SAUGUS — Saugus Pop Warner has suspended its 2020 football and cheerleading season.
The organization’s president, Michael Fronduto, said his board unanimously made the difficult call this week when it became apparent planning a socially-distanced season simply wouldn’t be feasible.
“It took me a while. I lost sleep over it and it really killed me for it to come out of my mouth, but really, it’s the right move for the football and cheer community and Saugus in general,” he said. “I just don’t know how to keep everybody safe in these circumstances, and even if I did, it was going to be so much work that I didn’t think we’d get through the season even if we were allowed to play.”
Although Saugus held off longer than many surrounding communities before making its final decision, Fronduto said it was clear that even if allowed to play, many of the organization’s usual fundraising opportunities would be heavily disrupted by state-mandated safety protocols.
In particular, concession stand and door-to-door snack sales, two of Pop Warner’s biggest money-makers, would have been impossible under current COVID-19 regulations.
“Fundraising is what makes this entire organization go around,” Fronduto said, adding that finding places for the football players and cheerleaders to practice would have also been exceedingly difficult.
“If schools aren’t going to open fully, there was no way they were going to let us use their facilities,” he said. “Where do I house my cheerleaders once it gets cold and dark early? It just was going to be too difficult a situation to manage.”
A statement released on SPW’s website this week said football and cheerleading are both considered “high risk sports for the transmission of COVID-19,” and stated that there’s currently no indication from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ that the reopening standards for youth sports will change within the next six months.
“The health and safety of our athletes … remains a priority,” the statement said.
When it came to reactions from athletes and their families, Fronduto said most people have been understanding — partially save for his own two sons, ages 10 and 12, who were disappointed to learn one of their favorite activities had been added to the growing list of COVID cancellations.
“I guess the only pressure I really had was from my two boys,” he said. “They’re not very happy right now, but they understand.”
Those with questions are encouraged to contact the board at [email protected].
Elyse Carmosino can be reached at [email protected].