Football and Volleyball seasons back on

Zander Rusert, staff writer|October 9, 2020

The Cotter football team lines the side of the field as the show choir sings the national anthem in 2019

Cotter football and volleyball seasons are back on.

The MSHSL reversed its decision and the two sports are now playing limited seasons in the fall and the proposed fourth season in the spring has been eliminated from the calendar.

The MSHSL decided in September to look at the fall sports that were postponed to spring again. They ultimately decided to give volleyball and football the ability to play in the fall.

It was then up to the schools to decide if they would participate.

In football, Cotter is scheduled to play three games instead of the six MSHSL allowed. Football has recently added two more games against La Crescent, and Wabasha-Kellogg.

Viewers will be allowed back in the stands for Cotter football games, but only limited to 170 for home spectators, and 80 away. There are no viewers allowed for volleyball.

Volleyball’s first game is October 8 away at Caledonia.

Football’s first game is Friday, October 9, away against Hayfield starting at 7 p.m.

Most players were pleased with the addition of the extra games. However, there’s the injury factor, more games means higher chances of people getting injured and this is particularly a concern for a team with small numbers.

“If we stay healthy it’ll be great to have more games,”. Ryan Hesch, a junior an team co-captain said.

The volleyball team is also excited to have the chance to play, even if it means playing without fans in the stands.

“We are so thankful for the support we received from the Cotter community and even people all over the country! I was overwhelmed with joy when I found out we were getting our season back,” Grace Miller, senior co-captain said.

The constant change has been difficult on the athletic administration, as well

“Scheduling games is part of the role as the AD. Whether it be games during a “normal year” or a unique situation such as this year, that is part of the job,” Cotter’s athletic director Seth Haun said.