Many High School and College Coaches Retiring Due to COVID

The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted the daily lives of everyone. Large groups of people that are in close space together are at risk of contracting the virus. That’s made it hard for coaches, especially older coaches to commit to continuing their careers.

Though young athletes are considered less susceptible to the worst of the virus, older coaches are at high risk of infection. They are at risk of suffering from severe illness and complications related to the virus. The very nature of sports involves players and coaches residing in close quarters. That promotes the spread of the virus.

Numerous teachers, coaches and instructors at the high school, club and college levels have been forced to consider retirement. They essentially have to choose to either prioritize their health or their career.

According to the New York Times, at least 30 high school and club team coaches have died due to coronavirus-related causes. It’s clear that the pandemic has made a huge impact on the educational system.

It remains unclear how many coaches have retired for reasons related to Covid-19. The NCAA, the National Federation of State High School Associations, state athletic associations and coaching organizations said they have not kept such figures.

But a number of states have reported an uptick in teacher retirements, even if it is uncertain how many are related to the coronavirus. Louisiana, for instance, reported 335 retirements in August compared with 196 that month in 2019. In Ohio, the retirement rate more than doubled from July 1 through mid-August, compared to that period a year ago.

Many college, high school and club sports are resuming or attempting to resume in several different capacities. Some games will happen with no fans present. Even with no fans at games, there is concern that the virus could still spread.

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Read the full story at the New York Times