MADISON- Discussions between the Madison Recreation Department and the Madison City Schools remain ongoing in consideration for the possible upcoming 2020-2021 season of youth basketball in Madison. The Madison Basketball League (MBL) depends greatly on the use of gymnasiums within the school system to accommodate the influx of teams and players for its annual basketball program and the decision to host the season remains undecided.

According to an e-mail blast by the Madison Recreation Department- “We could not have a season without the support from the school system. Discussions with the school system have occurred over the last couple of weeks with concerns about safety, sanitizing the gym, restrooms and equipment and many other issues that could occur during our time in the schools.”

“The school system and the city will continue to monitor the data over the next few weeks and will expect a decision to be made in mid to late September. Once the decision is made, we will send out an e-mail to our coaches and players from the 2019-2020 season, as well as, posting information on our website, Facebook pages, Instagram and Twitter accounts.”

The Madison Basketball League, formerly known as BAM, is home to several hundred youth players ranging in ages from four to 18. Last season, more than 90 teams made up the league comprised of both boys and girls teams. Much of the season action is held at Dublin Memorial Park, but the majority of the games and practice sessions are held within the schools in Madison.

The Madison Recreation Department will be among the decision process and if the decision is made to go ahead with the season the registration period will be held only for three weeks instead of the customary four to five weeks. According to the e-mail blast, “More than likely there will be some major changes in the operation of the league so be ready to register when we announce the information.”

The Madison Recreation Department indicated it may open coaching registration very soon as the number of coaches willing to volunteer to assist the youth will determine whether or not a season of youth basketball will be held.

The website for the recreation department is: www.madisonal.gov.