Out of concern for the COVID-19 outbreak, the MIAA Board of Directors decided to delay the start of the spring sports season from Monday, March 16 to Monday, March 30.

“This is truly an unfortunate situation for everyone affected, but a decision of this magnitude is always made in the very best interest of our student-athletes,” Athletic Director Mike Morcerino said in an interview via email.

The decision will be revisited prior to March 30 to determine if it will have to be extended as the situation is evolving day by day. 

Girls’ tennis captain junior Yasmin Lee believes the situation is unfortunate, but it is important to stay safe.

“I’m really sad about [the delay], but I also think it’s necessary and better to be on the safer side,” Lee said. “I definitely think that at least some games will be cancelled, but I’m hopeful we can still play some matches this season.”

The MIAA also notes that during this period, out-of-season coaching is prohibited. The MIAA Handbook Rule 35.4.1 still stands, which says the first team competition can only occur at least 11 days after a team’s first practice.

“The safety and well-being of our student-athletes is our top priority,” Mocerino said in his email. “As the situation evolves, athletics will continue working in conjunction with the District, Northborough and Southborough Boards of Health, Northborough and Southborough town officials, the (CDC), and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.”