HHSAA indefinitely suspends all prep sports, practices


ScoringLive staff
March 13, 2020, 1:13pm

The HHSAA announced Monday, March 16 that all practices are also suspended.

The HHSAA announced in a press release Friday afternoon the indefinite suspension of all interscholastic competition due to the evolving COVID-19 public health threat. The suspension is effective Monday, March 16.

The announcement was made in conjunction with all five of the HHSAA's member leagues.

"The priority of the HHSAA continues to be the health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, administrators and members of the community," HHSAA Executive Director Chris Chun said. "We hope that play can resume before the school year ends, but must be mindful not to jeopardize the health of our community in doing so. This decision was not made lightly and is supported unanimously by our member leagues."

A determination on the possible resumption of play would be made with the HHSAA, Hawaii State Department of Health and the Lt. Governor's office. The HHSAA said it would continue to evaluate the situation and make a later determination regarding its spring state tournaments scheduled for May.

UPDATE (March 16, 3:11 p.m.): All leagues will not allow its teams to practice during the pause in the spring season due to the COVID-19 situation, Chun confirmed on Monday. When the initial announcement to indefinitely suspend prep sports came down on Friday, teams were allowed to continue to conduct practices. However, as social distancing guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) tightened over the weekend, which led to the change in policy to include practices, which will all be on hold until further notice.

Chun added that the leagues have committed to meet weekly to reassess the situation.

UPDATE (March 24): Gov. David Ige has issued a statewide "stay-at-home" order beginning Wednesday, March 25 running through April 30. 

The HHSAA announced it would continue its indefinite suspension of all interscholastic competition and practices.

The Hawaii State Department of Education also announced school facilities will be closed until at least April 30 as well.

HHSAA Executive Director Chris Chun has not ruled out a spring modified season yet.

"The HHSAA and member leagues are asking the public to please comply with government instructions in hopes that we can return to our normal daily activities sooner that what is currently being projected," Chun stated in the press release. "We don't want to give up on the possibility of having a return to sports in the near future, but the leagues and the HHSAA are making the health and safety of our community its top priority."