Houston County coaches react to COVID-19 pandemic

This last week or so has been tumultuous for the entire country.

It’s still hard to accept the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s unknown how much the virus will continue to affect daily life.

With schools closed and all sports canceled or postponed, we gathered reactions from some of Houston County’s high school coaches and athletic directors on this situation.

“It’s unprecedented, it’s very different. But if it’s what needs to happen, you just roll with it, and it’s not like you’re in a situation by yourself,” said Northside Athletic Director Chad Alligood. “The whole state is dealing with it; the whole country is dealing with it. You feel for the seniors because their season may be over with. We don’t know that, but it’s a good possibility… It’s a unique situation to say the least.”

Taking the necessary precautions hurts but is essential right now. Everybody is in this together like a team and should be wary of what COVID-19 could lead to.

“In times like this, because it’s so new to everybody, you kind of want to err on the side of caution,” said Warner Robins Athletic Director Marquis Westbrook. “I think our administration here in Houston County and around the state are doing the right thing. Because you never want to, you know, try to jeopardize anybody’s life. Sports are very important, but it’s not worth somebody contracting that virus (and) spreading it even more. I think we’re doing the right thing.”

For spring athletes, it’s likely they won’t suit up again as Georgia high schools aren’t scheduled to reopen until March 31; and that’s if there isn’t an extension.

“I understand what’s being done for the safety of the kids and everybody around here is first and foremost,” said Westfield Baseball Head Coach Rob Fitzpatrick right after playing what could’ve been their last game this year. “I’m disappointed for the older guys, really for everybody. We put a lot of time and effort into this (season) to get ourselves ready… I’d hate for any kid to have to lose their senior season or any season.”

COVID-19 is robbing student-athletes of a season and an education, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

What’s most frightening is this virus continues to dramatically affect people’s livelihood. Whether it’s health, financial or occupational; there have been no boundaries with the turmoil caused by this virus.

“I’m just shocked about the whole coronavirus thing, actually,” said Veterans Baseball Head Coach Mark Tallant. “I mean, one minute we’re going everywhere playing games, and nonstop action all day long teaching, and then… boom! A screeching halt to life! The news across the country of doctors and nurses putting their lives on the line to help people; it’s scary to be honest. My wife is a nurse, and I’m worried for her, and the stress of it all for the older people, and not knowing what’s to come for our country. Wow! I’m just praying hard that our scientists can quickly find a cure.”

Each of their reactions shared the same perplexed emotion.

Now that the first confirmed case of COVID-19 has hit Houston County and as more cases arise across the country, the likelihood of the precautions ending by April is diminishing.

As this pandemic continues to take its toll on the country, all people can do is take the recommended precautions and try to proceed with their everyday life.

HHJ News