Winter Sports Suspended as Covid-19 Cases Rise Across Minnesota

On Nov. 21, thousands of athletes began to grieve the suspension of their sports, due to the rapidly increasing number of Covid-19 cases in Minnesota. 

Governor Tim Walz announced the additional restrictions after the state passed 200,000 cases, and is now wistfully approaching 300,000. 

HHS postponed the start of ten sports after Walz made his announcement, including boys and girls basketball, wrestling, and boys swim and dive. 

As the fall sports season came to a close and the winter season has been postponed, many students realized how lucky they were to have the opportunity to compete. 

“Everyone knew the season could get shut down and be over any minute, so you had to make the most out of every practice and game,” said Chris Roberts, senior. 

Roberts was a member of the football team that won three out of six games in the condensed season. 

“I think most people who played a sport in the fall took it seriously, especially the seniors. For some, it would be their last time ever playing again,” Roberts said. 

While students who were ready to compete in a winter sport at HHS are frustrated with the extended wait, there are many athletes who have seen their sports cancelled outside of the high school as well. 

Emma Rayle, senior, dances competitively at a local studio. One of their performances was cancelled immediately following the Governor’s announcement. 

“I totally get where the restrictions are needed, but I am definitely bummed out about it,” said Rayle. “My dance studio was being incredibly careful with precautions and it is hard to see other people in Minnesota not being as careful.” 

The other sports that will be postponed include adapted floor hockey, alpine skiing, girls gymnastics, girls and boys hockey, and nordic skiing. 

The earliest the season could begin is Dec. 19, but the athletes are not holding their breath.