Whether or not the same view ultimately ever becomes the case in Kentucky, a decision Tuesday in Ohio does bear watching. Officials with the Ohio High School Athletic Association announced that, effective immediately, volleyball would be viewed in that state as a “non-contact” sport, as it pertains to restarting sports in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
An announcement after a meeting of the board of the OHSAA noted that “during a recent court proceeding, it was asked if volleyball was considered a contact or non-contact sport. It was announced that the Governor’s Office viewed it as a non-contact sport, something which was previously a gray area.”
The statement went on to say that the assocation “received a statement from an attorney that represents the Governor’s office that volleyball has now been declared a non-contact sport, effective immediately.” Athletic officials in Ohio then in turn asked for specific guidance as it applies to volleyball.
What the decision means is that in Ohio, volleyball becomes officially a “non-contact” sport, putting it in the category with baseball, golf, softball, swimming & diving, tennis, and track & field. It also means that competition is now permitted in volleyball in the state of Ohio.
