Youth Soccer Games Canceled, Youth Baseball Hopeful For Return

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Utah Youth Soccer Association officially canceled its spring season Monday.

The organization sent out a letter to all its members saying, “based on Governor Herbet’s three phase plan, recommendations from our healthcare partner, as well as all school and multiple field closures, we are unable to offer UYSA League soccer games in May.”

UYSA continued to instruct its members that the suspension of soccer doesn’t just apply to games, but to all practices and training programs that are inconsistent with the state’s Stay At Home Directive.

The organization, which reaches over 50,000 players across the state, is hopeful to resume soccer activities later in the month. The organization sent a letter to the Governor outlining how it would like to gradually integrate soccer back into its players and coaches’ lives.

• Phase 1: In May, returning to practices, while limiting them to 10-15 players, with no scrimmaging and limiting contact. Families attending the practices must remain in their cars.
• Phase 2: In June, UYSA would like to bring back game matches while limiting non-essential contact, such as pre-match handshakes.
• Phase 3: In July, the organization proposes a return to larger events like tournaments, while still limiting spectators.\

The letter then outlines the economic benefits of the proposal, such as getting some 1,500 referees back to work, as well as the help it will give their member clubs.

However, UYSA as an organization is trying to remain positive.

In a statement to KSL Sports, UYSA CEO Bryan Attridge said, “The Utah Youth Soccer Association has been a part of Utah’s communities for 40+ years and we know first-hand the positive effect soccer has on youth players in Utah. Participation in sport not only promotes physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle, but also provides mental and emotional stability for many players.’

He went on to add, “We are excited to get our 56,000 youth players back on the field when it is safe to resume play, even if it’s in modified or limited settings. We know our players are looking forward to it as well.”

Youth Baseball States Its Case

Youth baseball is no different. Kids, parents and leagues are all hopeful to play somewhere in the middle of May.

Wasatch Baseball is one of those leagues.

“Right now, it’s the ‘hurry up and wait’ game,” said Brett Ruoti, who is the commissioner of the league. “We want people to know how the mental health aspect of youth sports is so important. With so many things being taken away from [kids] already this spring, they need youth sports.”

Ruoti points to the natural social distancing that takes place during a baseball game. “We have as much of an opportunity to social distance as a restaurant or a gym. We can limit spectators and reduce risk.”

Ruoti has been in contact with the commissioners from other leagues, such as Rocky Mountain Baseball and the Cal Ripken league, in presenting their own plan to the Governor for consideration.

Coronavirus Resources

• Have you or a family member been affected by coronavirus issues in Utah? KSL TV wants to hear from you. Contact KSL by emailing social@ksl.com.
• What is COVID-19? Here’s What You Need To Know To Stay Healthy
• What We Know And Don’t Know About The Coronavirus
• Four Common Coronavirus Questions Answered
• The latest coronavirus stories from KSL TV can be found at our Staying Safe: Coronavirus section.
• Your Life Your Health: How can parents prepare their home, children against coronavirus?

How Do I Prevent It?

The CDC has some simple recommendations, most of which are the same for preventing other respiratory illnesses or the flu:

• Avoid close contact with people who may be sick
• Avoid touching your face
• Stay home when you are sick
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Always wash your hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

How To Get Help

If you’re worried you may have COVID-19, you can contact the Utah Coronavirus Information Line at 1-800-456-7707 to speak to trained healthcare professionals. You can also use telehealth services through your healthcare providers.

Additional Resources

If you see evidence of PRICE GOUGING, the Utah Attorney General’s Office wants you to report it. Common items in question include toilet paper, water, hand sanitizer, certain household cleaners, and even cold medicine and baby formula. Authorities are asking anyone who sees price gouging to report it to the Utah Division of Consumer Protection at 801-530-6601 or 800-721-7233. The division can also be reached by email at consumerprotection@utah.gov.