Significant steps are under way for possible return of high school sports

Marina players look on during a game in 2019. (File photo: Fernando M. Donado, For OC Sports Zone)

Although there weren’t any high school sports last week, there were some encouraging signs that high school sports in Orange County could be returning …. and we had some other updates about high school athletes and coaches.

The week ended with some encouraging news about the scheduled return of one of Orange County’s best high school baseball tournaments, the Ryan Lemmon Invitational.

Tournament Director Dick Owens announced that a 32-team field is set for the tournament, to be held March 27-31, 2021 at the Orange County Great Park and Ryan Lemmon Stadium if high school sports can return. Last year’s tournament was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Owens also announced that fans attending games at Ryan Lemmon Stadium will have some shade, as shade covers will be installed over the stands.

In addition, CIF commissioner Rob Wigod provided some encouraging words for fans, coaches and players, as plans continued for the return of high school sports in December. Under the new plan, high school football would begin in January 2021. Local and state health officials have to give final approval for the seasons to occur.

Also, Westminster’s drive-through ceremony for its baseball seniors was featured in an article. The event, coordinated by energetic coach Craig Jones, was held earlier this year.

We also shared news about Dillon Keefe, a former El Modena High football star, who has earned pre-season honors for the Chapman University football team.

And, we introduced you to the new boys volleyball coach at University High, Chris Carter.

We welcome your sports news during this break. Please email to editor Tim Burt: timburt@ocsportszone.com so we can share with our readers and we welcome photos too. We remain committed to a regular publication schedule and our site remains free.

In case you missed it, here’s a look back at our top five stories of the week: