As the Louisiana Stay-At-Home order is lifted Friday, a big question in sports is where does high school football fit?
In phase one, gyms and fitness clubs are allowed to re-open, but only at 25 percent capacity. Solo and non-contact sports are also allowed during this time.
Football teams usually begin lifting weights and on the field workouts at school during the spring. But when would that start? LHSAA Executive Director Eddie Bonine says that is at the school's discretion.
"The LHSAA has very limited authority when it comes to the summer," Bonine said. "Under (rule) 4.0, it specifically states that anything that goes on during the summer, whether it be facilities, use of equipment, apparatus or anything at all. That's decisions made by the principals, their staff and ultimately the superintendent."
Bonine has made it clear that the plan is for full practices to begin on time in early August. Games are also expected to begin in September, even if it doesn't include fans.
"The coaches we have in this state are very knowledgeable and passionate," Bonine said. "And if it means they have the opportunity to compete, they will adapt and get it done."
"We did it in basketball, for state championships. We hated to do so. But the kids and coaches thanked us for allowing them to play, where some state postponed and canceled and didn't play."
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