At many independent schools, athletics and recreational activities are critical elements of the school program that help to develop well-rounded young men and women. But the contagious nature of COVID-19 is causing schools to rethink how they can deliver these programs and still prevent the spread of the disease.

This paper outlines:

• Actions schools should consider when developing a plan for competitive athletics and recreational programs
• The specific challenges COVID-19 presents for athletics
• The six risk phases of youth sports and how schools can safely navigate from low-risk activities to higher-risk competitive sports