The Michigan High School Athletic Association reinstated the fall football season Thursday after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer lifted restrictions that did not allow the sport to be played.
Practices begin Sept. 8 and games on Sept. 17.
The first three games of the season will be scrapped since the new start date falls on the fourth week.
Following the guidance from the state, spectators at the games will be limited to two per athlete.
Football teams previously had been allowed to practice in helmets only during the traditional first week of practice, which began Aug. 10, and then during Council-approved offseason “contact” days beginning Aug. 24.
With the reinstatement of this fall’s season, football teams must cease all activity until Tuesday, Sept. 8, then practice two days in helmets and shoulder pads before adding full pads Sept. 10.
MHSAA will hold a state tournament for schools that want to participate.
Schools are not required to participate in sports this fall and may postpone until the spring.
