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Lunenburg County Youth Baseball League (LCYBL) plans to continue practices and activities as scheduled, according to a Friday, March 13, letter from LCYBL President David Clark.

However, the letter noted that the league is taking precautions and closely monitoring COVID-19 (the coronavirus). The letter added that as of Friday, March 13, the Virginia Department of Health had no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Lunenburg County.

Dixie Youth Baseball Inc. (DYB) announced Friday it was recommending its leagues delay the start of the 2020 DYB regular season in an effort to help stem the spread of COVID-19.

“We request that DYB leagues suspend all activities that involve the gathering of individuals for games and/or practices until after April 4, 2020,” officials said in the DYB press release.

Officials added that due to the recommendation and request, DYB will adjust its regulations regarding tournament team eligibility for the 2020 season as necessary.

“We encourage any league that chooses to not delay their season to consult with their local government, school boards and health departments before making a final decision,” officials said in the release.

In his letter, Clark stated that the LCYBL Board of Directors was immediately initiating a precautionary “no contact” policy to be observed until further notice. This includes all physical contact such as pregame coaches handshakes, umpire and coach introductions and postgame handshakes with opposing teams.

“All participants should be aware of the risk and take the necessary precautions to avoid exposure to germs,” Clark wrote. “This includes maintaining good hygiene practices.”

He stated the league strongly recommends washing hands often, using soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap is not available, and covering your mouth and nose with a tissue if possible when coughing or sneezing.

“If your child is sick or running a fever, do not attend scheduled activities or practices,” Clark wrote. “If a parent does not feel comfortable with their child attending practices, please let your manager know in advance.”

All players need to bring their own water or sports drink, Clark stated, as coaches will not be providing water at this time.

The letter concluded with Clark noting that if any confirmed cases of COVID-19 are reported in Lunenburg County, the LCYBL Board of Directors will reevaluate.