The endless summer has come to a halt as Monroe schools begin letting students back into the classroom and as Marathon High School is eager to announce that all sports will be in session this fall officially beginning on Sept. 8.
FHSAA made the first official announcement on July 27 to push back the start of athletics to Aug. 24. Shortly after, the FHSAA took a board vote and got an 11-5 count in favor of resuming athletics. They then left the decision to each individual county to decide whether they would be ready and if it would be safe enough for students to return. Many schools resumed practicing on Aug. 24; however, the Keys elected to begin later. Most of the county school districts in Florida have made the decision to continue practicing with the exception of Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties due to continued high levels of community spread of COVID-19.
The following is a rundown of each sports’ plan:
• Varsity football: Sept. 8, first official practice. Contact coach Mac Childress for further information.
• Varsity/JV volleyball: Tryouts were on Sept. 8-9. Contact coach Kevin Freeman for further information.
• Cross country: Sept. 8, first official practice. Contact coach Jim Murphy for further information.
• Golf: Sept. 8, first official practice. Contact coach Tyler Wright for further information.
• Cheerleading: Sept. 8, first official practice. Contact coach Heather Allen for further information, and tryout requirements.
• Middle School volleyball: Sept. 15, official starting date. There will be a shortened schedule this season, with only one team limited to 10 players.
• Middle School football season has been canceled this year due to travel restrictions and lack of opponents.
School athletics officials have said they will allow players to try out after Sept. 8. Students are advised to contact coaches right away, even if they have missed tryouts or practices have already begun. Students who will be continuing with virtual education this semester are still welcome to participate in the after-school athletics. For further questions, contact Marathon High Schools athletic director Lance Martin.
