Youth Sports Can Resume Across Minnesota

ACROSS MINNESOTA— New guidance released from the Minnesota Department of Health approves the return to youth sporting events in 2021.

Starting January 4, 2021, practices for organized youth and adult sports may resume. Practices cannot exceed pod sizes of more than 25.

Spectators are not are allowed; however, this does not prevent a parent, guardian, or support person from being present if necessary due to a child's age, disability, or medical condition.

Starting January 14, 2021, games and scrimmages with other teams may begin. Additional guidance is forthcoming, health officials said Monday.

"The decision to resume sports does not mean engaging in sports is without risk. Any time you gather with other people, you are putting yourself and others at risk of exposure," health officials wrote as part of the medical guidance.

Face coverings must be worn by all persons at all times, including practices and games, with only a few exceptions like during wrestling matches, water sports, and some cheering and gymnastic events.

Concessions and entertainment are not allowed at this time.

Health officials warned that social interactions outside of practices are sources of transmission among teams.

"The masking, distancing, and other guidance provided here is intended to reduce the risk of transmission, but does not eliminate it," health officials explained.