PITTSBURGH — Officials with the PIAA and WPIAL are fighting new rules requiring athletes wear a mask during competition both indoors and outside. The rules were announced as part of a list of changes officials hope will slow the spread of COVID-19.
According to our partners at TribLive.com, WPIAL and PIAA officials are asking schools to remain patient while they get clarification of the rule or an exemption.
“Right now, the guidance is clear that they have to wear it during competition,” WPIAL Executive Director Amy Scheuneman told TribLive.com.
She said the PIAA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee has recommended against athletes wearing a mask during games due to safety reasons.
This coming weekend are state championship games in several fall sports, featuring athletes that haven’t been required to cover their face during competition all season.
“We are requesting further clarification and possible exemption for our competing athletes,” PIAA Associate Executive Director Melissa Mertz told TribLive.com
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PIAA officials were planning to meet Wednesday afternoon to discuss the rule. The PIHL expected to finalize its policy at a meeting Wednesday night.
Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said in July that athletes were not required to wear masks during competition at the time.
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