All that was missing on Monday when several Sounders FC players made their way onto the Star Fire practice pitch, was the Thin Lizzy classic the Boys are back in town.
A day after receiving approval from government officials and public health authorities Rave Green players began individual workouts. Club personnel was on hand to create a controlled environment that met state safety and physical distancing protocols.
RESTRICTED SPACE
Players were restricted to individual quadrants and worked on ball skills, strength, and condition. Despite the workouts being voluntary most of the players were on hand. Players that did not participate had excused absences according to head coach Brian Schmetzer.
NOT ACCESS TO TEAM FACILITES
The players could use the practice fields. The team clubhouse was off-limits. The individual protocol prohibited the players from using the club indoor individual facilities including locker rooms, team gyms, and training rooms. The only players allowed to use team facilities were those receiving post-operative and rehabilitation treatment from the club’s Chief Medical Officer.
May 14th Major League Soccer extended the moratorium for small group and team training sessions until June 1st. Monday’s individual voluntary sessions were a giant step towards MLS clubs resuming some type of league play. Washington State Governor Jay Inslee has implemented a four Phase Plan. To get the state fully operational all testing and measuring protocols must be met. Phase 4 of the plan would allow large sporting events around July 13.
LEAGUE PLAY UNCERTAIN AT BEST
With each state under different re-opening guidelines, MLS is now tasked with making it all work. Creating an equitable schedule keeping in mind travel and safety.
