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The Nebraska School Activities Association is preparing to begin the 2020 fall sports season as currently scheduled. First practices for football, volleyball, cross country, girls' golf, boys' tennis and softball are set to begin Aug. 10.

"The health and safety of our student participants, coaches and officials has been our priority as we work to provide activities for our member schools," the association said in a press release. "This will not change and modifications may have to be made. Please be understanding and flexible as we continue to try to navigate through this pandemic. We will continue to work with the governor's office, Nebraska Department of Education and the local health departments to make the best decisions for your students and our member schools.

"To be able to start activities on time, we must be leaders when it comes to best practice."

NSAA recommends schools and participants should:

• keep all activities, practices, and scrimmages in-house to avoid interaction with other teams

• wear masks when not in competition

• keep groups small and attendance recorded

• wash your hands regularly

• disinfect equipment regularly

• stay home if you don't feel well

• stay home if someone in your household tests positive for COVID-19.

The ultimate goal is to return to school to have a full, productive, healthy season and create a great experience for our students.

Please, help NSAA and schools-achieve this goal.