Some youth sports deemed low risk can start up once again on July 6, after many saw most of their winter season and all of their spring season canceled by coronavirus.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo made the announcement after Long Island officials pushed for eased restrictions on kids with the school year ending, the weather getting warmer and new cases continuing to decrease.

Sports on the list included baseball, softball, field hockey, crew, cross country and gymnastics.

At Eisenhower Park Monday morning, parents were conflicted over whether they'd sign their kids up.

Teddy Neptune from Westbury said spikes around the country have him concerned.

"I would still wait. I don't feel like it is safe. I feel like everyone is too eager to get out and that the virus is done. The virus is not done," he added.

Hempstead mom Tina Boyd said it would be too soon for her 2-year-old, but great for older kids.

"They've been cooped up in the house and learning online. They haven't been able to socialize. So this will be an opportunity for them to get out and socialize. It will be good for their mental health," she explained.

Boyd said she wonders what they will decide when it comes to face coverings. As an adult she said she finds it difficult to wear one while exercising and doesn't know if kids will be able to keep them on for a whole game in the sun.

She said, "I don't know how that would work for a kid you know, are they going to feel the same way? Are they going to be able to do it or not? For baseball you could maybe go without a mask because you never get too close but with some of the other sports— you never know!"

Each child will be able to have two spectators. Other guidelines have not been announced, including where large-scale practices are allowed.

 

"When the governor had his press conference the other day, it just caused more confusion with the league, with the parents, and that's why he needs to give clear guidance now," says Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin.

Clavin says parents have asked him about the new sports policies and are confused. He also says some coaches are asking why certain non-contact sports like girls lacrosse were not included on the list.

Meanwhile, Elite Gymnastics owner Christine Winston has been preparing by marking out areas for kids to train safely indoors and outdoors. But unlike others, the gym is not opening for small groups or training until July 6, in case there are any last-minute rule changes.

"We are going on that date and we are looking for further information of what we have to do," she says.

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