Rodd's Ramblings: Winter sports are done; next season is in limbo

Normally, March and April mean the spring sports seasons are here and high schools are buzzing with activity. All that activity came to a screeching halt the past week when schools were closed after spring sports were put on indefinite hold due to the COVID-19 virus.

Activity and athletic directors across the state are in the same state as the schools — limbo — until further notice.

“I am sure there is some disappointment by the kids, coaches and parents, but hopefully we will still be able to have some of the season,” said an optimistic Paul Riess, Cloquet activities director, explaining that the Minnesota State High School League has prohibited practice through March 27, with no scrimmages, games, or related events until April 6.

Obviously, everything could change.

The MSHSL reacted to the virus situation by shutting down the girls state basketball tournament as it was in play and also shut down the boys sectional tournaments. While it is little consolation, at least those students got to experience most of their season and — in some cases — an entire season. Athletes in spring sports may not even get on a field, a track, a court or a golf course.

“The kids are devastated at the thought of not having one last time with friends and the chance to compete for team and individual goals,” said South Ridge activity director Tony DeLeon. “It’s sad to think of all the coaches and student athletes that have put their time and heart into their chosen sports, but may not be able to compete in them this spring.”

“We’ve experienced a wave of emotions but everyone understands the seriousness of these unprecedented times and the subsequent concern for everyone’s well-being is our foremost concern,” said Esko athletic director Chad Stoskopf. “Obviously, this has been very difficult for the kids to understand.”

Perhaps the most difficult thing for people to deal with is not knowing if, or when, COVID-19 will run its course and when things return to somewhat normal.

“Seniors are frustrated as well but, again, this is new to everyone and everyone is doing their best to deal with the daily changes,” said Wrenshall activities director Jeremy Zywicki. “As far as scheduling things, if and when the ban is lifted, we will cross that bridge when we get there.”

“I have some pretty sad kids,” said Moose Lake High School athletic director Rebecca Jackson. “Not only are they potentially facing losing their senior season, but they are facing losing their prom, daily time with people they care about, and even their graduation ceremony.”

The reality of the situation continues to have ripple effects throughout our communities, and the high schools are no exception.

“Honestly, I think we’re still in limbo and shock about this and we haven’t really come to grips with the reality of this situation,” Jackson said. “I haven’t really dealt with many upset kids or parents yet. As it stretches out, I’m sure it will happen. ... We’re trying to normalize things in a very abnormal situation.”

“There is a bigger picture here and we all have a responsibility to mitigate the spread of the [virus],” said Esko’s Stoskopf. “We need to protect those most vulnerable and not doing our part would be selfish.”

This isn’t about sports, the prom or even graduation. This is about preserving life.