GAME POSTPONED DUE TO COVID-19
Monterey player tests positive
“What else can I do? We weren’t left with many options.” — Head coach Henry Lusk
MONTEREY A positive COVID-19 test on the Monterey High varsity football team forced the postponement of Friday’s game with North Salinas High.
The game is tentatively scheduled for Monday at 3:30 p.m. at North Salinas. The junior varsity game has been canceled.
COVID-19 protocols, which include close contacts and unvaccinated players, would have left the Toreadores with just 16 players for Friday’s game.
“We had a kid test positive,” Monterey athletic director Jeff Dellis said. “We just didn’t feel we could play Friday.”
Head coach Henry Lusk found out at 10:20 a.m. when the player informed him in a meeting.
“I called a team meeting at noon and let the players know what the protocols are when someone tests positive,” Lusk said.
Monterey moved up several JV players Friday for practice. The team practiced Saturday to get them up to speed for Monday’s matinee.
“We’re super appreciative of North Salinas working with us,” Dellis said. “Between injuries and COVID protocols, we lost more than half the team.”
This is the second game this week that has been affected by COVID-19. Aptos’ Gabilan Division battle with San Benito was canceled after an outbreak on the ‘Balers.
The Aptos-San Benito game will go down as a non-contest. Monterey’s meeting with the Vikings is still considered a postponement.
“What else can I do?” Lusk said. “We weren’t left with many options. We want to try and play. But I need a day at least to work with these JV kids. I got to make it work.”
Lusk brought up 20 players from the junior varsity team, which is undefeated this year.
“I need players,” Lusk said. “My offensive line is in shambles. I need skilled guys. We are also dealing with injuries.”
The earliest that players who are in COVID-19 protocols can return to practice is Nov. 1 if they test negative, meaning they will miss next Friday’s game with Gonzales.
While unvaccinated players are not allowed to practice until Nov. 1, they will be allowed to attend class, as long as they show no COVID-19 symptoms.
Monterey came into the game having dropped three of its past four games, while North Salinas has won four of its past five. Both teams are battling for a playoff spot.
This is the second time this year North Salinas has had a game canceled or postponed, as its game with Atascadero was canceled on Sept. 10.
There have been 10 games canceled and two postponed in the Pacific Coast Athletic League this fall.