Effective Friday, March 13, 2020, Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association is suspending all affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities statewide through May 18th due to the evolving COVID-19 situation. For our member organizations (towns, clubs and leagues) this includes, but is not limited to: all games, practices, clinics, training, tournaments, in-person meetings and Coaching Education Courses.
Trusting that players, coaches, referees and spectators would never knowingly compromise themselves or others, the fact is that our sport and its related activities provide an opportunity for the virus to spread which we feel is our duty to help avoid (excerpt from the CDC below):
“...COVID-19 is mainly spread through respiratory droplets (sneeze, cough, or sweat) when in close contact (within 6 feet) OR by touching a surface with such droplets and then touching one’s own mouth, nose or eyes...”
As a result, both US Soccer and US Youth Soccer have made a similar decision regarding soccer activities under their purview. They asked the state associations to assess the risks and benefits of postponement, suspension and/or cancellation of upcoming events and Mass Youth Soccer - along with many other state associations - has taken this guidance with the highest level of concern. Our decision to suspend soccer related activities and promote social distancing was made in accordance with guidance we received from public health and medical professionals at the federal, state and local levels. We don’t take these types of decisions lightly. But, in the interest of making the health and safety of the entire soccer community, in addition to all others statewide, paramount, we know this is the right step to take.
Mass Youth Soccer will evaluate conditions on a continuing basis to determine when it is appropriate to reinstate our affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities. Further communications will be provided via email and on our website.
US Soccer has suspended all Coaching Education Courses until after April 30th. Currently scheduled courses will be rescheduled promptly after the suspension of activities is lifted. Currently registered coaches will be credited with prior payment for use towards a future US Soccer Coach Education course.
Additionally, here are a number of different resources and communications from the CDC and other organizations regarding the Coronavirus:
CDC - Coronavirus Overview
CDC - Frequently Asked Questions
WHO - Advice for Coronavirus
U.S. Department of State - Country Specific Travel Information
USOPC - Coronavirus Update
We cannot emphasize enough that Mass Youth Soccer’s primary commitment at all times is the health and safety of all members, players, coaches, referees, parents, spectators and volunteers.
Proper Health Habits
In the meantime, while we all help protect ourselves is it important to reinforce health safety and best practices for illness prevention, please read the list below:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth prior to proper washing or disinfecting.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Follow the CDC's recommendations for using a face mask.
- CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including Coronavirus.
- CDC recommended face masks should be used by people who show symptoms to help prevent the spread of the disease.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.