Breaking down the MIAA guidelines for Massachusetts high school soccer

The MIAA released guidelines, which sent shockwaves across Massachusetts. (Dave Arnold/New England Soccer Journal)

The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) COVID-19 Task Force has approved modifications for Fall I season sports across the commonwealth, providing a clearer picture of what high school soccer games will entail in 2020.

The guidelines, which range from social-distancing measures to vast rule changes, were developed after the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) adjusted its guidelines in mid-August around how moderate-risk sports (i.e. soccer) can maintain Level 3 status (games against outside opponents).

Before diving into specifics, there was a general takeaway as New England Soccer Journal connected with several prominent coaching figures Friday afternoon.