March 22, 2021
Dear Club and League Representatives:
Pursuant to the recent MDHHS Emergency Order under MCL 333.2253, beginning April 2, 2021, weekly testing (SARS-CoV-2), is required for all athletes ages 13 to 19 for participation in contact sports, including youth (club) soccer.
Younger athletes are not subject to the MDHHS testing requirement in Michigan. Despite the new testing requirement for athletes 13 to 19 in Michigan, the consistent and appropriate use of facial coverings is still required of all participants before, during and after MSYSA affiliated activities.
The MDHHS Emergency Order does not currently require team officials and/or referees to secure weekly testing. In addition, teams traveling to Michigan from other states (e.g., IL, IN, OH, WI, etc.) are not subject to the MDHHS Emergency Order with respect to testing. All out of state team players and team officials, however, must wear facial coverings in Michigan before, during and immediately following these activities.
MSYSA is working with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to secure additional information and details on their ‘MI Safer Sports Testing Program’. Please read and review, along with the MDHHS Interim Guidance on Athletics. At this time, MSYSA does not have information on the potential costs associated with weekly testing. The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA), for example, was provided tests from MDHHS for free.
The current MDHHS Emergency Order remains in effect through April 19, 2021, which is approximately two (2) weeks following most ‘spring break’ periods of time. MSYSA anticipates MDHHS reviewing their testing order if/when there is sufficient decline in the state average positivity on COVID-19 diagnostic tests at that time.
We will share more information when it becomes available.
Sincerely,
Thomas Faro
Executive Director
cc.: MSYSA Board of Directors
