NYSPHSAA cancels winter state championships, postpones high risk sports

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) has announced all winter state championships have been canceled and all high risk sports are postponed until authorization is provided by state officials.

"The Association’s decision to postpone all high-risk sports until authorization is granted was reinforced by the increase in infection and hospitalization rates across the State," a release states.

Officials say the high risk sports that are postponed until authorization is provided are: basketball, boys lacrosse, competitive cheerleading, football, ice hockey, volleyball, and wrestling.

NYSPHSAA also announced all winter state championships have been canceled.

“When examining the feasibility of Winter State Championships, it became apparent that travel and overnight accommodations would create a unique challenge for our member schools,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “At this time, we must prioritize maximizing student participation without a focus on championship events.”

The winter state championships that have been canceled are: bowling, basketball, boys swimming & diving, competitive cheerleading, gymnastics, indoor track & field, ice hockey, skiing, and wrestling.

Officials say low and moderate risk regular season sports continue to be permitted and the 2021 spring state championships remain scheduled at this time.