Winter Sports Spectator Protocol Details

We all have missed the roar of the crowd at our CHS Athletics contests so far this year.  Unfortunately, the quiet of the crowd will continue through the winter season as we meet all state, league and local protocols. We understand this is a big loss for many families. We thank you for your understanding as we strive to keep our seasons going and keep all involved healthy. 

Below are details of our Spectator Protocols for the winter season:

Swimming and Gymnastics Meets- 

• Neither Blue Hills Regional nor Metro South Gymnastics Academy are allowing spectators at their venues for our competitions so unfortunately, no spectators will be allowed to attend. This includes parents and other family members.  
• Streaming the action- We will be doing our best to have somebody live stream as much action as possible from these meets. If a parent of a Bulldog swimmer and a Bulldog gymnast is interested in using their phone to livestream any of these events for us, please contact the CHS Athletic Office- ericksond@cantonma.org.

Ice Hockey and Basketball Games- 

• Only immediate family members (from the same household) may attend our home games- Hockey at Metropolis Rink and Basketball at CHS. 
• We need to average as close to 2 spectators per student athlete as is possible. 
• Bulldog spectators will NOT be allowed admittance at our AWAY contests. This include parents and other immediate family members. 
• Gates will open 15 minutes prior to the start of the game. We will not admit any fans into the venues prior to this time. If you arrive early please remain in your car until that point. 
• Family members attending one game of a double or triple- header will be asked to leave the facility at the conclusion of the game they are there to watch. We will be clearing the gym/rink of all spectators in between each game. 
• Fans will be asked to leave the facility immediately after the contest is over. Student athletes will follow closely behind. 
• ALL in attendance must fill out our CHS Athletics/Spectator Self Screener prior to attending each game and must check in at our check-in table each game for contact tracing purposes. 
• Family members attending a game must wear a mask at all times and must socially distance from other families.  
• Streaming the action- Thanks to the support of the CHS Athletic Booster Club, we will be live streaming our home VARSITY hockey and basketball games. We also anticipate that most of our away games will be live streamed as well.  Details on how to watch will be updated throughout the season on this blog. 

Thank you again for your cooperation with these challenging protocols as we continue navigating high school sports during this pandemic. 

Bulldogs Girls Soccer sending two student athletes to local D1 Programs

It's difficult enough for a high school student athlete to move on to play at the NCAA Division 1 level, let alone for two student athletes from the same team to do so, but that is exactly what is happening in the CHS Girls Soccer program.  Seniors Sarai Costello and Olivia Rodman each recently finished up their Bulldog careers and committed to continuing their soccer journeys at some big New England programs- Costello at Boston College and Rodman at Providence College. 

Rodman and Costello were key components to a championship campaign for the Bulldogs as the team dominated the Hockomock League Davenport Division earning their first league title since 2011.  They played under first-year coach Idris Senyonjo (center of photo above), who guided this talented group through a challenging season.  Joining the future Friar and future Eagle on the Hockomock League All-Star team were Mia Gilmore, Eliza Diletzia and Allie McCabe. 

Canton High School hosted a signing celebration this past month where both Rodman and Costello were joined by their families, Senyonjo, Athletic Director Danny Erickson and Principal David Turcotte (both seen in photo above), so CHS Athletics could officially announce the signings.  

Sarai Costello-

One of the most accomplished soccer players to come out of Canton in our 40+ year soccer history.  Costello joined the Bulldogs this fall for the first time as she was committed to her US Soccer Development Academy Club for her first three years at CHS. 

Coach Senyonjo had this to say about her- "Sarai is a very versatile player who was key to our team shape both on and off the ball. Her ability to link up play with the defense and offense was the key to the team's success. I am glad to have had the pleasure of working with a player who plays with heart, and loves and understands the game at a high level. I have no doubt that she will go on to great things at BC.

Here are just some of her accomplishments/accolades:

• Captain of the NEFC Academy team for the past three years
• Part of team who won the US Club soccer National Championship in 2018
• Named to the Olympic Development Program Inter-regional Best XI. 
• NEFC club représentative for the Girls Academy League national panel. 
• Hockomock League All-Star- 2020

Most Positive Memory of CHS Soccer- "Winning the Davenport might be the obvious pick, but being back in a Canton uniform, playing with my sister and best friends, has been the best part of CHS soccer for me by far. After not playing high school soccer the first three years, I'm grateful that I got to end my Canton soccer career with the same people I started it with."

The Future- "Playing at BC and following in the footsteps of one of Canton's greats- Lauren Berman, is extremely exciting. My education and my game are constantly at the forefront of my mind, so being able to further both at a school that is recognized for Keith both academically and athletically strong is a dream."

Olivia Rodman-

Rodman, a senior captain, has been a fixture up top for the Bulldogs for the past four years helping to lead the squad to playoff appearances in each of those campaigns.  She has been a constant threat to score in her more than 75 games playing for the Green and White.  

Coach Senyonjo had this to say about her- "Coming in as a new coach, you are always hoping to have players like Olivia on your team. She gives everything she has and is always the first to be hard on herself when things are going well. She is able to keep her head down and just play the game. She has giving Canton High School four years of great soccer and scored plenty of goals along the way. I'm glad I had the opportunity to work with her."

Here are some of here accomplishments/accolades over the years:

• 2020 Team Captain
• Hockomock League All-Star- 2018, 2019, 2020
• 2020 EMGSCA Team MVP Award
• Eastern Mass All-Star- 2019, 2020
• Member of the Scorpion Soccer Club ECNL team since 2011
• Career stats- an amazing 40 goals and 19 assists. 

Most Positive Memory of CHS Soccer- "Winning the title our senior season - my last time playing on the team. Having played on the team for four years, all the ups and downs, it had really come down to a huge game to show what these four different teams (seasons) and four different journeys were all about. The positive experiences I've had on the team, my second family, are endless. but this one will stick with me forever."

The Future- "I am so excited to further my academic and athletic career at the school I've always dreamed of attending. From the moment I visited Providence College, I knew I wanted to be a part of the Friar family.  The opportunities this school provides for me both academically and athletically is something I am proud to have the next four years. It is a program that will lead me to success far beyond the years of college!"

Winter Sports Season starts Monday- Important info for our Winter Bulldogs!

Hello Bulldog Nation! 

Below is important information for ALL registered winter athletes.  This year's winter sports season will feature Boys and Girls Swim, Gymnastics, Boys and Girls Ice Hockey and Boys and Girls Basketball. 

This is MUST READ info for Monday!

Sport Specific info can be found at the bottom 

CHS Athletics Self-Screen Health Questionnaire- 
As part of our CHS Athletics Covid-19 Protocols, all who participate in CHS Athletics activities (games, meets, practice, meetings, etc.) must complete our CHS Athletics Self-Screen Health Questionnaire DAILY- and as close as possible to the time you are actually participating in CHS athletics that day.  The questionnaire must be completed by student athletes, coaches, referees, spectators and other game officials.  We ask that everyone do their part to keep us all safe/healthy, by making this daily task a priority. 

The link to the Self-Screen can be found below.  This screen is separate and in addition to, the student screen needed to attend school. 

So- ALL student athletes attending tryouts/practices on Monday, must complete the screening prior to participating. Your presence at practice will indicate to our coaching staff that you have completed the screening. The CHS Athletic office will be confirming that forms have been filled out on a daily basis. 

Please consider saving the link on your phone for easy access daily. 

Click Here for the Daily Screen. 

Social Distancing/Masks/Arrival Procedures- 

• Student athletes may not arrive at a CHS athletic practice more than 15 minutes prior to the start. If you do arrive earlier than that we ask you to REMAIN IN YOUR CAR. Do NOT congregate in groups in the parking lot or in hallways, etc.  
• Student athletes must wear a properly worn mask while arriving at practice. Be sure to have a back-up.  We will have back-up masks available as well.
• The only exception to the face covering expectations is when a written doctor's note is presented to the Athletic Trainer, stating that there is a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a face covering. 
• ALWAYS practice social distancing while at practices and games. Please understand that wearing a mask does not allow you to stand close to each other. We MUST SOCIALLY DISTANCE as well. Avoid contact with other student athletes and coaches. No "high fives," "fist bumps", or "pats on the back."

Drinking Water-

• All student athletes are expected to arrive at all practices/games/meets/matches with their own, individual water bottle. Be sure to bring enough. A 16 oz bottle of water is typically nowhere near enough water for a practice session or game. 
• Be sure your water bottle is clearly labeled. 
• The Athletic Trainer may have water available for emergencies only at CHS but not at off-campus sites.  Don't assume water bubblers will be available. They most likely will not. 

Other Important Info-

• Only student athletes who have been registered to participate and have provided an up-to-date physical exam to the Athletic Office may attend Monday. 
• If you must carpool to practices, please WEAR masks in the car.  It makes no sense for us to all put this huge effort into following protocols and then hopping in cars with teammates, mask-less. Please do your part.  

SPORT SPECIFIC INFORMATION FOR MONDAY

BOYS BASKETBALL: All Juniors and Seniors should report to the CHS gym for tryouts from 3:00-5:00 Monday 12/14. All Sophomores should report to the GMS gym for tryouts at 4:45-6:15 on Monday 12/14. All freshmen should report to the GMS gym for tryouts at 6:30-8:00  on Monday 12/14. All players should bring their own water, and at least 2 masks. Please review protocols explained earlier in this blog entry. If you have any questions you can contact Coach Gordy at cantonboysbasketball@gmail.com 

BOYS HOCKEY: All registered boys ice hockey candidates should check their personal email accounts for information about assigned Monday tryout times as well as the "practice plans" for Monday. Players will be assigned to either the 7pm or 820pm time slots at Ponky. There will also be a Zoom immediately following the CHS Winter Athletics Town Hall on Thursday night for boys hockey-specific information and opportunities for Q&A. Parents and players are welcome to attend. The Zoom link will be sent in an email. If you do not receive any emails from Coach Shuman before 5PM on Thursday, please contact him at bshuman@westwood.k12.ma.us. 

GIRLS BASKETBALL: for all registered players with up-to-date physicals.

Tryouts Monday and Tuesday:

-9th and 10th graders report to Galvin 3:00-4:30

-11th and 12th graders report to the HS 5:15-7:15

Please bring your own water, masks and reversible practice shirt and arrive no earlier than 15 minutes before tryouts begin.  Please review protocols explained earlier in this blog. Any questions feel free to contact Coach Jim Choquette: james_choquette@hotmail.com 

GIRLS HOCKEY:

• Make sure to have your updated physical handed in to the Athletic Department.
• Make sure to get plenty of rest and pre-hydrate for a couple days prior to Monday.
• Please come to the rink dressed in all your equipment excepting skates and helmet.
• Proceed to the designated area to lace up your SHARPENED skates.
• Bring both a dark and light (preferably white) shirt and a posted list will tell you what color to wear.
• Bring your own, clearly marked water bottle (no sharing whatsoever!).
• Lastly, bring your energy and enthusiasm to every drill and have fun!!!

The groups for the first day will be:

3:00 PM    Returning varsity players, all goaltenders and all Juniors and Seniors.

4:20 PM    All non-returning varsity Freshmen, Sophomores and all goaltenders.

Players could be asked to be in a different group for necessity of position players needed per hour.  This initial invite and the initial groups are just that and should not come with any other expectations.

GYMNASTICS:

All registered gymnasts should report to MSGA at 255 Revere Street at 2:45 on Monday. Athletes must be dressed in leotard and shorts, have their phone, water bottle, and grip bag. Practice will end promptly at 4:00 pm. Be sure to review all protocols in blog entry above. Any questions, please contact Coaches Abbott or Coach Reardon - abbottj@cantonma.org, reardons@cantonma.org.

SWIMMING: 

Boys and Girls swimming will start on Mon Dec 14th .

The first two days will be tryouts as we are forced to limit the number of kids this year due to the space limitations around Covid-19. 

There will be two practices and swimmers will be notified by email their practice time. Any Questions- contact coach Cavanaugh. cantonbulldogswimcoach@gmail.com

Winter Season Registration now open

Today we are excited to be officially opening registration for the 2020-21 Winter Sports Season.  As has been explained on this blog recently, this winter will look incredibly different than most every winter before it. Due to the guidelines set by the state, DESE, MIAA and through decisions at both the Hockomock League and local level, we will be offering the following sports this fall:

• Girls Gymnastics
• Girls Swimming
• Boys Swimming
• Girls Basketball
• Boys Basketball
• Girls Ice Hockey
• Boys Ice Hockey

Our other traditional winter sports of Indoor Track, Wrestling and Competitive Cheer, will be moved to seasons later in the school year. (See info on this in previous blog entry.) 

Registration information for our winter season can be found at the bottom of this blog entry.  However, it is important that all CHS winter athletics families read important details below PRIOR to registering. 

WINTER SEASON DATES- The first day of winter sports is Monday, December 14, 2020.  First contest will take place during the week of January 4, 2021.  The season will wrap up no later than Sunday, February 21, 2021. 

The sports that we are able to offer this winter will all play under new, modifications and guidelines.  Highlights of these guidelines include:

• All participants must wear a face covering at all times (this includes during play, other than when swimming)
• All participants must complete a Covid-19 screening daily.
• No more than 25 people may work together at a practice. This will limit roster sizes. 
• No more than 23 people may be on a school bus. This has caused us to temporarily amend our transportation policy. 
• No more than 50 people may attend any Hockomock League contest as spectators. This has caused us to limit spectators to 2 per/student athlete and only at home contests. 

Details of our guidelines as well as sport specific modifications to our sports can be found at the links below:

CHS Athletics Covid-19 Protocols

MIAA Gymnastics Modifications

MIAA Swimming Modifications

MIAA Basketball Modifications

MIAA Ice Hockey Modifications

The CHS Athletic Department has been working hard to institute practices, guidelines and protocols that will ensure the safest possible experience for our student athletes under these circumstances. We are incredibly confident that we are ready to provide an educational, competitive and SAFE/HEALTHY interscholastic athletic experience for all of our winter Bulldogs, just as we did in the fall. 

ATHLETIC USER FEE- Due to all of the changes associated with this season's athletic experience, the CPS School Committee approved an adjustment to the user fee for this past fall season. The fee for playing a fall sport this past fall was $160.  The same $160 user fee for all upcoming seasons (including winter) will be considered and voted on at the December 3, 2020 School Committee meeting. Some adjustments to the facility fee for Hockey, Swimming and Gymnastics are set to be approved as well. You have the option to pay the fee as you register online, but you don't have to. You can always go back and register in the week or so after tryouts. 

GATE FEES- Given the limited number of spectators allowed at our contests this winter, there will be no admission cost charged at any contest. 

ROSTER SIZES- It is always our goal to get as many students involved in our programs as is possible while still providing a great educational experience. We will be guided by that again this winter. However, due to guidelines related to Covid-19, roster sizes for all sports will be limited.  Once we have a list of registered student athletes, we will look at how we can structure our rosters (including tryouts) to meet all health and safety guidelines. 

PHYSICAL EXAMS- It is an MIAA rule that in order to be eligible to participate in Interscholastic Athletics in Massachusetts, we must have a physical exam form on record in the CHS Athletic Office. The exam is only valid for 13 months from the date it was performed. We understand that many doctors' offices struggled to maintain their exam schedules this past spring/summer and many held exams using tele-health. Unfortunately, the Mass Dept. of Public Health has ruled that virtual physicals are not acceptable to clear a student athlete for athletic participation. Acceptable physical reports may be emailed to the athletic office or uploaded as part of the FamilyID registration process. 

TRANSPORTATION Policy- CHS has made a temporary change to our policy on transportation to/from away athletic contests.  As has always been the case, CHS will provide bus transportation to/from away contests.  However, this winter- parents/guardians may grant permission (as part of the online registration process explained below) for their student athlete to be transported to/from away contests in two additional ways:

1. Parent/Guardian or immediate, household family member may transport them.
2. Legally licensed student athlete may transport themselves and any siblings.  

Note- A student athlete who has been granted permission for the alternative transportation, may take the bus to some contests while not using it for others. 

REGISTRATION- Online registration will be open from Monday, November 30th thru Sunday, December 6, 2020.  NO LATE registrations will be accepted as once we identify those looking to tryout for teams, we will begin planning for how to safely run these tryouts/practices given the number of student athletes interested.  A parent/guardian must register a student athlete during the registration window.  To register- visit our registration page of the CHS Athletics Website. 

SPECTATORS- In accordance with the Hockmock League, it will be the practice of the CHS Athletic Department this winter to follow the following protocols in regards to spectators at our athletic contests:

• Certain venues will NOT allow ANY spectators at contests. This includes Metro-South Gymnastics Academy and the Blue Hills Regional pool. 
• The CHS gymnasium and the Metropolis Ice Rink will only allow two immediate family members of each student athlete to attend our home contests. NO AWAY fans will be allowed admission to any Hockomock League venue. 

QUESTIONS/CONCERNS- If you have any questions about CHS Athletics or registration for fall sports in particular, don't hesitate to contact us at ericksond@cantonma.org, 781-821-5050 x6.

GO DOGS!

Update on Winter Sports Season- November 21, 2020

As we enter into Thanksgiving week we look to pass the athletics baton from fall sports to winter sports.  Like with everything else this year, it may not look exactly like it has in the past, but good news abounds as we will be offering many winter sports this year as well as moving some others to later seasons this school year. 

On Friday, November 20th, the MIAA released their Winter Sports modifications and parameters. Here are the big take-aways:

Sports Offerings- The following CHS sports programs will be offered in the winter season:

• Gymnastics
• Boys Swimming
• Girls Swimming
• Boys Basketball
• Girls Basketball
• Boys Ice Hockey
• Girls Ice Hockey
  

Sports Moved to Later Seasons- The following CHS sports programs will move to later seasons:

• Wrestling- Spring Season
• Indoor Track- Fall II Season
• Winter Cheer- Spring Season

Season Dates- 

First Day of Practices/Tryouts- Monday, December 14th, 2020

First Day of Contests- Week of January 4th, 2021

Last Day of Winter Season- Sunday, February 21st

Sports Modifications-

Each sport has had modifications made to their rules/practices in order to ensure the safety of our athletes. You can find all of these modifications and other important information on the MIAA's Covid Taskforce Page. 

Hockomock League and Local Protocols- Now that the MIAA has set the basic modifications, the Hockomock League will be deciding on how best to implement these within the League's schools.  The league will be working collaboratively on issues around how our student athletes can compete this winter in the safest way possible.

Finally, after the Hockomock League has set protocols for our sports and schools, our local Board of Health must approve CHS Athletics protocols for winter sports. This process will happen very quickly. 

Winer Sports Registration- Keep an eye out on this blog for upcoming information on winter sports registration. It is expected that registration will take place during the first half of the week of November 30th.  It will be a SHORT WINDOW, so please keep your eyes open so you don't miss out!

Message from the AD- Bulldogs this fall did a tremendous job following all of our protocols around social distancing, mask-wearing and hand washing.  They have set the tone for the rest of the year. With Covid-19 cases on the rise in the state and nation, it is SO IMPORTANT that our student athletes follow all protocols leading up to our December 14th start date. If you are training, practice social distancing and wear a mask. If you are gathering together socially, practice social distancing and wear a mask. If you are in a car together, wear a mask. We need to all do all we can to ensure that we will be able to enjoy the winter season that has been given to us. Let's go Bulldogs. Let's be great!

If you have any questions regarding CHS Athletics, please feel fee to email us at ericksond@cantonma.org. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Girls Soccer set to compete for Hock Challenge Cup

After a crazy couple of weeks, the CHS Girls Soccer team will face off against 2020 Hock Cup Champion Oliver Ames on Thursday, November 19th at 5:00pm at CHS in what is being dubbed the "Challenge Cup."

This will be the team's 3rd match up of the season and should be a great one. 

Spectators will be limited to IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS of CHS Girls Varsity Soccer Players and must be limited to an average of 2 spectators/student athlete. NO SPECTATORS will be allowed admittance--- This includes the parking lot adjacent to the field. There will be NO VIEWING area outside of our gates so please do not attend this event if you are not an immediate family member of a Bulldog girls varsity Soccer Player. 

LIVE STREAM info- Enjoy the game in the warmth of your own home! 

Could be several streams going out at the same time. Try these options-

1. Periscope.tv.....channels "SaeedSports" or "CHS_GirlsSoccer"

2. Canton Community Cable could be posting a stream right before gametime- visit www/cantoncommunitytv.org

Go Dogs!

Hockomock Post-Season Updates- Nov. 12, 2020

It's been quite an eventful post-season for the Bulldogs.  Here is an update below on where everyone stands:

GOLF- Members of our Hockomock League Davenport Champion Bulldogs participated in the Hock Golf Championships last week. Our Bulldogs finished 5th in this Championship.

CROSS COUNTRY- Our XC teams will compete in the Hock XC Championship meet this Saturday in Attleboro. 

FIELD HOCKEY- Varsity will face North Attleboro on Friday, November 13th at 4:15pm at CHS in their final game of the season. JV season is now completed. 

GIRLS SOCCER- Will face Foxboro High School on Thursday, November 19th at 5:00pm at CHS.  The winner of this game will face the winner of the Hockomock Cup on Friday, November 20th at higher seed's facility- time TBA. For more information, check out today's Hockmomock League Press Release. 

BOYS SOCCER- Will travel to Milford to face the Kelley-Rex Champion on Friday, November 13th at 6:30pm in the Hockomock Cup Semi-Final.  JV will travel to Milford as well for a 6:15 game. 

SPECTATORS-As has been the case all year Canton spectators will NOT be allowed admittance at away contests. For our home contest, only family members of team members may attend. 

LIVE STREAM INFO-

BOYS SOCCER- Canton can head to MilfordTV.net and scroll down our home page until they find the window with our Educational Channel Live Stream to tune in. We also have a mobile app available for both iphone and android users. People can just search Milford TV in their app store to download the app and then they can stream our Educational Channel feed right from their mobile device to watch the game on Friday.

FIELD HOCKEY vs. NA- Periscope.tv......"SaeedSports" 

Hockomock Cup Update- Wednesday, November 11

Today we honor all of our Veterans. Thanks you for allowing us to live our lives and enjoy our freedoms. 

Boys Soccer- Seeded #2 in the Davenport hosts #3 Kelley-Rex team King Philip in Quarter-Final round action at CHS today at 4:00pm.  Covid-19 Spectator Policy in affect- only family members of home fans allowed.  The game will be streamed live at periscope on "SaeedSports" or at Canton Community Television. 

Field Hockey- Seeded #2 in the Davenport fell to Attleboro on Tuesday night, 3-2. They move on to a final game of the season which will most likely be played on Friday. The will play the loser of the Franklin- North Attleboro game.

Girls Soccer- Won Davenport Division of the Hock for first time since 2012. Seeded #1 in the Davenport. Quarter-Final game with Attleboro has been canceled. 

Field Hockey and Soccer Teams ready for Hock Cup Action

The Field Hockey, Boys Soccer and Girls Soccer teams have all qualified for the Hockomock Cup which will begin this week. The top four teams in each division of the Hockomock (Davenport and Kelley-Rex) all qualify for this battle for Hock bragging rights. The Bulldog Girls Soccer team is seeded #1 after earning their first League Title since 2011. The Boys Soccer team and the Field Hockey team each finished with the #2 seeds in the Davenport, earning home games in the first round as well. 

Click Here for General Info about the Hockomock Cup. 

Below is the info on each of the games:

FIELD HOCKEY-  Seeded #2 in the Davenport and will host the #3 seed from the Kelley-Rex, Attleboro, on Tuesday, November 10th at 5:15pm.  JV will face Attleboro prior to the Varsity game (3:30pm). 

GIRLS SOCCER- Seeded #1 in the Davenport and will host the #4 seed from the Kelley-Rex, Attleboro, on Wednesday, November 11th at 6:30pm. JV will travel to face Attleboro on Nov. 10th at 3:45pm

BOYS SOCCER- Seeded #2 in the Davenport and will host the #3 seed from the Kelley-Rex, King Philip, on Wednesday, November 11th at 4:00pm. JV will face King Philip prior to the Varsity game (1:45pm). 

Second Round Cup games are expected to be held on Friday, Nov. 13th or Saturday, Nov. 14th. 

SPECTATOR and LIVE STREAM Info-

Due to Canton remaining a "red" town, we are required to limit our total number of spectators per game to 50. ONLY FAMILY members of rostered CHS players will be permitted to attend these games AND only two spectators/family.  

All of the home varsity cup games will be live-streamed at periscope.tv or the periscope app.  Girls Soccer games at "Chs_girlssoccer" while FH and Boys Soccer are at "SaeedSports." You can also catch the game with commentary on Canton Community Television- www.cantoncommunitytv.org

XC and Field Hockey moved to Sunday

Due to the unexpectedly high snow totals, the Cross Country meet and the Field Hockey games scheduled for Saturday at Oliver Ames have been pushed to Sunday. 

JV Field Hockey- 9:30am

Varsity Field Hockey- 11:00am

Cross Country Meet- 2:00pm

Bulldog fans....please continue to respect the rules of our other league schools and do not attend these contests. 

ALL In-Person Bulldog Athletics off today

Due to the ridiculous October Snow out there (4-5 inches and counting on the turf as of now), all afternoon and evening CHS Athletics activities are canceled today. Coaches may hold virtual meetings, etc., but nothing in-person. 

All Bulldogs are encouraged to reach out to their coaches for any weekend updates. 

No word on Saturday's Field Hockey games and Cross Country meets at Oliver Ames as of this time. 

Update on Winter Sports Information

As we approach the end of October, we celebrate the incredible play of our fall teams and we begin to shift our attention to Bulldog winter athletics.  This blog entry is designed to provide some- although limited- information on what lies ahead for CHS Athletics.

What do we know for certain about the winter sports season?  Not much as of today but we expect the State to release information in the coming weeks.  The Hockomock League Athletic Directors have been meeting weekly to plan for winter sports action.  We do know that the MIAA is working incredibly hard to provide whatever opportunities are possible for our student athletes as we head into the winter.  We also know that the MIAA has voted to eliminate any state tournaments for the winter season.  Although this is disappointing for all of us, it does provide us with a bit more flexibility to provide some sort of a season, as we did for fall.  

When can we expect more definitive information about the winter sports season?  The Dept. of Secondary and Elementary Education (DESE) and the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) have been working with each other and with the Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) to share guidelines with local school systems in regards to what sports may be offered when and under what modifications.  It is expected that this critical information will be released by the middle of November.

At that point, CHS Athletics would amend our safety protocols and guidelines after consulting with the Canton Board of Health.  

Bottom line- We are not able to determine what sports will look like this winter until we hear from our governing body- the MIAA. That is expected by mid-November.  We realize that this is a very tight time-table, and we will work hard on our end to be prepared for whatever guidelines come our way.  

Additionally- Although the MIAA will set guidelines and expectations for all member schools, it is quite likely that they will grant each League a great deal of leeway on how to best navigate the winter months (particularly from Thanksgiving through New Years).  What is good for leagues in the western part of the state may not be what is best for the Hockomock League. This is consistent with the approach we took this fall season.  

In Closing- We will always make decisions around our athletic program offerings and protocols with the health and safety of our student athletes as our top priority. 

As is always the case- if you have any other specific questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to the CHS Athletic Office at ericksond@cantonma.org. 

Halloween Bulldogs

A quick message from Bulldog Athletics as we head into the Halloween Weekend:

Our Fall season has been a great success thus far with lots of important action continuing into next week and hopefully beyond.

I am so proud of how our Bulldogs have worked together during this unique fall to put team first by embracing our health and safety protocols both on the field and socially.  We need to keep that going as we hit the homestretch in the fall and look towards a winter season.  With that in mind, there will be many temptations this weekend to break from health and safety recommendations as we celebrate Halloween.  Please enjoy your Halloween but please do it in ways that don't jeopardize the health and safety of yourself and others, or in ways that could put our athletic seasons at risk. 

Celebrate while remembering to:

• Socially distance
• Wear a mask
• Avoid indoor get-togethers
• Avoid large groups
• Wash your hands often

Let's continue to keep our eye on the ball and keep our community safe and our programs running. 

Go Dogs!

Field Hockey games postponed

 The JV and Varsity Field Hockey games at Oliver Ames scheduled for today have been postponed due to the weather. 

The games will be played on Saturday, October 31st. JV at 10:00am and Varsity at 11:30am. 

Go dogs!

Golf, Field Hockey, Girls Soccer and Boys Soccer remain unbeaten

We are more than 60% of the way through our fall season and as of today, our Golf, Field Hockey, Girls Soccer and Boys Soccer teams are unbeaten sporting a combined record of 24-0-2.   The Boys Soccer team is the only team in the group to drop points (2 ties).  All four teams head into the homestretch of the season with some of the toughest competition lying ahead.

Golf- 8-0-0

Field Hockey- 6-0-0

Girls Soccer- 6-0-0

Boys Soccer- 4-0-2

Watch Bulldog fall action- updated Monday, November 2nd

This week's Streaming Information-

HOME GAME-

11/2/2020- Boys Soccer vs. Foxboro at CHS at 6:00pm on Periscope.tv or Periscope app at"SaeedSports"

11/4/2020- Girls Soccer vs. Foxboro at CHS at 6:00pm on Periscope.tv or Periscope app at "SaeedSports"

11/5/2020- Field Hockey vs. Foxboro at CHS at 3:45pm on Periscope.tv or Periscope app at "SaeedSports"

AWAY GAMES-

11/2/2020- Girls Soccer AT Foxboro at 3:45pm on Periscope.tv or Periscope app at "CHS_Girlssoccer"

11/3/2020- Field Hockey AT Foxboro at 3:45pm on https://www.fcatv.org/live

11/4/2020- Boys Soccer AT Foxboro at 3:45pm on https://www.fcatv.org/live 

Although not everyone can attend our Field Hockey and Soccer games at CHS's WWII Veterans' Memorial Field this fall, CHS Media guru Ed McDonough has assembled an amazing crew, in conjunction with Canton Community Television to provide live streaming AND archived footage of games. 

Many other towns are offering live streams to our community so we can keep up with on the road Bulldog action. 

The streaming platforms may change as the season moves on but for now you can find home games at periscope.tv or the periscope app at "Weletthedogsout". 

After most home games are completed, you can watch the high quality production at Canton Community Television's website.

Statement on CHS Athletics given Canton's Red Covid Assessment

On Wednesday, October 14th, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health released its weekly Covid-19 town-by-town assessment map, placing Canton in the "Red Zone."

Two weeks ago, the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) released the following statement to member schools regarding interscholastic athletics in regards to the DPH town-by-town assessment map:

"Red status alone does not constitute a pause in participation by a member school. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has stated that 'three consecutive weeks of metrics' should be used to determine learning models for schools. Similarly, the District Athletic Committees (DAC) of the MIAA recommends the same for high school interscholastic athletics in consultation with AND with permission of the local department of health. The DAC will not determine the athletic participation level or restrictions based upon the community color coding."

Canton High School Athletics has been working closely with CPS administration as well as the Canton Board of Health throughout our athletics re-opening to ensure the safest possible operating of CHS Athletics and we will continue to do so as we move forward under this new color-coded designation.  Our CHS Athletics Covid-19 Guidelines can be found at our website with other important Covid-19 information. 

As the DESE and DAC statements suggest, we will continue to work with the Canton Board of Health to evaluate our situation as we move forward. 

The fall season is off to a great start with more than 200 student athletes proudly competing.  We are committed to continuing to follow all protocols to provide the safest, healthiest and comprehensive educational athletics experience we possibly can. 

Go Bulldogs. 

All Bulldog Athletics practices, contests and trainings Postponed today

All CHS Athletics in-person actives are postponed today- Tuesday, October 13th. 

This includes the following:

• Cross Country meet at Sharon
• Field Hockey games vs Sharon
• All Fall Sports Practices
• The Strength and Conditioning Program as Speed program. 

The Cross Country meet at Sharon has been postponed to Wednesday, October 14th at 3:45 at Deborah Sampson Park in Sharon

There have been a total reshuffling of the Field Hockey games vs. Sharon this week. They will be played as follows:

• Wednesday, October 14th- Field Hockey AT Sharon Middle School-Varsity at 3:45 and JV at 5:15pm
• Thursday, October 15th- Field Hockey AT CHS vs. Sharon- Varsity at 3:45 and JV at 5:15pm

Please revisit our Blog in the coming days as the schedule could continue to be adjusted. 

Booster Club Ramping Back Up

After a very unique spring, summer and early fall, the CHS Athletics Booster Club is looking to return to the important work of supporting our CHS student athletes.  Over the past 6 months, it's been a bit unclear what role the Booster Club could/should play during the Covid-19 pandemic.  Things are now coming into focus and we are looking to kick off the 2020-21 school year for the CHS Athletic Booster Club!

The CHS Athletic Department will be hosting an informational Zoom Meeting  on behalf of the CHS Athletic Booster Club on Tuesday, October 13th at 7:00pm.  We will be discussing the year ahead, memberships, corporate sponsorships, fundraising, how to support our student athletes during this unusual year and how to get involvement from more Bulldog families! 

New parents welcome and are encouraged to come to just listen or to get involved!

Please consider joining us for this important Zoom!

Danny Erickson is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: CHS Athletic Booster Club Zoom

Time: Oct 13, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84211817707?pwd=VVZWZWJiOWZsN1A1Um41RnJ4dlh6Zz09

Meeting ID: 842 1181 7707

Passcode: 2iZfTU

Remaining Week's Action- resulting from reschedules

Still plenty of Bulldog action remaining this week as we head into the long weekend. See below for details. 

The home games are being run following our Spectator Guidelines which state that only FAMILY MEMBERS of our CANTON student athletes in the game may attend. We must also average 2 spectators per student athlete. Please be mindful of this. NO SPECTATORS from the visiting side will be admitted.  

All spectators must fill out our CHS Athletics Self Health Screen found here PRIOR to admittance. It is MUCH easier for our staff and for our spectators if you do this PRIOR to arriving at CHS. 

Thank you for your understanding as we continue to work for the health and safety of our student athletes, staff and spectators. 

Both of the Varsity Home Games listed below will be LIVE STREAMED for any fans out there who are not able to attend. See below for details. 

Thursday, October 8th

Golf (3-0) vs. Stoughton at Easton CC at 3:00pm 

Field Hockey vs. Stoughton at CHS- Varsity (1-0) at 3:45 and JV at 5:30pm 

Varsity game streamed on periscope.tv or periscope app at "Weletthedogsout"

Friday, October 9th

Girls Soccer vs. Stoughton at CHS- Varsity (1-0) at 6:00pm 

Varsity game streamed on periscope.tv or periscope app at "chs_girlssoccer"

Wednesday Weather Postponements

 Due to expected dangerous weather in the area the following changes have been made to today's athletic schedule:

• Golf vs. Stoughton at Easton CC has been postponed to later in the week. Stay tuned for updates. 
• Girls JV and Varsity Soccer games against Stoughton at CHS have been postponed to Friday. Same times. 
• Boys JV and Varsity Soccer games at Stoughton are ON and will be kicking off at 3:30pm.

Streaming Information- Updated here for each streamed event - week of 10/14/2020

 Please revisit this blog entry for the most up-to-date streaming info on any event that is being live-streamed. 

CHS Girls Varsity Soccer games this week (on Wednesday 10/14 and Friday 10/16) with Sharon will be streamed live at www.periscope.tv/chs_girlssoccer or on the periscope app- Chs_girlssoccer. Thanks to Red Costello for providing this amazing coverage!

The CHS Boys Varsity Soccer game on Friday, Oct. 16th and the Varsity Field Hockey game on Thursday, October 15th will both be streamed live at www.periscope.tv/weletthedogsout or on the periscope app- weletthedogsout. Thanks to the CHS Athletic Booster Club for sponsoring this amazing coverage!

Girls Volleyball Info Meeting

There will be a brief but important meeting for any girl at CHS looking to come out for the Volleyball team this winter (Feb-April). 

The meeting will take place on Wednesday, October 7th at 5:45 on the field behind C-Building at CHS.  Reminder to all in attendance that you must following all social distancing and face covering protocols. 

New players welcome!

If you are playing a fall sport currently, and you have a conflict, please attend your fall sport commitment and then reach out to coach Cawley to let her know you are interested. 

Any questions- contact coach Cawley- patriciabcawley@gmail.com

Streaming Live Bulldog Action- Updated with viewing details!

Given the limitations around spectators at our games this fall, we in Bulldog Athletics have been working hard at providing as much video alternatives as possible. 

We are going to begin that today with LIVE STREAMING of both our Girls Varsity Soccer game at Stoughton and our Boys Varsity Soccer game at CHS. 

Please bear with us as we attempt to implement this.  We fully expect some technical difficulties but we are committed to providing this. 

Check back on this blog entry later today for specific directions on how to watch these games LIVE- from the comfort of your own home!  We hope to have the streaming info out roughly an hour before each of the games. 

The home games will also be available for online viewing within a day or two of the contest. 

10-5-2020- Girls Varsity Soccer at Stoughton at 3:45pm- LIVE STREAM INFO- Live on Periscope at www.periscope.tv/chs.girlssoccer.  The event will not show up as an option until right before kickoff. 

10/5/2020- Boys Varsity Soccer at CHS vs. Stoughton at 6:00pm- LIVE STREAM INFO- Live on Periscope on the Channel- Weletthedogsout- Upload the periscope app to your phone or tablet or you can also view on laptop/desktop at www.periscope.tv and search for the Weletthedogsout Channel.  The event will not show up on Periscope until gametime. 

Lots of Bulldog Action coming up this week! Important Spectator Info included

 Last week our Golf team got the fall season rolling with two BIG wins over Davenport foe Foxboro. 

This week, the Golf team is joined by Field Hockey, Boys and Girls Cross Country and Boys and Girls Soccer in facing neighboring rival Stoughton.  

Here is the lineup!

Monday- Girls Soccer at Stoughton (3:45pm) and Boys Soccer vs Stoughton at CHS turf (JV at 3:45, V at 6:00pm)

Tuesday- Field Hockey at Stoughton (V at 3:45, JV at 5:30), Boys and Girls Cross Country hosts Stoughton at Pequitside Farm at 3:45pm and Golf hosts Stoughton at BHCC (3:30pm)

Wednesday- Boys Soccer at Stoughton (3:45) and Girls Soccer vs. Stoughton at CHS turf (JV at 3:45 V at 6:00pm) and Golf faces Stoughton at Easton CC (3:30)

Thursday- Field Hockey hosts Stoughton at CHS turf (V at 3:45, JV at 5:30pm)

SPECTATOR PROTOCOLS Given the challenges associated with keeping our events safe and healthy, the following spectator protocols are in place for our fall contests:

GOLF Matches- Typically a sport with limited spectators.  This fall, we will be asking that our golfers compete without any spectators. 

CROSS COUNTRY Meets- We ask that no spectators attend away Cross Country meets. We also ask that NO Spectators enter the lower field area at Pequitside Farm at home meets. We ask anyone observing the race from other portions of Pequitside please socially distance and wear a face covering. Please note that no parking will be available at the lower lot at Pequitside. 

FIELD HOCKEY and SOCCER GAMES-

• We ask that NO CHS spectators attend any AWAY Field Hockey or Soccer games as the Hockomock League schools have agreed to only allow home fans at these contests. 
• For HOME Field Hockey and Soccer games, we are allowing up to 50 spectators.  In order to achieve this, we ask that only immediate family members attend AND that we average only 2/rostered student athlete.  
• These expectations/guidelines apply to JV and Varsity games. 
• All spectators at CHS Soccer and Field Hockey games must complete our CHS Athletics Daily Health Screener prior to being admitted. Please try to do this ahead of time. It only takes a minute. Click Here for Daily CHS Health Screener link. 
• When arriving at CHS WWII Veterans' Memorial Field, all spectators will have to check in.  They will be asked who they are there for (which student athlete) and we will be confirming that they completed the screener. 
• Once admitted, all spectators (family groups) must remain socially distanced from all other spectators AND wear a face covering. 
• Gates open 30 minutes prior to kickoff. Please expect to wait a couple of minutes for the entrance process. 
  
  
  

GAME STREAMING options-

Given the spectator limitations, we are hard at work in trying to provide as much video footage of games as possible. We are even planning on live streams of many of our contests. We will share these links with Bulldog fans everywhere through this blog, Twitter and other social media platforms.  Keep your eyes open!

Thank you for your patience and support!

Bulldog Strength and Conditioning Program starting up Friday

The CHS Strength and Conditioning Program will resume this Friday with training sessions for non-Fall sports athletes.  If you are not currently playing a Fall sport you can register on Family ID for the program and upon registration you will be provided a link that will allow you to access the sign-up form.

Please note that sessions will be capped at a certain amount of participants due to health and safety concerns.  Once a session is full it will be indicated as such and will close.  We will be transitioning sessions into the weight room setting and as a result masks are REQUIRED during the entire session.  Students will also be required to complete the on-line Covid-19 pre-screen before arriving to their session.  Thank you for registering and we look forward to seeing you for training.

CLICK HERE to register. 

Information on Transportation to Away Contests

Hello Bulldogs!

Given the many challenges we are all facing as we embark on our 2020/21 athletic year, we have made some changes to our policies and practices around transportation to away athletic contests. 

At the bottom of this entry you will find links to important document regarding our transportation policies for the foreseeable future. 

Here are some of the big takeaways that student athletes and parents should know:

1. When a student athlete was registered online through FamilyID by a parent or guardian, a question was asked if the parent/guardian granted permission for for their child to be transported to an away contest by a household member or themselves (if legally licensed.) Most student athletes were granted this permission.  

2. If a student athlete will NOT be taking the bus to a particular away contest, they must coordinate that with their coach.  A coach MUST KNOW AHEAD of time of who will be on the bus and who will not be.

3. The school buses that we use do not have room for more than 23 total passengers. This includes student athletes, coaches, managers, etc. Therefore, in some cases, some teammates may need to transport themselves to an away contest. The coach will coordinate this. 

4.Please be aware that driving your child to an away contest does not grant you entrance into that venue to watch the game. The Hockomock League is NOT allowing away fans to attend our contests this fall. 

Click Here for Transportation Letter to Bulldog student athletes and parents. 

Click Here for Temporary Transportation Policy. 

Fall Sports Kick Off Monday! Lots of important info in this blog entry!

Hello Bulldog Nation! After what seems like an eternity, Bulldog student athletes will officially be hitting the fields on Monday- September 21st.  After a long and exhaustive effort put in by so many, we are ready! That's not to say we won't have some challenges ahead but collectively, we can do this!

Below is important information for ALL registered fall athletes.

This is MUST READ info for Monday!

Sport Specific info can be found at the bottom 

CHS Athletics Self-Screen Health Questionnaire- 
As part of our CHS Athletics Covid-19 Guidelines, all who participate in CHS Athletics activities (games, meets, practice, meetings, etc.) must complete our CHS Athletics Self-Screen Health Questionnaire DAILY- and as close as possible to the time you are actually participating in CHS athletics that day.  The questionnaire must be completed by student athletes, coaches, referees, spectators and other game officials.  We ask that everyone do their part to keep us all safe/healthy, by making this daily task a priority. 

The link to the Self-Screen can be found below.  This screen is separate and in addition to, the student screen needed to attend school. 

So- ALL student athletes attending tryouts/practices on Monday, must complete the screening prior to participating. Your presence at practice will indicate to our coaching staff that you have completed the screening. The CHS Athletic office will be confirming that forms have been filled out on a daily basis. 

Please consider saving the link on your phone for easy access daily. 

Click Here for the Daily Screen. 

Social Distancing/Face Coverings/Arrival Procedures- 

• Student athletes may not arrive at a CHS athletic practice more than 15 minutes prior to the start. If you do arrive earlier than that we ask you to REMAIN IN YOUR CAR. Do NOT congregate in groups in the parking lot. 
• Student athletes must wear a properly worn face covering while arriving at practice. Be sure to have a back-up.  We will have back-up masks available as well.
• The only exception to the face covering expectations is when a written doctor's note is presented to the Athletic Trainer, stating that there is a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a face covering. 
• ALWAYS practice social distancing while at practices and games. Avoid contact with other student athletes and coaches. No "high fives," "fist bumps", or "pats on the back."

Drinking Water-

• All student athletes are expected to arrive at all practices/games/meets/matches with their own, individual water bottle. Be sure to bring enough. A 16 oz bottle of water is typically nowhere near enough water for a practice session or game. 
• Be sure your water bottle is clearly labeled. 
• The Athletic Trainer will have water available for emergencies only. 

Other Important Info-

• Only student athletes who have been registered to participate and have provided an up-to-date physical exam to the Athletic Office may attend Monday. 
• Please bring mosquito repellent with you to any evening sessions. 

SPORT SPECIFIC INFORMATION FOR MONDAY

FIELD HOCKEY- Registered field hockey players should arrive at turf field on Monday,September 21st at 6pm. Please wear reversible jersey or bring light and dark jersey. Please bring both sneakers and cleats, stick, mouth guard, labeled water bottle. Session will run 6-8:30. Any questions contact Chrissy O’Connor via email rsd.oconnor@gmail.com.

GOLF- Anyone registered for golf please check your school email for information about specific tryout dates and times. Freshman, sophomores and anyone new to the team will start tryouts on Monday (9/21). Any returning juniors or seniors will start tryouts on Tuesday (9/22). Any questions contact Mike Barucci baruccim@cantonma.org

BOYS SOCCER- All registered Boys Soccer candidates should report to the lower grass fields at CHS for a three-hour session on Monday.  The session will run from 3:30pm-6:30pm. Please wear a white or light colored shirt. We will run 2-miles on lower campus as well as the "deck of cards." The remainder of the session will be scrimmages and other soccer activities. Any questions contact Danny Erickson- ericksond@cantonma.org

GIRLS SOCCER- All registered Girls Soccer candidates should report to the turf field at CHS for a 3:00-5:30pm session on Monday. Please wear white or light colored shirt. Keep an eye out for a separate email from Coach Senyonjo. Any questions- contact coach Senyonjo at edris29@gmail.com

Boys and Girls Cross Country- All registered Cross Country runners should report to the field behind C-Building at CHS on Monday at 3:15pm for our first practice session. Be sure to review everything above in this blog. Be ready to run! Any questions- contact coach Hiltz- hiltzd@cantonma.org

Fall 2020 Sports Season Registration Now Open

It has certainly been a long and winding road, but today we are excited to be officially opening registration for the 2020 Fall Sports Season.  As has been explained on this blog recently, this fall will look incredibly different than most every fall before it. Due to the guidelines set by the state, DESE, MIAA and through decisions at both the Hockomock League and local level, we will be offering the following sports this fall:

• Golf
• Boys and Girls Cross Country
• Field Hockey 
• Boys and Girls Soccer

Our other traditional fall sports will be moved to a newly created season running from late-February thru mid-April. This includes the seasons of our highly successful Cheer squad, our incredible Unified Basketball squad, our defending State Champion Girls Volleyball team and our two-time defending Hockomock Davenport Champion Football team. This fall will mark the first time in nearly a century that CHS will not line up a team on the gridiron this fall.  Our competitive hearts go out to all members of all these teams who must put their seasons' hopes and dreams on hold....for now. 

Registration information for our fall season can be found at the bottom of this blog entry.  However, it is important that all CHS fall athletics families read important details below PRIOR to registering. 

FALL SEASON DATES- The first day of fall sports is Monday, September 21st.  It will include a two-week pre-season (golf will be slightly less).  The season will wrap up prior to the Friday before Thanksgiving. 

The sports that we are able to offer this fall will all play under new, significant modifications and guidelines.  Highlights of these guidelines include:

• All participants must wear a face covering when unable to socially distance (this includes during play)
• All participants must complete a Covid-19 screening daily.
• No more than 25 people may work together at a practice. This will limit roster sizes. 
• No more than 22 people may be on a school bus. This has caused us to temporarily amend our transportation policy. 
• No more than 50 people may attend any Hockomock League contest as spectators. This has caused us to limit spectators to 2 per/family and only at home contests. 

Details of our guidelines as well as sport specific modifications to our sports can be found at the links below:

CHS Athletics Covid-19 Guidelines

MIAA Golf Modifications

MIAA Cross Country Modifications

MIAA Field Hockey Modifications

MIAA Soccer Modifications

The CHS Athletic Department has been working hard to institute practices, guidelines and protocols that will ensure the safest possible experience for our student athletes under these circumstances. We are incredibly confident that we are ready to provide an educational, competitive and SAFE/HEALTHY interscholastic athletic experience for all of our Bulldogs!

ATHLETIC USER FEE- Due to all of the changes associated with this season's athletic experience, the CPS School Committee recently approved and adjustment to the user fee. The fee for playing a fall sport this year will be $160.  You have the option to pay the fee as you register online, but you don't have to. You can always go back and register in the week or so after tryouts. 

GATE FEES- Given the limited number of spectators allowed at our contests this fall, there will be no admission cost charged at any contest. 

ROSTER SIZES- It is always our goal to get as many students involved in our programs as is possible while still providing a great educational experience. We will be guided by that again this fall.  However, due to new guidelines related to Covid-19, roster sizes for all sports will be limited.  Once we have a list of registered student athletes, we will look at how we can structure our rosters (including tryouts) to meet all health and safety guidelines. 

PHYSICAL EXAMS- It is an MIAA rule that in order to be eligible to participate in Interscholastic Athletics in Massachusetts, we must have a physical exam form on record in the CHS Athletic Office. The exam is only valid for 13 months from the date it was performed. We understand that many doctors' offices struggled to maintain their exam schedules this spring/summer and many held exams using tele-health. Unfortunately, the Mass Dept. of Public Health has ruled that virtual physicals are not acceptable to clear a student athlete for athletic participation. Acceptable physical reports may be emailed to the athletic office or uploaded as part of the FamilyID registration process. 

TRANSPORTATION Policy- CHS has made a temporary change to our policy on transportation to/from away athletic contests.  As has always been the case, CHS will provide bus transportation to/from away contests.  However, this fall- parents/guardians may grant permission (as part of the online registration process explained below) for their student athlete to be transported to/from away contests in two additional ways:

1. Parent/Guardian or immediate, household family member may transport them.
2. Legally licensed student athlete may transport themselves and any siblings.  

Note- A student athlete who has been granted permission for the alternative transportation, may take the bus to some contests while not using it for others. 

REGISTRATION- Online registration will be open from Tuesday, September 8th thru Sunday, September 13th.  NO LATE registrations will be accepted as once we identify those looking to tryout for teams, we will begin planning for how to safely run these tryouts/practices given the number of student athletes interested.  A parent/guardian must register a student athlete during the registration window.  To register- visit our registration page of the CHS Athletics Website. 

QUESTIONS/CONCERNS- If you have any questions about CHS Athletics or registration for fall sports in particular, don't hesitate to contact us at ericksond@cantonma.org, 781-821-5050 x6.

GO DOGS!

CHS Athletics Update- 8-31-2020

For starters- a quick personal note-  I'd like to acknowledge just how challenging it must be to be a Bulldog student athlete during these uncertain times.  I share in your confusion and yearning for a "normal" start to our athletic year.  This time of year my house is typically filled with a buzz of school, sports and friends- all embarking on a new start. I miss that so much but I can only imagine how extra precious these moments are for our student athletes who are caught in the middle of the impacts of this pandemic.  Although much of the news below is good for many of our student athletes, there are many who are being asked to postpone a season or compete in a game that is very different than they are used to. We are keeping all of our student athletes in mind as we attempt to create the best possible experiences for them all while respecting the seriousness of Covid-19.  We will continue to let this guide all of our decisions as we proceed into this athletic year.  Go Bulldogs!

As the 2020-21 school year is set to begin soon, it seems like each day brings with it more news for our student athletes. Below is an update and some important reminders as we head into September.  All of these updates are based on DESE and MIAA mandates and will ultimately need final, local district approval.

1. HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE PRESS RELEASE- This document provides clarity around several issues of importance to CHS student athletes and families including some clarity around a fall sports start date, what traditional fall sports will begin in September vs. which ones will be postponed to a "Fall 2" season, a determination of "out of season coaching" for the months of September and October, as well as a statement regarding spectators at upcoming fall events.  Please CLICK HERE for this important press release for information on all of these items. 

2. On Friday, August 28th, the MIAA released the approved  SPORTS RULES MODIFICATIONS for the traditional fall sports.  Many of these rules modifications are significant and our student athletes will need to bring a growth mindset to practices and contests this fall as these new rules are implemented.  Please CLICK HERE to find the rules modifications. 

3. PHYSICAL EXAMS- The MIAA recently shared an update from the Mass Dept of Health with a clarification on student athlete eligibility in regards to an updated physical exam.  The DPH has decided NOT to waive any part of the existing physical exam rule for eligibility of a student athlete.  This means that in order to participate in CHS Athletics, each student athlete must provide the CHS Athletic Office with an updated physical exam.  The student athlete is eligible to participate in CHS athletics for 13 months from the date of the exam and becomes ineligible to participate on the following day.  FURTHERMORE- DPH has declared that VIRTUAL well visits are NOT acceptable for participation in high school athletics. This means that zoom/tele-medical exams will NOT be accepted. Only in-person well-visits (physical exams) will be acceptable.  As a parent who has a child who had a virtual physical with his pediatrician this spring, I realize that this is very challenging news for many families. 

4. REGISTRATION for the CHS Fall Athletics season is EXPECTED to open up on Tuesday, September 8th and run thru Friday, September 11th. This is subject to change and we will update as needed. PLEASE make sure you are prepared to meet the PHYSICAL EXAM requirements listed in #3 above. We realize this is a short window for registration but this is what the current timeline calls for. 

5. CAPTAINS PRACTICES- It has come to our attention that some of our student athletes may be participating in "Captains' Practices."  It is important to clarify that the MIAA does not allow such practices to take place.  Every high school in the state must walk this tightrope between NOT endorsing Captains' Practices and encouraging kids to get together to train and socialize in the off-season.  We are well aware that some of our students have been getting together this summer to train and prepare for upcoming seasons.  Given the social stresses brought on by the pandemic, we are happy to know that our kids are there for each other. However, it is very important that if kids are getting together to play a sport, they are doing so by choice AND that they are following state and local expectations around Covid-19 protocols. They should be socially distancing and when that is not possible, they should be wearing protective face coverings. With the new modifications released this week, it makes sense for them to begin getting used to playing with a face covering as well. 

We are very proud of our student athletes who have navigated these challenging times with the best of intentions. With a  high school season on the horizon, we ask that all of our student athletes double their efforts to ensure that they are following all safety protocols when/if they get together. 

As is always the case, please feel free to reach out to the athletic department with any questions/concerns-

ericksond@cantonma.org

781-821-5050x6