Volume 2, Issue 33 | May 1, 2020
The Latest on COVID-19 & Sports
As the calendar turns to May, many states begin the measured process of "re-opening." While government officials are working to articulate rules regarding businesses, services and entertainment, the affect on sports remains less clear. Doctors, scientists and leaders in both government and sport continue to work on guidelines that may provide a timeline for youth sports to resume in communities across the country, as well as parameters for safety and participation. As the article above suggests, some guidelines for youth sports may mirror those put in place by much larger amateur or professional organizations, including safety precautions related to training and competition. Dr. Fauci weighed-in on the topic once again this week as well, noting that while he hopes to see sports back sooner rather than later, some sports may still have to sit out the year . " That will be true for at least one major summer event, as the Little League World Series was canceled on Thursday for the first time in the organization's history.

On a related note, experts in a recent panel discussion put on by the Aspen Institute's Project Play initiative warned that when we do come back, the return to sports will need to be gradual in order to assure safety and reduce the risk of injury. Meanwhile, parents in a recent Soccer.com poll expressed optimism that a return to play is coming for that sport, with more than 90% expecting leagues to resume by September .

Of course, financial concerns are one of the reasons many are eager to get kids back on the field. Project Play provided an update on attempts by more than 400 youth sports organizations to seek federal relief, wondering how likely congress is to support such a bailout . At the local level, some advocates for resuming sports in the near future say that it could provide an economic jolt that's just what cities across the country need.

While nearly everyone wonders when sports will return, a number of leaders are taking the opportunity to "re-imagine" what youth sports can be in a post-COVID world. That's the focus of several comments by Dr. Clark Power in this week's Play Like a Champion Show (subscribe on your favorite podcasting app!) as well as a thoughtful column by John O'Sullivan of the Changing the Game Project. The Rally invites you to consider the thoughts of these individuals and let us know what you hope the future of sports looks like for children. How can your school or organization work to provide opportunities for all children to participate and experience the joy that sports can provide? How can sports become a more balanced pursuit for our families? Let us know your thoughts by reaching out to us on social media or via email at information@playlikeachampion.org . We'll continue to look at this topic in future notes.
Each week we'll highlight some of the best articles and media for coaches, administrators and sports parents below, both those related to COVID-19 and some features that allow us to break away from the news for a moment.
NCAA Focuses on Mental Health
Reporter Andy Katz was joined by the NCAA's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Brian Hainline, Dr. Claudia Reardon & former athlete Caroline Lee to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of student-athletes and provide tips for weathering the crisis. This is a critical topic right now for athletes as well as the parents and coaches who work with them.
With Leagues Dormant, Coaches Fight to Keep Kid Active, Fed
For many coaches, the shut-down of youth sports has done nothing to slow down their spring. Well aware that many children are now missing their only outlet to exercise, mentorship and even a good meal, these coaches are doing everything they can to keep in touch and provide ways for kids to maintain healthy lifestyles. While we're all lamenting the loss of sports, the actions of these coaches should provide reason to feel good.
NCAA Clears the Way for Student-Athlete Endorsements
In a move that will have far-reaching implications for both college athletes and high school recruits, the NCAA's Board of Governors this week approved legislation that will allow student-athletes to make money from third-party endorsements. Once ratified by the NCAA, the new rule is expected to be in place for 2021.
Why Play Sports if You're Not Any Good at It?
Friend of The Rally Anne Stricherz asks this important question in her latest blog post. Noting a recent article and a conversation with a friend, the always insightful Stricherz ponders the question as an athlete, coach and teacher herself. It's worth taking the time to read her thoughts and consider this yourself.
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The Quotable Athlete
"Never let your head hang down. Never give up and sit down and grieve. Find another way."

~ Satchel Paige


Leroy Robert "Satchel" Paige was an American Negro Leagues and Major League Baseball pitcher between 1926-1953. Unable to join the Major Leagues until he was 42 due to discrimination, he is widely known as one of the best pitchers of era and many believe, the history of the game.
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