Tennessee issues new guidelines for non-contact sports, summer camps and higher-ed

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Tennessee has released new guidelines for non-contact sports, summer camps and higher education as part of the state’s economic reopening.

Gov. Bill Lee issued Executive Order 38 on May 22, which expanded the number of Tennesseans who could return to work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Non-contact sports were included in that order under certain precautions, including maintaining social distancing, wearing masks when possible and adding sanitation measures.

Sports that may return under the current guidelines include – but are not limited to – baseball, softball, volleyball, golf, disc golf, tennis and racket sports, cycling, track and field and other running events, and equestrian.

Contact sports such as football, wrestling, and hockey are still not allowed unless they can be played in a way that does not involve close physical contact with others.

“We’re able to continue reopening our state thanks to the sustained efforts by Tennesseans to social distance and mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” said Gov. Lee. “It’s important we continue to take personal responsibility for our health and the health of our neighbors, while recognizing and honoring the need for Tennesseans to get back to work and support their families.”

Summer camp guidance has also been expanded to include overnight camps. The group recommends additional protective measures, including thorough pre-screening measures, limited mixing of campers and staff and modified sleeping arrangements.

The new guidelines also address higher education concerns and recommends colleges and universities create policies for on-campus housing, how to isolate and care for sick students and staff and limiting number of attendees for in-person classes.

Six counties, including Davidson, were not included in the order and can continue to follow county-specific plans for reopening.