USTA Middle States
COVID-19 Updates
Last Updated: January 18, 2021 | 8:12 a.m.
Topics on this page include:
1. USTA Middle States (USTAMS) General Statement on Programming
2. Update on USTA Programming in Delaware
3. Update on USTA Programming in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
1. USTA Middle States (USTA MS) General Statement on Programming
In recent weeks, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and West Virginia have all released information and announcements about slowing the spread of COVID-19. This comes with new policies on out-of-state travel, mask mandates, restrictions on gatherings, and more.
More detailed USTA MS programming updates for each particular state can be found below this general statement. As state mandates and protocols are changing frequently, we will continue to keep this page updated.
During any pauses in programming, USTA Middle States will continue to monitor state announcements and news on a daily basis. ADVERTISEMENT USTA Middle States will also work closely with facility operators and program organizers to determine the best way to proceed with future scheduling. Captains who organize USTA League play should connect with their respective USTA Area League Coordinator to discuss the rescheduling of matches.
Where allowed, USTA Middle States will continue to offer tennis programming throughout the section, with the expectation that all players will respect and follow the rules set both in their local areas, and in any area of which they will be participating. This means players traveling to play at a USTA-sanctioned event must be up-to-date with — and act in accordance with — all guidelines, mandates, or rules put in place by the state or municipality to which they are traveling.
As it has over the last 11 months, the USTA Middle States team of staff and volunteers will continue to explore tennis programming options that provide opportunities to play and participate in our game, while keeping player and community safety at the highest level of importance.
USTA Middle States will update this page frequently should there be programming updates or local USTA-related changes. Questions or concerns can be sent to communications@ms.usta.com. A locally-based FAQ page about programming that is currently running can be found here. Up-to-date information on state protocols can be found at the following sites: Delaware | New Jersey | Pennsylvania | West Virginia
2. Update on USTA Programming in Delaware (Referencing ‘Stay-at-Home’ Advisory)
As of Monday, January 11, the pause on USTA programming in Delaware has been lifted. This includes USTA League, USTA Tournaments, and all other USTA-associated events.
This resumption in play comes after Delaware Governor John Carney modified the state’s emergency order, allowing all games, matches and competitions to resume.
All programs must continue to follow state mandates and protocols that are in place, including an indoor mask order. In addition, all facilities must ensure only 30 percent of maximum occupancy, including athletes, coaches, event staff and facility employees. One person may accompany an athlete and will not be included in the 30 percent capacity limit, however, additional spectators are not allowed to attend.
Meanwhile, anyone who participates in an out-of-state tournament or competition must continue to self-quarantine in accordance with Delaware’s Division of Public Health. Additional information about the state’s rules can be found at the state’s official COVID updates webpage.
3. Update on USTA Programming in Pennsylvania and New Jersey (Referencing State-wide Restrictions)
In accordance with recent announcements by Governors in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, indoor USTA programming has resumed in those states. This is effective in Pennsylvania as of January 4, and in New Jersey as of January 2.
Additional Links, Safety Information and Resources
USTA Middle States Programming: COVID-19 FAQ
Playing Tennis Safely: for Facilities and Programs