Kevin Sethre, staff writer

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced new COVID-19 restrictions calling for most sports to stop their seasons with college and professional sports being allowed to continue, according to WCCO. The restrictions went into effect on Nov. 20, and are scheduled to be lifted on Dec. 18. 

On the day that the restrictions went into effect, the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) released a statement on their website saying that volleyball and football, which had started later than other sports because they were deemed to carry a higher risk of virus transmission, would be terminating their seasons. They thanked all students, coaches, officials, and activities directors “for their work in navigating this difficult and unpredictable season.” 

When the season ended, Eden Prairie held the top spot in the state football ranking on MaxPreps, with Moorhead, Lakeville South, Andover and Rocori (Cold Spring) rounding out the top five. Eagan held the top spot in the state volleyball rankings, and they were followed by Wayzata, Northfield, Shakopee and St. Michael-Albertville. The volleyball playoffs had yet to start when the season was canceled.

The future remains uncertain for MIAC sports, but announcements about potential games should be announced in the coming weeks.