On July 21^st, the UIL released information regarding the upcoming athletic seasons and how we will progress in this ever changing time of COVID-19.  We now have some useful information that we are using to plan and prepare our staff and our athletes for the athletic seasons that begin in the fall.  This is still a fluid situation that adjusts and moves with each passing day.  We will still have some areas that will require more guidance and information before we can move forward in making decisions, but I can assure you that all of our decisions and preparations have the best interests of the students and staff of Florence ISD at the forefront.

The athletic program has been able to operate our summer workouts for all our incoming 7-12 athletes throughout the summer.  I have been very pleased with the numbers we have had and how hard they have worked during these summer months.  We had very specific safety and distancing measures in place that were different than what we are normally used to, but our athletes and our staff did outstanding work at adjusting and adhering to these guidelines.  Now that we have guidance for the fall sports, I want to outline some points that will give information as to what the Florence Athletic Department will be doing within the newest UIL guidelines.

• All athletes must complete a UIL Medical History Form.  If an athlete has never received a UIL physical they must receive one.  Any athletes who answer YES on questions 1-6 of the Medical History Form must be evaluated by a doctor which may include a physical.  Athletes who answer NO on questions 1-6 of the Medical History Form are not required to receive a physical this year.  Updated and valid physicals are required before any practice or participation takes place.
• Our fall sports of Cross Country, Football, & Volleyball will take place on schedule with original start times.  High School Cross Country, Football, & Volleyball practices will begin on Monday, August 3^rd.
• Football will only have one scrimmage vs. Yorktown on Friday, August 21^st at a time and place to be determined.
• Volleyball & Basketball will not have any tournaments this year, but are allowed to replace those tournaments with a preset number of games.
• All athletes and all staff will be asked COVID screening questions daily upon arrival to all facilities.
• All athletes and all staff should self-screen daily for COVID-19 symptoms.  If someone does not feel well they should stay home.
• All clothing, equipment, and facilities will be cleaned by staff on a daily basis.
• Hand sanitizer will be available at all workouts and in all facilities
• Masks/face coverings must be worn by athletes and staff when in locker rooms and offices.

We realize there still may be some questions regarding the upcoming season.  As always, this is a fluid situation that could change at any time, and there are still some areas where we as a district are still formulating our plans and procedures.  We thank everyone for their continued support and patience, and we look forward to a great year for the Buffaloes & Lady Buffaloes.

Drew Bridges

Athletic Director/Head Football Coach