Challenges Extend Beyond the Field of Play for ‘Fall 2’ Sports Season

By Gregory Sirico, WVCSD Athletic Director

Warwick student-athletes are thankful to be back competing on the athletic fields and in the gyms for the condensed, seven-week fall season. Section IX has loosened restrictions by allowing two family members (both home and visitor) to attend outdoor contests.  Warwick will be in compliance with this but, unfortunately, Section IX is still not allowing any spectators for indoor contests.

Busing is an issue throughout New York State and specifically for games that occur during the week for multiple reasons. First, busing is not available until the conclusion of driver’s normal daily runs which have been extended due to later end times and limited student capacity. The district’s transportation department and drivers are working hard through challenging circumstances.

Secondly, Orange County Department of Health’s policy for a positive Covid-19 test result on a bus is to quarantine the entire ridership regardless of proximity. On an ordinary Wednesday in the fall season, the district would be utilizing four to five buses filled to capacity with 45 athletes traveling to different venues. This season, the district is realistically looking at the possibility of having one bus with the new maximum standard of 20 students. Transportation is hoping that Orange County Department of Health loosens the regulations regarding bus capacity.

The athletic department is creatively seeking solutions that address transportation issues, including the lack of available drivers at 2:30 in the afternoon to drive available buses. In addition, the district is looking to reschedule games to Saturdays as Warwick is allowing private transportation to away contests. With permission, students can be transported to games by their parents or may carpool with another adult driver and additional students as long as they have parental consent. Students may drive themselves to a contest but are not permitted to transport a non-family member.

The district will continue to work through any and all obstacles that may arise in an effort to make this a successful Fall 2 season.  Email gsirico@wvcsd.org for any concerns.

The Fall sports season was delayed due to Covid-19 & will be played this spring. The Warwick Wildcats football team, pictured here in a 2016 team photo, will take on the Goshen Gladiators on Fri., Mar. 19 to compete for the Spirit Trophy.