SW football returns . . . with a different schedule

SW football returns . . . with a different schedule

 

Unless things change due to Covid-19, high school football will have a 2020 season. However, the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) has dramatically altered the schedule.

The first day of practice will still be Monday Aug. 10, the first games will still be Friday Aug. 28, and the State finals will still be Nov. 20-21.

However, there will only be a seven-week regular season with the option of playing five, six, or the full seven games. 

South Winn which is in Class 1A, will play the five district teams beginning in week three. The first two weeks are up to the school whether or not they play and who they play.

The playoffs will begin Oct. 16, which was week eight in the old schedule. Now, all teams will qualify for the playoffs; hence the need for a longer playoff series.

The reason for the change is the specter of Covid-19. With the new schedule, a team will not be penalized for having to miss a game or two due to the pandemic According to the IHSAA, “Pairings for the six-round playoffs will be determined by geography, quality and team availability as primary considerations.”

Looking at the changes, SW activities director Kris Einck commented, “We feel it is a good plan. It makes for a shorter season, but allows all teams to make the playoffs. This will protect teams from potentially missing the playoffs for quarantine purposes.

“There are six teams in our district, including us; therefore we will have five district games. We will keep the opening day (Aug. 28) non-district home game against NFV.”  

Head football coach Jason Ohrt stated, “I'm satisfied with what has come out to this point.  Health and safety is the top priority right now.  As we get closer to August 10th, we will get more direction on guidance and protocol for the season.  I think I can speak for everyone involved in our program when I say we are all grateful to play football this fall.”

 
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