GHSA moving forward with September 4 start date for high school football

Earlier today, Georgia High School Association Executive Director — Dr. Robin Hines — released information to member schools following his weekly meeting with the Sports Medicine Advisory Council.

The GHSA release:

After today's meeting with the SMAC, the GHSA is providing this information to our member schools to provide an idea of the possibilities that exist for GHSA sports/activities.

— Our plan as of today is to move forward with the September 4 date for opening football season, as directed by the Board of Trustees.

— However, it is possible that the start date of September 4 could change based on COVID-19 data.

— As numbers dictate over the next two weeks, a decision will be forthcoming with regard to the football start date.

— The GHSA staff has contingency plans to cover all start and restart scenarios.

— Our goal continues to be to provide sports and activities for our students as soon as possible with safety being the top priority.

— There is always a possibility of postponement based on the data and advice from our medical professionals.

Recommendations and restrictions are fluid and subject to change.  Safety must be our top priority.

Thanks for all you and your staff do for the student/athletes in the State of Georgia.

Robin Hines