption. The committee will continue to explore the shot clock issue.”
These were among the topics discussed by the National Federation of State High School Associations […]
04/30/20- Covid-19 End-of-Year Resources and Guidance
04/30/20- Recommended Guidance issued by the Kentucky Department of Education on end-of-year procedures.
Several schools have requested information on best practices for return of school-issued sports equipment, uniforms, and other important material from student-athletes. In establishing a means of getting materials back, KHSAA member schools are bound and shall be guided by this document issued by KDE in any area related to interscholastic sports or sport-activities.
Click here to see the Revised Guidance for End-of-Year Procedures.
04/30/20- Recommended Guidance issued by the Kentucky Department of Education COVID-19 Emergency Guidelines for Graduation Ceremonies and Related Year-End Activities
Many schools have contacted the Association about best and permitted practices for holding ring ceremonies, awards opportunities, and other means to honor participation. In holding such ceremonies, KHSAA member schools are bound and shall be guided by, the procedures detailed from KDE for graduation ceremony opportunities in any area related to interscholastic sports or sport-activities.
04/30/20- Reminder about 2019-2020 Title IX and Participation List Submission, Deadline Extended to May 31
This should present a summary for each school to complete the required Participation Report as well as the Title IX report for 2019-20.
- The deadline has been extended to May 31, 2020.
- The online system is currently available for entry.
- If you have specific questions about Title IX and the law itself, our office should be able to help get you some assistance. Asst. Commissioner Darren Bilberry (dbilberry@khsaa.org) is our primary contact for your questions related to the law and its interpretations.
- Information Technology Director Rob Catron (rcatron@khsaa.org) can assist you with electronic issues including login and report preparation using the online system.
- Our field audit staff is NOT available at this time as we have temporarily suspended the work of all part-time employees for the current period. You will be advised then those individuals are back in the office and available.
Exceptions and Procedures Only for 2019-20
Obviously, Covid-19 has altered […]
04/29/20- Revised Covid-19 Policies and Guidance Issued, May 1 to May 31
THESE REVISIONS ARE IN PLACE FOR THE PERIOD OF MAY 1 to MAY 31.
THESE POLICIES WILL BE REVIEWED REGULARLY FOR EXTENSION AFTER THAT PERIOD OR REVISION DURING THAT PERIOD AS NECESSARY AS STATE, FEDERAL AND CDC POLICIES AND DIRECTIVES CHANGE
RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF THE CAMPUS OF ANY KHSAA MEMBER SCHOOL OR ON PROPERTY OWNED BY THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF ANY MEMBER SCHOOL, OR ITEMS RELATED TO SPORT OR SPORT-ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION DURING THIS PERIOD-
04/28/20 – 2020-21 High School Wrestling Rules Changes Address Weigh-In Procedures, Hair-Length Restrictions
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 28, 2020) — As the result of a concerted effort to accommodate the growing number of female wrestlers, the 2020-21 high school wrestling rules changes are headlined by significant adjustments to weigh-in protocol and appropriate hair-length requirements.
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Wrestling Rules Committee met April 5-6 and recommended 11 rules changes to take effect next school year. In accordance with current health safety guidelines, the rules meeting was held in an online format. All rules revisions recommended by the Wrestling Rules Committee were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“These rule changes are some of the most prolific modifications in the history of high school wrestling,” said Elliot Hopkins, NFHS director of sports and student services and liaison to the Wrestling Rules Committee. “The rules committee made necessary, drastic changes to attract more young people to our sport without sacrificing the health and safety of […]
04/14/20 – High School Swimming/Diving Rules Changes Clarify Proper Race Finish, Official Timing Procedures
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 14, 2020) — Providing more clarity on a proper race finish and official timing procedures are among the noteworthy high school swimming and diving rules changes for the 2020-21 school year.
These topics were among those discussed by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Swimming and Diving Rules Committee at its annual meeting March 22-23, where a total of six rules changes were recommended for approval. The rules meeting was held in an online format to comply with current health safety guidelines. All recommendations were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
Rule 1-1-1 was edited to profile the end wall in more detail. Previously described as “the walls perpendicular to the race course,” the new definition broadens the term to include “the vertical portion of the pool, contiguous surface of the deck and overflow gutter, the front of the starting block or platform, or the touchpad at […]
04/06/20 – Esports Nominations Sought for Male and Female Midway Student-Athlete of the Year
While spring sports and sport-activities are currently suspended, Midway University is continuing with its recognition of the outstanding talents of student-athletes who participate in these programs. The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year among esports participants for 2019-2020 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2019-2020 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but may be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/.
The winner will be announced May 17 and will be recognized at a future function in coordination by Midway University. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2019-2020 Midway University/KHSAA Overall Student-Athlete of the Year and announced […]
04/06/20 – Bass Fishing Nominations Sought for Male and Female Midway Student-Athlete of the Year
While spring sports and sport-activities are currently suspended, Midway University is continuing with its recognition of the outstanding talents of student-athletes who participate in these programs. The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year among bass fishing participants for 2019-2020 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2019-2020 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but may be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/.
The winner will be announced May 17 and will be recognized at a future function in coordination by Midway University. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2019-2020 Midway University/KHSAA Overall Student-Athlete of the Year and […]
03/26/20 – Risk Minimization Remains Theme of 2020-21 High School Spirit Rules Changes
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (March 26, 2020) — High school spirit rules changes for the 2020-21 school year remain centered on increasing safety for cheerleading and dance teams across the country.
This year, minimizing injury risk for stunting personnel and during inversions and releases were among the 16 rules changes recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Spirit Rules Committee, which met February 10-11 in Orlando, Florida. All changes recommended by the committee were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“The committee has been working for years to make spirit activities safer for our student participants, while maintaining a high level of competition and crowd leading,” said James Weaver, NFHS director of performing arts and sports. “This will continue to be a primary focus of the Spirit Rules Committee.”
Stunting personnel safety was addressed in Rule 3-2-1c, a new addition to the NFHS Spirit Rules Book. The rule states that bases may […]
03/30/20- Status of KHSAA Sponsored Events and Deadlines
Updated: 3/31/20, 8:00 a.m.
This information is solely a summary of KHSAA events. Other specific information concerning options including the required Coronavirus Shutdown Period is listed elsewhere on the KHSAA website at https://khsaa.org/athletic-dead-period-instituted-for-athletic-programs-in-all-sports-and-sport-activities/. This list will be continually updated and potentially revised.
- Tryout Period for Sport-Activities, including Cheer and Dance has been postponed. See the post at https://khsaa.org/03-19-20-spring-sport-activity-tryout-window-postponed-for-now/ for details.
- All opportunities at KHSAA member schools and Kentucky middle schools for spring football practice have been eliminated for 2020. See the post at https://khsaa.org/spring-football-practice-eliminated-for-2020-for-high-and-middle-schools/ for details;
- No final determination has been made regarding annual Title IX and roster reporting for 2019-20. Member schools will be updated if and when this is revised.
- 2020 Mingua Beef Jerky/KHSAA Girls’ Sweet Sixteen (originally March 11-15) remains currently suspended. Will be continually reviewed as more data is available regarding school resumption or cessation, and activities being conducted in alignment with CDC and state and local […]
03/25/20 – Officiating Courses Available for Free Through July 1 on the NFHS Learning Center
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (March 25, 2020) — Current high school sports officials, as well as individuals interested in joining the officiating ranks, will be able to access online education courses on the NFHS Learning Center for free through July 1.
Since many individuals are at home for an indefinite period of time due to the current worldwide health crisis, the NFHS has decided to make its 11 sports officiating courses available for free on the Learning Center at www.NFHSLearn.com.
“Everyone is looking for positive things to do at home during this difficult period of time, so we thought it would be a good opportunity for officials to take courses on the Learning Center to brush up on their skills,” said Dr. Karissa Niehoff, NFHS executive director. “As a means of encouraging more people to take advantage of this time at home, the NFHS is offering officiating courses for free until July 1.
“In addition to […]
03/19/20- Spring Sport-Activity Tryout Window Postponed
The KHSAA was made aware of communication sent to member schools from Varsity Spirit (specifically Universal Cheer Association and Universal Dance Association) about “virtual tryouts”. This notification was not approved by the KHSAA and as a reminder, the Athletic Dead Period that has been instituted for all sports and sport-activities in Kentucky because of the Covid-19 virus would preclude this type of tryout. No matter where held, this would then implicitly or explicitly imply mandatory participation by students and evaluation by coaches.
As previously stated, “all sports and sport-activities, regardless of season, are declared to be in a dead period.” In consultation with the Governor, Public Health Officials and the Kentucky Department of Education, an evaluation will be made for the period going forward.” No tryouts or “virtual tryouts” may take place until further notice.
The information related to the Covid-19 (coronavirus) is ever-evolving, and changes happen quickly. We will inform all stakeholders if there […]
03/18/20- Refund Options, 2020 Girls’ and Boys’ State Basketball Tournaments
Today (March 18) should have been a day of celebration. Newly crowned Mingua Beef Jerky/KHSAA girls’ state tournament champions and other participants should have been celebrating in their local communities. Downtown Lexington and the entire state should have been abuzz as the Whitaker Bank/KHSAA Boys’ State Basketball Tournament played its first round. But such was not to be the case. Events totally beyond the control of everyone involved led to the determination that it would not be safe to conduct the remainder of the Mingua Beef Jerky girls’ event or conduct any of the Whitaker Bank boys’ event.
We know that many of you are as disappointed as we are. You had planned for months on the annual celebration of basketball in our Commonwealth. And while the cancelation (Ticketmaster term becessary to permit refunds) represents nothing less than a financial disaster for the Association, finances certainly could not be the determinant in our action steps. […]
03/16/20- Update on KHSAA Office Opening/Closing and Staff Availability
In partnership with our State Department of Education, the Governor’s office, our member schools, the NFHS and similar to many other state associations, KHSAA staff has been directed to work remotely from home until at least April 10 (revised 4/2/20). Administrators will available via email. Our hope is to return to the office for regular hours later in April, however, this is a very fluid situation and could change at any time. Updates will be posted online.
As of now and through at least May 1, all activity by rostered participants, coaches and those who have participated in at least one practice session for a middle or high school remain shut down as do all athletic facilities in control of our membership. As we all work together, everyone is hopeful to contain the spread of this virus. Staff will communicate any changes to future events through social media and the KHSAA website.
Closer to May […]
02/17/20 – Dropped Ball Procedure Amended in High School Soccer
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (February 14, 2020) – Beginning next season, changes to the conditions and procedure for restarting play with a dropped ball will take effect in high school soccer.
The dropped ball procedure was among 15 rules changes made by the NFHS Soccer Rules Committee at its January 20-22 meeting in Indianapolis and subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
When a ball is caused to go out of bounds due to a simultaneous touch, Rules 9-2-2 and 9-2-3 now stipulate a referee will restart play with a dropped ball to one player of the team that last possessed the ball before going out of play. Previously, simultaneous touch resulted in any number of players contesting a dropped ball to restart play.
Additionally, if play is stopped with the ball in the penalty area or the last touch – by either team – was in the penalty area, the ball is dropped to the […]
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