Riverside County health officials on Tuesday announced that moderate- and high-contact sports, including baseball, basketball, cheer, football, and water polo, may soon resume in Riverside County if the county’s case rate continues to decline.
Last week, the state issued new sports guidance allowing certain moderate- and high-contact sports to begin in counties with an adjusted case rate of 14 cases or fewer per 100,000 residents. Currently, Riverside County’s adjusted case rate is 16.
The new guidance also applies to adult recreational sports teams, in addition to youth sports. Athletic programs must obtain consent from the parents or caregivers on the risks of transmission by participating in the sport.
In addition, weekly COVID-19 testing for all players and coaches is required for specific groups. Tests and results must be available within 24 hours of competitions.
Competitions between different teams will be allowed if both teams are within Riverside County or a neighboring county that also has an adjusted case rate of 14 or less where that sport is also permitted. Teams are only allowed to play one game per day.
When equipment is shared during an activity, hand hygiene will be required before play, during breaks, at half-time, and after the conclusion of the activity. Balls or other objects or equipment can be touched by multiple players during practice and play if hygiene practices are followed.
Youth sports may include observers who are immediate household members during practice and competition. Physical distancing and face coverings must be maintained. Spectators are not permitted for adult sports at this time. For adult sports, spectators are not permitted at this time.
For detailed information on the new sports guidance, which sports may resume, and the testing requirements, click here.
