Georgia High School Association’s Executive Director Shares Outlook For Fall Sports

Robin Hines, executive director for the Georgia High School Association, joins “Closer Look” to discuss the outlook for high school sports this fall. Hines also discusses new guidelines high school teams will be required to follow in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

LM Otero / Associated PRess file

As COVID-19 cases surge in Georgia, a volunteer-based organization that governs athletics and activities for hundreds of high schools across the state is working to figure out the safest way to proceed with high school sports this fall.

The Georgia High School Association is made up of more 450 public and private high schools, and Robin Hines, who serves as the executive director, says member schools started allowing students to practice Aug, 1.

On Wednesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” Hines told host Rose Scott that the association doesn’t have plans to cancel the sports for the fall season, but plans are fluid due to the pandemic.

“In my 38 years of education, I’ve never experienced anything quite like this,” he explained.

During the conversation, Hines also talked about the different data the association is reviewing when making decisions, COVID-19 guidelines that high sports teams must follow during in-person interactions and the importance of keeping student-athletes active and safe.

“There are some are activities in sports that are high-risk, there are others that are moderate, and others that are very low-risk such as cross-country,” said Hines.

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To listen to the full conversation, please click the audio player above.