The athletic administration at the middle and high school levels have been working collaboratively to develop a spring sports participation plan that will afford middle school students the opportunity to play sports against other schools.  The fall and winter sports required modifications to the athletic experience and the spring is no different. The spring sports will have an opportunity to compete against student-athletes from neighboring middle schools; however, the number of contests will be reduced as compared to what has traditionally been allowed.  

Due to the continued shortage of school bus drivers, we are only able to provide after-school transportation for high school students at this time. Limited transportation opportunities for middle schools may occur.  

The following outlines the modifications approved for middle school athletic participation:

Middle School Athletic Participation Fee

The reduced winter activity fee will continue for the spring activity fee; the spring sports fee for the 2021-22 school year is $5.  Students will need a current sports physical to participate in the spring season; please make an appointment with your physician or visit one of our SPPS Health Start Clinics.

Schedule and Contests

Middle school sports being offered are badminton, baseball, softball and track and field.  Student-athletes will work on “skills and drills” with coaches during their respective practices.

Most contests will be held on a Saturday. Parents will need to provide transportation to the competition site(s) on weekend game dates.

Multiple contests may be scheduled at one site to allow for maximum opportunities for participation by the student-athletes.

The middle school spring sports seasons begin on Monday, April 11, 2022.  The seasons last for eight (8) weeks.

High School Athletics Option

7th and 8th grade students who meet certain criteria may be selected to try out for a team at their area high school. Athletic directors, parents and coaches will determine together if a student has the skill set and maturity level required to participate at the high school level.  Families will need to arrange transportation to/from the high school for practices, competitions and other events. Regular high school activity fees will apply.  

The middle school athletic director will assist in connecting parents and/or student-athletes with the appropriate high school athletic director for this process. 

Additional Information

All SPPS athletics and activities are following the COVID-19 recommendations from the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). The recommendations include vaccination for everyone who is eligible, frequent COVID-19 testing, wearing masks when not actively participating, keeping physical distance when possible, and practicing in small groups. Coaches and student-athletes will be informed as these guidelines are updated before or during the spring season.

Thank you for your understanding. We are looking forward to a spring season that allows competition between schools.