The West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission has announced new guidelines for winter sports.
According to the WVSSAC, there have been modifications to basketball.
Here is a breakdown:
Face coverings are required if social distancing is not possible. Coaching staff and other bench personnel are required to wear one. This includes those at the scorer’s table.
Handshakes before and after the game will be suspended.
Officials are not permitted to supply water bottles, cups, or towels for shared use. Each athlete is responsible for bringing his or her own water.
They recommend teams to reduce the number of people travelling when possible.
Head coaches from each team will attend a pre-game conference with social distancing included. Players will not be allowed to attend.
The WVSSAC says separation should be created between the bench areas and spectators. Spectators should sit on the fourth row and higher behind the team area.
Cheerleaders will also be required to wear masks or face coverings.
For officials, the referee will only attend the pre-game conference and will maintain social distancing.
Officials will not be required to wear jackets during pre-game.
Officials are asked to eliminate the jump ball and the visiting team will be awarded the first alternating possession for the throw in.