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NYSPHSAA Forms Panel to Address Long-Term Impact of COVID-19 on High School Athletics

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. impact-of-covid-19-on-high-school-athletics.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 23rd 2026 at 10:29 GMT by syracuse.com
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Schenectady, NY - January 23rd, 2026 - As high school athletics in New York State enter their fifth year of operation under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) is taking proactive steps to analyze and adapt to the long-term effects on student-athletes and the sporting landscape. The organization has announced the formation of a dedicated panel tasked with studying the pandemic's impact and formulating recommendations for a sustainable and safe future for fall high school sports - and beyond.

The initial disruption of the 2020 and 2021 seasons, characterized by shortened schedules, altered formats, and strict health protocols, highlighted the vulnerabilities of traditional athletic structures. While adaptations were implemented, the pandemic's lingering effects - ranging from potential long-term health consequences in athletes who contracted the virus to shifting public perceptions of large group gatherings - necessitate a more comprehensive and forward-looking approach.

This isn't simply about determining whether sports can be played; it's about defining how they can be played safely and equitably, while also ensuring the well-being of all participants. The NYSPHSAA recognizes the critical role athletics play in adolescent development - fostering teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness - and is committed to preserving these opportunities. However, the organization acknowledges that the 'new normal' demands a reassessment of established practices.

The newly formed panel, chaired by Section V Athletic Director John Giandurco, represents a diverse range of expertise. This includes key medical professionals like Dr. Michael McEneny from the Capital Region Medical Center and Dr. Brian Kesser, a representative from the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health, lending vital scientific insight to the discussion. The inclusion of athletic administrators and coaches, represented by individuals such as David Leitzel (Section XI), Timothy Storie (Section III), Matthew Wiles (Section IV), Ron Spacone (Section VIII) and Larry Genung (Section I), ensures that practical considerations and on-the-ground realities are factored into the panel's findings. The deliberate inclusion of regional representatives signifies a commitment to reflecting the varied geographical and demographic contexts within New York State.

According to NYSPHSAA spokesperson Joanne Fahey, the panel's mandate extends beyond the immediate concerns of the upcoming fall season. "We want to be sure we are on top of what will be required to run our sports safely in the fall and beyond," Fahey stated. The scope of the investigation will encompass areas such as air quality standards in gyms and fields, revised guidelines for contact tracing, and best practices for managing potential outbreaks within teams. There's also a consideration of the psychological impact on athletes, who endured considerable uncertainty and disruption during the height of the pandemic.

The NYSPHSAA is explicitly collaborating with state and local health departments, a critical factor in ensuring that any recommendations align with current scientific understanding and public health mandates. This collaborative approach underscores the organization's commitment to evidence-based decision-making and responsible leadership. The ongoing evolution of the virus, including the emergence of new variants and shifts in transmission rates, require constant vigilance and adaptation. This panel represents a formal mechanism for proactively addressing these challenges.

While the specific recommendations emerging from the panel remain to be seen, it's anticipated that they will address issues such as mandatory testing protocols, ventilation improvements in athletic facilities, and the potential integration of remote training options. Furthermore, the panel is expected to explore strategies for minimizing the risk of transmission during competitions, including adjustments to seating arrangements and spectator limitations. The ultimate goal is to develop a framework that balances the desire for normalcy with the unwavering priority of student-athlete health and safety, ensuring that high school sports can thrive for years to come.