Quincy Reporter

Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Mt. Sterling) wants Gov J.B. Pritzker to allow school sports to resume in Illinois, saying they are vital for students.

“School sports are a vital part of the social fabric of many of our communities,” Tracy said in a letter to Pritzker. “Our school sports help develop our students’ mental and physical wellbeing, and teach the athletes many valuable life skills.”

Tracy said student-athletes have already lost so much.

“For many young people, school sports are a stepping stone to higher education and other career opportunities once they complete their public education,” Tracy said in the letter to Pritzker. “And school sports bring together our communities – the fans in the bleachers, the student body, the band and the participating athletes.”

In-person learning has proven to be safe and successful, says Tracy, adding that the same safety precaution can also be adopted on the field.

“Our schools that are teaching in person have proven that they can do so in a safe manner. Likewise, sports should be allowed to operate in a safe manner...Trust them to know what is best for their communities. Let the IHSA make the decision about winter and spring sports. Please give our students the options to play sports again in Illinois,’” she said in the letter.

Illinois’ 47th district is close to the Iowa and Missouri borders, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan and Kentucky are closer to the border and students go to play sports there. The community and business people have followed all safety precautions in the fight against COVID-19.