With the local concern about the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the GBL Board of Directors and league officials want to ensure you that we are carefully monitoring the situation locally. GBL is an approved sports provider for the City of Germantown. We have been in discussions with the Germantown Parks and Recreation department with regards to these concerning public health developments. City officials are continuing to carefully monitor the situation locally and are frequently consulting with health professionals within Shelby County regarding the specific risk represented by community programs and events. At this time, the Germantown Parks and Recreation department is not mandating the cancellation of any programs, events or services at any given facility/area.

After consulting with the City of Germantown, Germantown Parks and Recreation, and local Health Department Officials the level or risk does not warrant canceling any activities at this time. While risk currently remains low in our community, we are implementing some preventative measures to protect our players, coaches, and volunteers.

Preventative Measures:

• If you or your child are sick please stay home until you have recovered. There will be no penalty if you choose to miss a practice or game.
• We are encouraging coaches and parents to reinforce good hygiene practices.
  • Washing hands with liquid soap and water, and rubbing for at least 20 seconds, or using alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water are not available
  • Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing
• We are implementing a “No-Contact/No-Handshake” Policy
  • This is a precautionary measure consistent with the CDC social distancing recommendations to be observed at every level of the organization until further notice.
  • This includes all physical contact and extends to customary game-related activities, such as pre-game coaches’ handshakes, umpire-coach introductions, and post-game handshakes between members of opposing teams.
  • Players, coaches, and volunteers should use verbal queues, such as saying “good game,” without shaking hands, high-fiving or fist-bumping.

This situation remains fluid. We will continue to monitor closely so that we can promptly take additional steps as new information becomes available to ensure a safe and rewarding youth sports experience for your child and family.

You can find additional information about COVID-19 and precautions at University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Center for Disease Control, or Shelby County Health Department.