State and medal presentation

[DrBaker 497]

From Jeremy Tackett(Union Athletic Director):

 Information from the KHSAA.

In our conference call the other day, we detailed plans that had been made to conduct the state championship final round. Most importantly, we also stated that those plans continue to be very flexible and could change. One of the things that will be "fine-tuned" following review by the staff as well as consultation with a variety of other state associations, is the manner in which awards are presented following the competition. We are doing everything possible to balance the desire for "normal" and public health standards and desires. 

Throughout this school year, none of the championships have involved a "normal" presentation. However, thanks to the ample space at our great venue, we have continued to try and revise plans for this weekend. At the championship, we will have a scaled-down presentation of awards to the eight medalists. 

Each medalist, along with one and only one coach, will proceed to the awards area. Masks must be worn by ALL involved at all times. Each placing position will have a labeled seat for the wrestler, and the coach is to remain with the wrestler. There is to be no gathering of the coaches as each should remain with his/her wrestler. The medal positions will be socially distanced. The athlete, when directed, will stand in front of the position and the coach can present the athlete with his medal. Then, both the coach and athlete can lower the mask, and the KHSAA photographer will then get a picture of each medalist with their coach. There will be no other opportunity for photographs other than appropriately credentialed media members who are in the area.

Unfortunately, the permanent medal stand that we normally use cannot be used due to its construction as it is not possible to keep all of the coaches and athletes appropriately socially distanced.

Team awards will be distributed to the appropriate teams as teams depart the venue as previously announced, with no on-court photo opportunities.

[GentleBeard 145]

It’s a shame the podium won’t be available for those who wrestled each other to get a pic with everyone standing next to those they wrestled. I like the flexibility, but there’s no reason why the restrictions can’t be loosened enough to accommodate one of the best traditions wrestling has. 

[grappler-of-old 44]

Yes it is a shame that the podium cannot be used, but there now seems to be some compromising, with the hope of maybe a little more.