NorthWood’s Cooper Wiens dives for a ball during last year’s basketball season. InkFreeNews file photo by Mike Deak

By Keith Knepp
InkFreeNews

NAPPANEE – Following the announcement that NorthWood High School would be shifting to a virtual format for the remainder of November, athletic director Norm Sellers released the following information regarding the school’s winter athletic programs:

“As you are aware NorthWood High School will transition to full-time remote learning beginning on Monday, Nov. 16, thru Tuesday, Dec. 1. This decision has been made because we cannot provide the necessary coverage for classrooms during the school day. NorthWood athletics will continue with our planned extra-curricular activities including practices and competitions for all winter teams.

“We have stressed from the beginning in order for NorthWood athletics to continue to participate, parents are going to need to continue to be vigilant in screening your children prior to going to practice or competitions. If they display ANY symptoms they must stay home. It has become abundantly clear that contact tracing due to positive cases of COVID-19 will shut down winter athletic programs for a period of 14 days. Now that athletes will have more freedom during the day it will be more important than ever that athletes make good choices.

“The rate of infection in our community is extremely high, in order for our winter athletes to proceed they will need to be careful. It will also be important for our athletes to abide by the Remote Learning protocols by attending class everyday in every class. All IHSAA eligibility requirements will still be in place whether we are Remote or In-person. Each six-week grading period will determine eligibility as usual.

“All practices and competitions will go on as scheduled. If changes become necessary communication will come from the athletic office to the programs effected. NorthWood athletics appreciates your understanding and flexibility in dealing with COVID-19 scenarios. We will continue to do what is necessary to keep our athletes and coaches safe in the days and weeks ahead. We can do this if we continue to work together.”