Athletes in our local high schools learned that their seasons have officially come to an end today.

State schools superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey announced Thursday that spring sports for Alabama public high schools would not be resumed.

The move comes in response to Gov. Kay Ivey’s announcement that all public schools will move to instruction at home beginning April 6. This was the scheduled end date for the current suspension of school and extracurricular activities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Where online instruction isn’t possible, schools will provide take-home packets.

Baseball, golf, soccer, softball, tennis and outdoor track and field play out their AHSAA seasons during the spring.  “They won’t be able to complete those activities,” said Mackey.

The AHSAA has deferred comment on Mackey’s announcement until Friday. Executive Director Steve Savarese and staff are working to analyze Thursday’s announcements from the State Department of Education and the Department of Public Health.

“Like you, we have just heard the directive from Alabama State Superintendent of Education concerning member schools moving forward this spring,” AHSAA spokesman Ron Ingram said. “The AHSAA will have a statement tomorrow morning, once Mr. Savarese has had the chance to discuss with the AHSAA Central Board of Control.”