COVID-19 UPDATE (April 13, 2020):
We hope this communication finds you, your family and friends healthy and staying safe. Within the past few weeks our sincere thanks and best wishes go out to our medical heroes who are on the front line fighting COVID-19, many of whom are from our extended soccer family.
Never did we imagine the that the season would be delayed as it is now. Because of the escalating COVID-19 crisis, staying off the fields and following the guidance of public health professionals and government agencies to help fight against the further spread of the virus is the priority.
Based on the very latest information that we’ve received from numerous sources, RYS is extending the suspension of all affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities through and including Sunday, May 3, 2020. This suspension continues to include, but is not limited to: all games (of all types), practices, clinics and training.
Assuming that circumstances do not warrant or require a further extension, commencing Monday, May 4, the suspension will be lifted on all soccer activities as noted above, except for league games (in-town and travel) which may commence starting on Saturday, May 9, 2020.
All Mass Youth Soccer affiliated League Presidents, with their concern being the ultimate health and well-being of our entire soccer community, are in unanimous agreement with this decision.
Our primary focus during this unprecedented time has been, and remains the safety and welfare of our players, coaches and families. As importantly, we are concerned for the safety and well-being of our communities and seek to comply with medical directives on how best to stem the further spread of the virus. This is not just a soccer decision, but a public health decision.
We continue to closely monitor the situation via Mass Youth Soccer and the League Association, who also have made significant cancellations and postponements, as well as the other major sport organizations and events throughout the country. RYS families can expect regular updates as this situation continues to evolve with the next update planned on/about April 20th.
Please note that we are aware of the prospect of cancelling the spring season and in agreement with Mass Youth Soccer feel that it may be premature to take such actions since regular season and/or alternative season play remain an option.
Our desire, when it is safe to do so, is to have our members provide opportunities for children to return to the fields in the best interests for their health and wellness. There are so many physical and mental benefits to youth sports and we would like to be able to contribute to this phase of recovery through soccer. More information on a potential season extension will be provided in future communications.
Please stay safe and remain healthy.
Best regards,
Haresh Daryanani
RYS President