No spring sports for Beacon, Mariner middle schools

Cape Superintendent Bob Fulton recommended at the Jan. 28 school board meeting that district middle schools not play spring sports in 2021.

Stating it was a difficult decision, Fulton said he understands the benefits of sports and extracurricular activities, but it was most important to focus on limiting the spread of COVID-19 and keeping as many students in school as possible.

Fulton said he discussed pros and cons of having spring sports with the district athletic director, principals at Beacon and Mariner middle schools, and other district personnel. About 400 middle school students typically participate in spring sports, he said.

Middle school students have remained in separate cohorts at school, and district officials were concerned about mixing students. Transportation is also an issue, Fulton said.

High school and middle school athletes did not play in spring 2020 due to the onset of the pandemic. Middle school athletes have not played sports since winter 2020, and middle school athletes who play spring sports have not played since spring 2019.

High school athletes did play fall and winter sports under COVID-19 precautions, and they are expected to play in spring. High school spring sports schedules are available at capevikingssports.com.