State expects most high school athletes to play this season despite coronavirus

State expects most high school athletes to play this season despite coronavirus

O-k with the call.

As athletes get ready to face off with other teams ... they'll put their gear on... have their water bottles ready... but will also have masks ready and available before stepping on the field.

Many parents in elkmont told me they're excited for the season but want people to continue to follow health guidelines.

Bo starkey, parent "these guys fought their whole life to get to this point.

These seniors.

The fought 17, 18 years to get to this moment.

Just allowing the the chance to play means something," bo starkey has kids in the limestone county school district - and works closely with student-athletes at elkmont high school.

He told me he's thankful elkmont and other teams have the chance to play this week - despite some schools having positive cases of coronavirus.

The alabama high school athletic association says just under 90- percent of football teams will play in week 1.

By the time regionals come around - it'll be up to nearly 100.

The a-h-s-a-a- says on the field - games will look the same.

Off the field - players need to social distance and wear masks.

That's something starkey says he appreciates.

Bo starkey, parent "it's on us to own this and to make sure we're doing the right thing so we can play.

Social distancing, wearing a mask, cleaning, if you get sick, pull yourself out, get tested," in today's a-h-s-a-a update - coaches across the state said they're thankful to be able to play this year.

And in north alabama - the limestone county athletic director says he's gotten positive responses from teams on participation.

Starkey told me he's glad he'll be able to go to games this season... and will do everything he can to stay safe while there.

Bo starkey, parent "we've got to do our part.

Just having that puncher's chance, that fighting chance to get the season means a whole lot," not shot yet the a-h-s-a-a said if a school doesn't want to participate in a particular game - or doesn't have enough healthy players to do so - they won't be punished.

Reporting in madison county, alexis scott waay-31