John Devaney and Teddy Devaney
Staff Writers
The coronavirus has put an end to sports for long enough now. The national lockdown started back in March. Since the national lockdown began, all public facilities for all sports have been shut down, including swimming. But now it appears swimming will be one of the first sports to start up again.
Petitions are being created for swimmers in several states now. New Jersey was the first one, with two teenage boys creating a petition highlighting why swimming can resume safely. There will still be social distancing and people will be limited in numbers. However, the CDC stated that when the coronavirus pandemic began, that pools actually destroy the virus with chlorine and are safe to use.
On Friday June 5, outdoor pools can open in the “yellow” phase, indoor pools can open in “green” phase according to Governor Tom Wolf. All Pennsylvania counties are expected to be in the yellow phase beginning June 5. Included in the yellow phase, there are no gatherings of over 25 people, businesses can open at 50% capacity, and all indoor recreation facilities must remain closed.
Unfortunately, USA swimming will not be administering any meets this summer, but there are still club teams who are open to take on the task of providing pools while keeping people safe. Once we enter the green phase, businesses may open at 75% capacity, large gatherings may include up to 250 people, and indoor recreation facilities can open at 50% capacity, including pools.
With the pandemic finally slowing down, and the perseverance of the world in lockdown, we are all being rewarded for keeping each other safe.
