May 26, 2021
Dear Club and League Representatives:
Pursuant to the most recent MDHHS Gatherings and Face Mask Order, the weekly testing requirement (SARS-CoV-2) of unvaccinated athletes (ages 13-19) is still required for participation in organized sports, including youth (club) soccer. The Order, effective June 1, 2021, has been extended through July 1, 2021. Thus, unvaccinated participants (ages 13-19) can only participate in organized sports with proof of a negative diagnostic test (antigen or RT-PCR) on at least a weekly basis. Fully vaccinated persons are not subject to these weekly testing requirements, unless they have COVID-19-like symptoms. ‘Fully vaccinated persons’ means persons for whom at least two weeks has passed after receiving the final dose of an FDA-approved or authorized COVID-19 vaccine. In addition, participants who have recovered from confirmed COVID-19 in the past three months (and who remain symptom-free) are also not subject to the weekly testing requirements, if they can provide the appropriate ‘proof’ or doctor’s letter as described in the MDHHS Interim Guidance for Athletics.
For participants with a confirmed case of COVID-19, or possible exposure to COVID-19, the local health department (LHD) is likely to initiate contact tracing for individuals who may have been in close contact with a positive case. Quarantine periods for close contacts are determined by, and at the discretion of, the local health department (LHD).
Facial coverings continue to be required for all non-vaccinated individuals/participants when indoors. Also, per MDHHS, as of June 1, 2021, there will no longer be capacity limits outdoors and beginning July 1, 2021, all broad epidemic orders will be lifted by MDHHS.
Sincerely,
Thomas Faro
Executive Director
cc.: MSYSA Board of Directors
