Des Moines Public Schools is committed to carefully resuming some activities AND protecting the health and well-being of our students, staff and families throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
On May 27, DMPS announced that its high schools could participate in the 2020 summer season. All baseball and softball teams at DMPS will be expected to strictly abide by the guidelines released earlier this month by the Iowa Department of Education and the Iowa Department of Public Health, as well as some additional safety measures.
Coaches and activities directors will be responsible for making sure all aspects of the health guidelines are being followed. Teams that do not abide by the health guidelines will have their seasons ended.
Please know that these requirements are being done in the best interest of our players, coaches, families and fans. This is an unusual time, requiring unusual measures, but so long as we all cooperate in looking out for each other’s well-being we will be able to safely allow students to participate in some activities.
FAQ FOR COACHES AND PLAYERS
When will the season begin?
The Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) have determined based on the state’s recommendation that baseball and softball could begin practices June 1 and competitions on June 15.
When will the schedules be completed and released?
Varsity schedules for both baseball and softball will be available on Monday, June 1 at www.cimlcentral.org. Lower level schedules for both baseball and softball will be available by Wednesday, June 3.
What is the protocol for a student-athlete who failed a first semester grade and his/her eligibility?
Based on Governor Reynolds’ proclamation on May 6, all students are academically eligible to participate in competition. All other current rules regarding eligibility are maintained.
What is the protocol for baseball and softball student-athletes that have had their pre-participation physical expire during this time?
All softball and baseball players would be granted a waiver for participation in softball and baseball after the Governor’s emergency declaration has expired. This waiver would make them eligible to participate through July 25.
What precautions are being taken to assure the safety of the coaches and players?
Each coach and player will be required to complete a series of questions before they can participate for both practices and competitions. How those questions are answered will determine how each individual moves forward. In addition, each school will provide sanitation stations, as well as face coverings for all students and coaches. Students will be required to wear face coverings when they are not in-play, and coaches when they are not coaching/instructing. Strict guidelines have also been put in place to assure certain equipment is being disinfected before and after practices and games. There is also a facility sanitation plan that will be implemented to keep our restrooms, bleachers and dugouts clean.
How will transportation be handled?
Transportation will be made available, although strict guidelines following the recommendations of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Iowa Department of Education will be followed. These requirements may include steps such as maintaining physical distancing and wearing face masks while on school buses.
What happens if a player or coach is either experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or has been diagnosed with COVID-19?
Des Moines Public Schools will follow the recommendations as outlined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Iowa Department of Public Health, and the Polk County Health Department. This will include being sent home when certain health conditions are present. Click here for more information.
GUIDELINES FOR SPECTATORS AT GAMES
Spectators at baseball and softball games held at DMPS facilities should expect the following:
- Masks are required of all spectators
- Concession stands are closed
- Bleacher seating will be limited or closed; please bring your own chair or stand
- Physical distancing should be practiced by spectators
Spectators should not attend if:
- You are waiting for the results of a COVID-19 test
- You have been in contact in the past 14 days with a person with a COVID-19 diagnosis
- You have a fever or feel sick (such as a cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body or head aches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and/or diarrhea)
- You have a sick family member at home
