Coaches are used to setting a practice schedule to meet the demands of their upcoming season.
McDonald County High School baseball coach Kevin Burgi and golf coach Darryl Harbaugh don't have that opportunity this season, if there is a season.
Below are their thoughts as of conditions on March 23, prior to the extension of a closure of school from April 6 to at least April 27.
All interviews were done by text, email or phone.
Can you use any of the school facilities? Golf courses?
Burgi -- There is no use of school facilities.
Harbaugh -- We are not allowed to practice anywhere. They might play on their own, but not an official practice.
What are you asking your players to do while off?
Burgi -- The biggest thing is to stay in shape. I also send out a daily quiz on Google Classroom for them to just keep their mind on the game.
Harbaugh -- They can practice on their own and swing clubs when they can.
What are your plans when, or if, the postponement is lifted?
Burgi -- We still need three more practices to meet the 14-required (MSHSAA) and then we will start playing games.
Harbaugh -- We'll go back to the course and practice and then pick-up the schedule where we can.
Do you think there will be a season?
Burgi -- I am not thinking about not having a season.
Harbaugh -- I hope so, but you never know with this virus going around. You've got to go back 100 years to find anything that compares to this kind of a situation. It's not good and I only feel like it's going to get worse, but I hope not.
Bo Bergen, McDonald County athletic director, said all school facilities are closed and not to be used by anyone.
"Hopefully, the kids can find ways to stay somewhat active," Bergen said. "If we get to come back on April 27 we will start practicing again."
The Missouri State High School Activities Association has not announced any change of plans since its March 24 release that stated the association was still planning on a spring sports season.
That announcement came before many schools in the state, including almost all of southwest Missouri schools, announced they would extend their closing from April 6 until at least April 27.
You can check on any new announcements from MSHSAA at mshsaa.org.
Sports on 04/02/2020