High school sports moves into new phase of Return-to-Play on Monday

High school athletes will be able to participate in sport-specific activities starting on Monday.

The Illinois Department of Public Health has approved the Illinois High School Association’s next phase of return-to-play. It’s called Phase 4 to match the state’s Restore Illinois plan, which is also in Phase 4.

Athletes were previously limited to conditioning workouts in groups of 10. In Phase 4, groups of 50 are allowed to workout together and balls and other gear can be used. High school coaches will be allowed 20 contact days with their team that must be used before Aug. 9.

“Safety remains at the forefront of everything that the IHSA is doing as we move into Phase 4 and beyond,” IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson said. “Our focus now shifts to continuing to work with state leadership to determine how to provide the safest environment possible for fall sports.”

The IHSA sent the plan to the IDPH two weeks ago. It was approved on Friday.

Each individual school district must approve the move into the next phase. Chicago Public Schools have not allowed athletes to workout in any capacity so far.

A CPS spokesperson told the Sun-Times on June 7 that it was “working diligently to develop guidance and protocols to ensure our students can safely begin training.”

Read the full Phase 4 plan: IHSA Phase 4 Return to Play Plan