In an effort to provide a positive athletic experience for all interested student-athletes after the fall sports season was delayed, the Central High School District is offering outdoor intramural/pre-season conditioning programs.

“My hope is that by providing this opportunity, our coaches and student-athletes can once again interact and provide some semblance of normalcy for all participants,” explained Eric Caballero, director of physical education, athletics, drivers education & health.

Kennedy, Mepham and high schools, as well as Grand and Merrick Avenue middle schools started programs in football, soccer, cross-country, tennis, cheer and kickline in early October.

“It was great to see students out on the fields in the afternoon being active and having fun,” said Calhoun Principal Nicole Hollings in her weekly email to parents/guardians.

The primary focus is maintaining the health and safety of coaches and students. All plans are conducted in accordance with guidelines and recommendations made by the NYSDOH, NYSED and the CDC.

“Attendance will be taken daily,” added Caballero. “Students will be required to show their health app screen on their smartphone and temperatures will be checked prior to participation.”

The ultimate goal is to actively plan for three interscholastic sports seasons, as outlined by Section VIII, in January of 2021.