Sumter School District yet to decide when student-athletes can begin workouts

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The South Carolina High School League announced at the end of last week the state's public schools could begin summer workouts after having sports shut down since the middle of March due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, it left the door open to the respective districts or schools as to when the workouts can start.

The SCHSL didn't offer a suggested start date, instead saying schools may begin activities when it permits academic group activities on campus.

Sumter School District, which includes Sumter, Crestwood and Lakewood high schools, has yet to determine when it will allow student-athlete workouts.

"We are analyzing the information now regarding when athletics can resume," said Shelly Galloway, the district's executive director of communication and community engagement, in a press release. "We will continue to collaborate with the South Carolina High School League, State Department of Education, and our athletic directors to make a decision."

The South Carolina Independent School Association set Monday for the first day of workouts. Wilson Hall, Laurence Manning Academy, Robert E. Lee Academy and Thomas Sumter Academy all began workouts for football while some did other sports as well.

Clarendon Hall won't begin workouts until at least next week, according to athletic director Ritchie Way.

East Clarendon High football head coach and athletic director Scott Cook said his student-athletes would begin workouts on Monday, June 8. Female athletes will meet from 5 p.m. to 6:15 with the male athletes going from 6:15 to 7:30.

Lee Central High athletic director Roberson Brown and new Scott's Branch football head coach and AD Rodney Barr both said it has yet to be determined when their respective student-athletes will begin workouts.

Manning High football head coach and AD Reggie Kennedy couldn't be reached for comment.

The SCHSL released a 3-stage plan which included a number of restrictions. All teams are in Phase 1 until further notice. The league will continue to communicate with the SCHSL Task Force, the Governor's office, and the Department of Health and Environmental Control to establish triggers to move into the next two phases.