GUYTON — Like most every aspect of life, COVID-19 has put limitations on the sports realm.
And at the college level, the NCAA has suspended recruiting activities, putting some prep stars in limbo as they await their opportunity visit universities and receive an offer.
“Some guys are still searching for a couple places and have a couple opportunities,” Mustangs head coach Nathan Clark said. “We were going to go visit some places but that is probably not going to happen right now. They can’t go.
“I think everybody is having to rethink what is going on and what is taking place. No one has it figured out yet.”
Clark sees the restrictions as a life lesson, telling his young men that they are in the same situation as others around the country and that this is a time to learn how to adapt when hard times strike.
“The thing I tried to tell the guys after weight classes is that it is happening to everybody,” Clark said. “It’s not just affecting us. We are no further behind than anybody else. I’m sure it’s disappointing to some of the kids but, at the same time, it’s a good learning moment. You have to adjust in life.
“It teaches you how to adapt and overcome certain circumstances.”
Despite school being out until at least April 13 and area gyms closing because of social distancing requirements, Clark expects his players to stay fit.
“Well, what we’ve done — every teacher has a link on the school webpage, and we’ve told all the players and students to click on our name and they have several different choices,” Clark said. “It’s things they can do at their house. We have asked that everybody maintain and continue to work out.
“A lot of people don’t have dumbbells or a barbell or a gym available, so we have a lot of different alternative workouts they can choose from.”
Clark is going to use most of his COVID-19 break to be with his family. However, there’s always work to be done for a head coach.
“I will have some opportunities to spend with my family,” said Clark. “It is much needed. I need to prepare for the upcoming spring practices, hoping they are going to take place.”
Spring practice is set to start in May.
“We will get everything together for the parent meeting and all the paperwork you have to do,” Clark said.
