Dear DIAA,

I am writing on behalf of thousands of DIAA athletes that are impacted by your decision to delay the start of and reconfigure the 2020-2021 athletic season.

Both the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics support children participating in athletics.  The science, specifically the science in Delaware, according to https://myhealthycommunity.dhss.delaware.gov/locations/state, does not support the decision to move fall sports to the winter/spring. 

The decision to deny our student athletes the ability to compete this fall poses greater risks to them than Covid-19. Our students' mental health is not being taken into consideration. Depression, anxiety, and suicide have all risen at an alarming rate in teenagers since March. Sports and physical activity serve as natural ways to negate depression and anxiety in our teens.  Not allowing our student athletes to compete this fall is only going to increase mental health issues.

Many students are looking forward to playing sports in college. Yes, recruiting does take place through club play, but not all sports have club teams and not all students are fortunate enough to afford club sports fees. Delaware has now become a pay to play state. Our students’ ability to participate in athletics this fall is now dependent upon their families ability to pay. Families that can afford club teams and leagues will play and those that can’t will be left behind. This is not what we want for our children. All student athletes should have an equal opportunity to participate in sports this fall. 

Youth sports leagues have been practicing and participating in tournaments all summer. Soccer, lacrosse, basketball, field hockey, baseball, softball, volleyball and other sports have been able to implement the guidelines successfully. Many other states are allowing their student athletes the opportunity to play sports this fall. Thankfully, these states value the mental health of their student athletes and are able to see the mental health risks far outweigh Covid risks. 

Our student athletes need to play fall sports THIS FALL. Through guidelines, waivers and parental help, we can have a successful and safe 2020 fall sports season. I ask DIAA and Governor Carney to revisit the decision that was made and let our kids play! 

Please sign this petition and contact DIAA and your local and state representatives so our student athletes can have the fall season they deserve!