COVID-19 guidelines for spring 2022 season

by SLYSA Media

The Saint Louis Youth Soccer Association (SLYSA) will be following MYSA, IYSA, Missouri and Illinois state COVID-19 guidelines, as well as local county guidelines for play this fall season. The league is scheduled to play at multiple locations with many of them being in different counties and states, and there may consequently, be different guidelines when it comes to playing and/or spectators at various locations. New information continues to be available, and with that in mind, SLYSA will continue to evaluate the safest options when it comes to playing games.

It is critical that SLYSA, member clubs, independent teams, and coaches create a safe environment for players and that parents/guardians make the best decision possible for their players. SLYSA thus encourages everyone involved to follow recommendations by the CDC, state, and local governments.

All coaches, players, officials, volunteers, and spectators must undergo a self-assessment for any COVID-19 symptoms. Individuals should not leave home to participate if they, or someone they live with, has symptoms of COVID -19. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Should an individual have demonstrated any such symptoms, he or she must follow the recommendations from the CDC, state, and local governments.

Arrival at facilities

Coaches, players, and parents/guardians should strictly limit the time spent congregating at a facility before games begin. Meet-up times should reflect this, including arriving changed and ready to begin the warm-up.

Coaches’ Responsibilities:

  • Ensure the health and safety of all players.
  • Inquire how the athletes are feeling, and send them home if they act or appear ill.
  • Follow all state and local health protocols.
  • Ensure that all athletes have their individual equipment (ball, water bottles, bag, etc).

Players’ Responsibilities:

  1. Have temperature taken before arriving for a game.
  2. Wash hands thoroughly before and after a game.
  3. Bring and use hand sanitizer to every game.
  4. Practice social distancing when possible.

Parents’/Guardians’ Responsibilities:

  • Ensure child is healthy and check his or her temperature before arriving for a game.
  • Limit or avoid carpooling with other players.
  • Adhere to social distancing requirements based on state and local health requirements.
  • Notify your club/team immediately if your child becomes ill.