1. Can WYSA require that all players wear masks when on the field?
MYSA has amended their policy on masks and requires that facial coverings must be worn at all times except:
- During high intensity aerobic or anaerobic activities
- When more than 6 feet apart
- For individuals that are unable to wear a face covering due to a medical condition or disability
- Goal keepers are not required to wear a mask
Westborough is following the MA EEA and MYSA policy regarding masks. BAYS is currently discussing a league policy regarding masks, but no decision has been made as of 8/21/20.
In the event that a town Department of Health (DPH) has more restrictive facial coverings guidelines the traveling team must adhere to the town rules. BAYS is working on a reference document that has any unique local DPH guidelines so teams are aware of any local requirements well in advance. Local coaches must also inform visiting coaches of any unique restrictions by the Wednesday before the game.
2. Has WYSA considered an in-town only option for the fall season?
WYSA has considered many alternatives including in-town only as well as a self-administered league with fewer towns. All options considered pose logistical and administrative problems but can and will be explored if the current situation changes. As of 8/21/20 more than half of the BAYS member towns are planning to place teams for the fall 2020 season. Most of the towns that have decided not to play are inside 128 and would generally be considered the "Boston" towns (Arlington, Jamaica Plain, Cambridge, etc...). Based on the information we have, the WYSA BOD has decided to enter teams into BAYS for the fall season.
3. Why are you not allowing WYSA teams to practice or scrimmage one another?
For travel teams, where most of this is going to happen, we are trying to minimize the chance of any intra-program infection. Baseball recently had to suspend a division, by keeping our teams isolated from one another we are trying to minimize the likelihood of having to suspend all teams rather than just one that may have been exposed.
4. Why is soccer considered a moderate risk?
The Massachusetts Executive office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) has classified soccer as a Moderate Risk sport. Please see the link to the right for their explanation. The MA Department of Health (DPH) does not consider the act of playing soccer to be an exposure.
To be answered...
What would be considered and exposure?
Will I get a refund if the season is cancelled?
What if someone on my team is not feeling well or has Covid-19?
What are other towns doing?
What if a town we are supposed to play is considered high-risk?