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"Let them play": Parents, students, lawmakers send message to PIAA in rally

The rally in Harrisburg came as the PIAA is set to meet on Friday

"Let them play," was the chant from the crowd as Thursday parents, students, and some lawmakers gathered outside the steps of the State Capitol.

Their message was focused on the PIAA and the meeting set for Friday that could determine the future of fall sports.

"I encourage the PIAA board to think of us, the 2021 seniors," said Senior Athlete Ashlyn O'Neill of York Catholic High School who added, "this was supposed to be our year."

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The rally was also attended by lawmakers including Republican Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman who brought his children to the event as well to echo the plea.

"We urge them to follow through despite the recommendations coming from this administration," Sen. Corman said.

Governor Wolf has given the recommendation for no high school sports until January 2021 but he has emphasized that the final decision lies with individual organizations and school districts.

RELATED: PIAA's letter to Gov. Wolf requests correspondence on fall sports

RELATED: Gov. Wolf recommends no high school sports until January 2021

The crowd Thursday emphasized, their plea not only lies with the PIAA but also with the school boards and school districts.

Parent Christi Delp, who attended the rally in support of her daughter who plays tennis, pointed to low CDC hospitalization rates among youth as one reason why students should be able to play. Delp also agreed with many of the speakers who said not being able to play sports can take an emotional toll on students, especially those who feel a need to play to support their future college prospects.

"It is an emotional toll on her because she is working hard and she has uncertainty as to what it's going to bring. Will she be able to play this season or not?" said Delp about her daughter.

Delp and many at the rally also emphasized that sports can be played safety with COVID-19 precautions in mind.

Delp said, "the coaches and the administration they'll continue to work very diligently to make sure all the children are safe and their parents and their coaches and their fans. Let them play!"

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