IHSA updates Phase 4 Return to Play

A week after releasing Phase 4 Return to Play guidelines, the IHSA has amended the rules to align with directives from the Illinois Department of Public Health and Gov. JB Pritzker’s office. 

Teams were allowed to begin Phase 4 practice on July 6. 

IHSA’s executive director Craig Anderson announced the changes in an email to athletic directors across the state Thursday. 

“There cannot be any contact drills/physical contact among athletes,” all individuals must always wear masks — the IHSA is still working to determine if this includes outside while social distancing — and there must be a strict 50 person limit to all indoor activities, including fans.

“The changes and adjustments to Phase 4 ‘Return to Play’ guidelines could come periodically in the coming weeks as the testing numbers fluctuate,” Anderson wrote. “While these changes to our guidance document have been shared with IDPH, we do not have our document approved. When we do have it approved with these changes, we will pass along an updated copy. We appreciate your patience and understanding.”