WASHINGTON, D.C. – The District of Columbia State Athletic Association today announced that it is pausing the beginning of the 2020-21 athletic calendar due to the ongoing public health emergency in the District. Per the Mayor of the District of Columbia, high school extracurricular sports activities and competitions are suspended for DC public schools, public charter schools, private schools and parochial schools.

While winter sports practice had been rescheduled to begin on Monday, Dec. 14, DCSAA member schools will not be allowed to conduct any athletic activities at the moment, including reengagement, skill development, practices or competitions.

“When we made the decision to push back the start of the season, we were aware of the possibility that the new schedule might not be met,” DCSAA Executive Director Clark Ray said. “Our goal was that if the data and science supported returning to play in December, that’s what we would do. Unfortunately, at this time, the risks associated with playing simply are too high.

“We appreciate the leadership and clear direction of Mayor Bowser and know that she has the health and safety of our student-athletes and all District resident first and foremost. We need everyone to continue during their part – wear your mask, practice social distancing, wash your hands – so that we can have a season.”

The DCSAA is targeting Monday, Feb. 1, as the new start of the 2020-21 athletic calendar, with the intent of holding three seven-week sport seasons:

• Winter sports: Practice begins Feb. 1; competition Feb. 8 to March 27


• Fall sports: Football practice begins March 1; other sports begin practice March 8; competition March 15 to May 1


• Spring sports: Practice begins April 26; competition May 3 to June 12

“While it is disappointing to delay the start of the athletic season, our focus remains on getting student-athletes on the field and court and back to competition,” Ray said. “We know the positive impact that athletics have on our youths and look forward to getting back in action. Of course, we will continue to monitor the situation and maintain the flexibility to return to play as soon as we can.”