AUGUSTA — Despite recently outlining what a shortened fall sports season would look like, the Maine Principals’ Association, Maine’s governing body for high school athletics, says it has yet to make a decision on whether fall sports Maine will occur. 

“We are presented with an unprecedented situation with the COVID-19 virus and continue to map the way as we move forward in a hopeful return to some fall activities,” Michael Burnham, MPA’s Executive Director of Interscholastic Division,” said in a Aug. 19 news release. 

There has been no decision made regarding the fall season, Burnham noted. 

Over the past few days, there has been much debate on whether the MPA should follow guidelines established by the Maine Department of Education for physical education classes or guidelines established by the Maine Department of Economic and Community for community gatherings. 

“The MPA Sports Medicine Committee, and individual sport committees, along with guidance from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), will look at each individual activity and a possible safe return for athletes, coaches, officials, and fans,” he said. 

The MPA will continue to work cooperatively with the Maine Department of Education, the Governor’s Office, DHHS, DECD, and the CDC, as well as Maine Athletic Directors, Superintendents, and School Boards to develop possible guidelines regarding school athletics and activities.

“We understand that a decision needs to be made and assure you that one will be made in a timely fashion,” Burnham said. 

Fall sports in Maine include cross country, golf, football, field hockey and soccer.