MA Youth Soccer Drops Mask Requirement for Players Aged 18 and under (Updated)

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Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association has issued new minimum standards that drop mask requirements for the youngest participants, but which for practical purposes keep mask requirements for adult players.  The athletic organization notes that towns, regional Boards of Health, or leagues have the option of taking more restrictive measures.  The updated protocols took effect on May 18, 2021.

Mass Youth Soccer's updated 2021 Spring Covid-19 Protocols provide that masks are optional for outdoor soccer players aged 18 and under. Westwood Youth Soccer adds the requirement that youth must wear masks off the field of play when social distance cannot be maintained.

Masks may also still be worn, of course, if desired. Acknowledging that some people may choose this option, Westwood Youth Soccer adds, "As a community, WYS should continue to support and respect all individuals and avoid any mask shaming or bullying."

In contrast to the much more relaxed mask requirement for younger players, the updated protocols state that participants aged 19 years and older must wear masks during active play, when social distancing cannot be maintained. Adult players can take short and frequent mask breaks, so long as they are at least 6 feet away from other players. Westwood Youth Soccer notes that "social distancing cannot be continually maintained [by adults] while playing soccer" but appears to allow unmasking when players are socially distanced and not in the game.

Although Mass Youth Soccer states that coaches and referees  (excluding adult referees) also do not need to wear masks outdoors, Westwood Youth Soccer is asking coaches to stay masked during outdoor games when social distancing is not possible, such as in a close proximity talk with players.

Outdoor spectators do not need to wear masks, as long as they are able to maintain six feet of distance from the next family unit.

Gaiters are still prohibited. The updated protocols include the guidance that "[o]nly a face covering which attaches around the ears will be allowed, so as not to cause any injury if accidentally tugged or pulled on. No around the head or neck face coverings will be permitted during contact play. No masks with air valves or mesh masks will be allowed."

Players must continue to social distance on the sidelines and should avoid things like hugs, handshakes, fist bumps.

The updated protocols state that parents and guardians should continue to monitor their child for any symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, shortness of breath) and to keep their child at home if even mild symptoms are present.

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