Gym closed after school worker tests positive for virus

Summer skills training at Hawk Gym in Iowa Park were postponed this week after an Iowa Park CISD employee – not a member of the coaching staff – tested positive for COVID-19.

The workouts include basketball and volleyball skills training.

The worker reportedly had some exposure to the gym facilities, which is receiving additional desanitization.

Athletic Director Aubrey Sims noted that the postponement was done out of “an abundance of caution” and not mandated by state guidelines.

Ongoing summer strength and conditioning programs at Hawk Fieldhouse and Hawk Stadium have continued unabated. “There are no problems at the fieldhouse,” Sims said. “The weight room and bathrooms are cleaner than they’ve ever been, and we are constantly sanitizing during workouts.”

This summer has seen an exceptional increase in the number of athletes participating. Over 150 boys and 80 girls have been involved since the UIL allowed the program to resume in June.

After a break for the July 4th holidays, athletes will return to the voluntary drills on Monday, July 13. Sims said the gym should be open for skills training at that time.

When asked, Sims said the increase in participation from the Hawk and Lady Hawk athletes this summer is likely due to them seeking an outlet from the previous months of stay-in-place restrictions brought on by the virus.

“This is a positive thing for them to be involved in. We are doing everything we can to make it safe and productive.”