Wildcats working on keeping their distance
Football is a game that's not usually played at a safe distance. So, high school teams are working around the social distancing restrictions as they return to practice.
El Dorado head coach Steven Jones admitted the rules probably impact the defensive players more than on the offensive side.
“We're having to keep our distance. You can get the guy moving but you can't really incorporate like a pass skel because they have to, basically, practice by themselves. It is tough, probably more tough on that side of the ball to get a gauge on what you're doing,” Jones said.
“Offensively, we're able to get good reps in, keeping our distance catching and throwing. Offensive line is kind of in the same boat as defense. You're not able to block dummies right now or make any contact. The toughest position groups, right now, would be your offensive and defensive line because you're really restricted on what you can do and then linebacker. It's hard to get a grip on what they're able to do.”
Jones said the team is not allowed to use blocking dummies but the players can push sleds in the indoor facility because pushing a sled is considered a weight workout.
Sled and weights and any equipment used must be wiped down and cleaned after each time. This is done by the coaches as managers, trainers and filmers are excluded from practice at this time.
“We're restricted on who we can bring in. The coaches are taking care of all that,” said Jones. “Morgan, our athletic trainer, is doing all the check-ins for all the sports. We're screening them, asking all the questions. We have to screen each kid as they come in. Morgan is doing that and she's doing the treatment stuff after practice. As far as in practice goes, the coaches are having to take the time to clean everything up.”
One restriction was lifted this week when the Arkansas Activities Association Board voted to waive the required 2020 summer dead period, which was scheduled for June 21 through July 4. Local school districts have the decsion to observe or waive the dead period.
"Our school district will likely keep the second dead week in place," said Jones, who added athletic director Phillip Lansdell will likely make an official announcement. "We will have voluntary workouts over the first dead week."