Both coaches and players are ecstatic to get back to the sports they love. 

On Friday, Jan. 22, the IHSA announced that high school winter sports could start up again.  Sports had been paused since the fall because of the coronavirus pandemic. 

“I am excited that a return to high school sports has, finally, taken a positive step,” said Minooka head boys basketball coach Kevin Cain. “Our athletes and coaches have been patiently waiting for this type of positive news and for the gym doors to open back up.”

Other coaches at Minooka agree. 

“I am so excited we are getting the opportunity to get these girls back in the gym doing what they love,” head cheerleading coach Kelly Bielec said.  

On Friday the IHSA announced that low-risk sports in Phase 4 were allowed “non-conference contests, out-of state contests, tournaments and state series.”  

Minooka is in Grundy County, which is located in Region 2 and currently has a Phase 4 designation, according to the IHSA website. 

“I’m honestly really excited to get back out there with everyone and get somewhat of a season. I just wish we could have started earlier,” Jake Faron, senior basketball player, said. 

Minooka’s winter low risks sports are cheerleading, competitive dance, boys swimming, and boys and girls bowling.

Boys and girls basketball are considered high-risk sports and can have “contests allowed within conference and region.” 

“We are glad to be back together and competing on the court,” Cain said. “My hope is that the good news from the IHSA will continue on Jan. 27, and we will be able to provide our athletes an opportunity to compete against other schools this season.”

The IHSA is meeting on Jan. 27 to provide further information about the season.

All sports have different rules they must follow to prevent against the spread of the coronavirus.  For example, basketball players must wear masks in practice.

Sports Media class students include Tyler Connor-Cole, Isaiah Dupree, Thomas English, Jake Fuhrman, Max Holbrook, Joey Jaskowiak, Caleb Kies, Alex Kuchay, Alex Lamlech, Braden McCabe, Jalen Myers, Ryan Norman, Brydon North, Brandon Pieszczek, Mikell Raymond, Talan Stange, Jase Szakel, Sean Tadel, Jacob Thome, Alisa Trejo, and Ethan Wolfe.