RICHMOND, Va. -- Richmond Public Schools will not field teams for winter sports due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Superintendent Jason Kamras announced the decision Monday in a message to students and families.
"I have recently received a number of questions about whether RPS will have high school and middle school sports this winter. Athletics are important for many reasons: they motivate and inspire, improve student health, and can even lead to college scholarships. I am deeply sensitive to this," Kamras wrote.
He cited the school division's decision to go 100% virtual for the first semester and rapidly rising infection rates for his decision to cancel the winter sports season.
"I recognize this will be disappointing to many students and families. But I believe it's the only option we have if we are to fully honor our commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of our students, families, and staff," Kamras continued.
Winter sports include boys and girls basketball, gymnastics, indoor track, wrestling, and swimming and diving.
