The Iowa High School Athletic Association has made an offical statement concerning Iowa High School Athletics that have been affected from the tragedy on Tuesday.

Thursday's declaration by President Bush that Friday is to be recognized as a Day of Prayer and Remembrance is in concert with the IHSAA position stated below. We would only add this strong recommendation: If your school chooses not to open for class Friday, then you do not play games.

After receiving many phone calls from many school administrators, the Iowa High School Athletic Association believes it appropriate to respond to the events of Tuesday's tragedy and the decision schools make regarding their weekend activities.

First, local Boards of Education have the authority to do as they desire as far as this weekend's contests are concerned. The Iowa High School Athletic Association encourages schools to consider proceeding with their games and activities. At athletic events it is entirely appropriate to invite fans to bow their heads in a silent prayer or moment of silence for those who lost their lives and others affected by this tragedy. (See the protocol for flag raising and lowering and national anthem below.)

Secondly, the Association believes that it is important to send a message to our students and communities that there is a need to return to some stage of normalcy after a tragic event. It is not that our games are that important. Whether we play or do not play is not the issue. A high school event provides a positive environment for our young people and their communities to come together.

The IHSAA is not superseding the authority of local Boards of Education who ultimately have to make the decision for their school. We want all school to understand the positon of the IHSAA.

Bernie Saggau

Executive Director