AUSTIN, Texas -- For the first time since the middle of March, high school athletes were allowed back on campus to workout. Monday was the first day for UIL schools to bring players back to work with coaches and the rest of their team for off-season conditioning.

“These last 11 weeks have been tough not only for the kids but the coaches,” says Vandegrift head football coach Drew Sanders. “There’s nothing like being around your guys, so today was just very refreshing.”

Bringing students back on campus means a few protocols were put in place to help create a safer environment.

At Vandegrift, the athletes all checked in and had filled out a screening questionnaire. There were sanitizing stations in different spots.

All the weight lifting stations had been moved outside and athletes were wiping down the equipment after each use. 

“We have to do our part now so there’s no huge outbreak, minimize any COVID infections we do have and prove that we can do this,” says Sanders. “We have got to get this right.”

While there was excitement to have teams back together on Monday, it will be important to watch over the next few weeks how this all goes and if programs across Texas are being smart and safe and in turn allowing for sports to be played this fall.