WAOW - Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, SportsWIAA rules on illness could be devastating to athletes

WIAA rules on illness could be devastating to athletes

by Colby Robertson

EDGAR (WAOW) -- This is one of the busiest times of the year for high school sports.

But, for teams looking to go far into the playoffs, an H1N1 outbreak could mean the end of their season.

The WIAA sent out information to all Athletic Directors mid season regarding it's rules on illness come playoff time.

Well that time is here and for many athletes and teams, the rule could have a huge impact on the rest of their season. The classrooms at Edgar High School are full and that 's good new for everyone here, especially Edgar's athletes.

That's because according to WIAA rules, if a school closes its doors because of illness, it must forfeit all sporting events. 

Edgar's Athletic Director Jim Steinke says, "I can see it both ways. You can't push back the playoffs and keep saying this school is closed, we'll wait. This school is closed, we'll wait. Pretty soon you'll be playing football in December."

With state Cross Country this weekend and football playoffs starting Tuesday, closing school could be devastating to Edgar's athletes."

Edgar High School Principal Tim Raymond says, "We have the returning girls state championship team and they're going in on Saturday to defend their title. We've got arguably certainly in Division 6 the number one ranked team in the state coming off runner-up in state. I think the word devastating would just begin to encapsulate what it would do."

That's why the WIAA rule is in the back of many players and coaches minds. School leaders are just crossing their fingers, hoping they can get through the next few weeks without closing school.

Raymond says, "It's a concern, it's an anxiety, but the decision whether to close school or stay open is based on what's best for the student population."

Many teams have taken precautions throughout the season. Things like not sharing water bottles and educating athletes about good hygiene.

The Edgar Athletic Director says this mandate from the WIAA is a first in his 14 years with the school.

Online Reporter: Colby Robertson