There is no reason for this but reason left the world a long time ago. The Northern New England Soccer League (NNESL) has mask guidelines. Everyone must wear them. Parents, coaches, even players. Despite an admission that they could pose a health risk.
From an email dated Thursday, April, 22
NNESL Mask Mandate
- Masks must be worn by all players, coaches, and fans.
- If players are not part of the “play” and are at least 6 feet apart from another player, they may pull their masks down for a brief “fresh air” break.
- If a player experiences shortness of breath while on the field, they should take a knee as they would for any other injury.
Players could or will experience shortness of breath. This is handled like an injury. A statement of fact followed by this. “As an organization we believe that the safety of our players and families are the most important and at this time the League believes that these are appropriate steps to take.”
Translation: They are mandating a required behavior that could cause injury because they care more about politics than player safety.
If it is not dangerous to ask athletes to compromise their airways while exerting themselves then why allow for a “fresh air” break at all?
The NNESL needs a few folks like Coach Brad Keyes. Someone with a spine and willingness to stand up for player safety instead of pandering to politics that harms it.
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