Dear BYSA Families:

In the past week we have heard from numerous health, political and sports agencies on the seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic and the precautions we must all take and continuously implement in our daily lives. 

We at BYSA are fully supportive of the direction and advise received and strongly encourage all members and their families to abide by the standards set forth by the experts - namely the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.) https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. 

On March 12th BYSA coaches were directed to suspend all team related activities including practices and other team gatherings. This suspension will remain in effect until April 12th and will be revised accordingly as we continue to monitor all new and developing information received from our Medical Experts and Brockton Community Leaders such as Brockton Public Schools and the Mayor’s Office.

To put things into perspective: On Friday (03/13) there were 2,210 COVID19 cases reported nationwide. On Monday evening (03/16) there were 4,465 reported cases. As of last night (03/17) 6,135 cases were known. Today we have surpassed 7,324 with 115 reported deaths. 

Although we are only in the infancy stages of this pandemic, all 50 States are now reporting positive test cases of COVID-19. So we cannot afford to treat this lightly. The importance and mental discipline of practicing the 4 safety measures of: 
1. social distancing (staying 6 feet apart & no shaking of hands) 
2. thorough hand-washing with soap and warm water
3. refraining from touching our faces
4. not participating in social gatherings of 10 or more

...are of paramount importance to our safety. 

So let wisdom prevail in our actions and decision-making. In 1918, President Woodrow Wilson ignored the evidence presented and minimized the threat of the Flu... which would eventually go on and kill more people than the Great War did. COVID-19 is predicted to be worse than the flu. 

COVID-19 is not a hoax – it is not a respecter of persons – it is not affiliated with any political party – and neither are the echoes of prejudice against our fellow Asian friends and communities true. When we hear of such ignorance, it’s time to switch our TV and radio channels. These thoughts will not be entertained or condoned within the confounds of the BYSA community. Rest assured that we have the best and brightest minds working on defeating COVID-19, and we will prevail. 

Lastly, the state and care of our mental and physical health is critical in times of anxiety and nervousness. Our Coaches are working diligently in sharing virtual sessions & encouragement for players & families through various social media platforms. I thank them for embracing and working through this difficult and challenging time. A more comprehensive outline will be provided in the coming days. 

I would like to thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate through this time of uncertainty. We hope you find comfort in knowing that the measures taken are in the best interests of our BYSA community. Please stay safe and conscious of your health, your family and your neighbors. Together, we will overcome. 

Best Regards, 
Nolan Napier 
President
Brockton Youth Soccer Association