After careful consideration and in consultation with principals, the following guidance and decisions are being rendered by Bladen County Schools:
The tournament finals will be resumed in a modified format and with strict procedures to ensure that student athletes can compete in a safe environment.
Date of Finals: Wednesday, March 13
Neutral Location: West Bladen High School Gym
Times
Girls – 4 p.m.: Elizabethtown vs Clarkton
Boys – approximately 5 p.m.: Tar Heel vs Bladenboro
Guidelines:
1. The gym will be closed to all spectators for the final games. The only individuals allowed in the playing area will be student athletes and cheerleaders for the competing teams, board-approved coaches for the competing teams, game officials, media officials with the appropriate pass, and school and district administration.
2. School resource officers (SROs) will be present to ensure that the playing area is secure and that no unauthorized entry occurs.
3. The games will be live-streamed over the district’s YouTube channel and social media platforms for families and others so they can view the games in real-time.
4. Coach Patty Evers, Bladen County Schools Athletic Director, will secure two NC High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) certified game officials to officiate both games. This will ensure that the games are officiated by approved officials who completed appropriate certifications and to ensure the integrity of the game.
5. While we do not anticipate any problems in this modified environment, please note the following concerning conduct and sportsmanship:
a) Student athletes who do not exhibit appropriate sportsmanlike conduct or who cause disruptions during the final games will be removed immediately from the gym and will lose privileges to participate in, or attend any extracurricular activities (games, dances, etc.) for the remainder of the school year.
b) Coaches and other staff who do not exhibit appropriate sportsmanlike conduct or who cause disruptions during the final games will be removed immediately from the gym and be subject to disciplinary action, including and up to dismissal.
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