The Maryland State Board of Education approved a request for local school systems (LSS) to start winter sports on December 7, 2020.  The authorization comes with a request from The State Board of Education that all local school systems are, “strongly encouraged to start conditioning opportunities immediately.”  

LSS who decided to start high school fall sports practices on October 7, 2020, may continue to operate within the defined sport seasons that provide 8 or more weeks of competition.  LSS, who opted not to participate beginning October 7, 2020, are strongly encouraged to begin conditioning and will have a first available practice date of December 7, 2020 for winter sports.  

LSS, in accordance with COMAR 13A.06.03, are required to participate within defined sport seasons.  The defined sport seasons established by the State Superintendent of  Schools and State Board of Education shall be adhered to throughout the 2020-2021 academic year.   Any LSS that starts practice after the first available practice date must adhere to the 20-calendar days of preseason practice time.