On Monday, August 24, twenty-seven schools in the Kansas City metro area voted unanimously to continue with all fall activities that are offered in the Greater Kansas City Suburban Conference (GKCSC). Fall activities include the following sports governed by the conference: Boys and Girls Cross Country, Football, Girls Golf, Boys Soccer, Softball, Boys Swimming and Diving, Girls Tennis, and Volleyball.

Schools cited the importance of health and safety guidelines while participating in upcoming league practices and contests. Individual schools and districts will be sharing with their communities’ ways in which they will be providing safe and healthy environments for students, staff, and spectators at all future fall events.

A statement from the Clay County Public Health Department, which was shared on social media, suggested Clay County school districts choose the new MSHSAA spring season option for fall contact sports. This set off a series of #LetThemPlay rallies throughout the county. The rallies were led by parents who believe the risk of contracting COVID-19 is decreasing, but the longer students are barred from academics and activities, the greater risk of mental health issues occurs.

“What we’re seeing is an extreme rise in teenage depression and suicide,” Kearney parent Chrystan Ferrell stated. “The CDC just reported that our suicide rates have skyrocketed for teenagers as well as drug overdoses. It is important to combat that with activity and connection.”

President of GKCSC’s Executive Directors, Dr. Alan Markley, expressed that he was proud of the work the districts put in to developing guidelines that would keep students and fans safe.

“I am pleased with the outcome of the conference decision, as I feel strongly that the responsible oversight of our member schools will give our student athletes the best opportunity for safe competition,” stated Markley. “Our member schools have worked hard to implement health and safety protocols to keep our students, staff, and fans safe during practices and competitions. From cleaning equipment to precautions associated with safe hydration, to transporting students to and from contests, our schools are considering all factors to safely navigate this important part of our student experience.”

Roster and attendance limitations will be enforced and will be based on health department gathering restrictions from the four-county region along with physical distancing requirements based on the host venue. Specific spectator guidance will be shared by Suburban Conference districts with their communities. The GKC Suburban Conference has developed a list of recommendations for its member schools.

An attempt was made to contact Kearney Activities Director Dave Schwarzenbach for specific details from Kearney School District on Monday, but he was not available for comment.

This is a developing situation and KPGZ will follow this story as news develops.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story