The Coastal Plain League, as of Monday, April 6, said it still plans on opening the season as expected in late May, although the league is carefully monitoring the coronavirus and listening to state and local officials concerning COVID-19.
The league sent this statement to all teams Monday:
The Coastal Plain League is continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation and its impact on our players, fans and communities. At this time, our plan is to start the 2020 season as scheduled on Thursday, May 28, 2020. We will announce alternative plans if required and will keep you updated as we move closer to the summer season. Thank you for your continued support and stay safe and healthy.
"We are very anxious to get the season started, but we have to do what is within the guidelines and what is in the best interest for everyone's safety, health and well-being," Copperheads owner Doug Pugh said.
Currently, the state government has issued a stay-at-home order for North Carolina residents as well as for the vast majority of the rest of the country. The stay-at-home order runs through April 30.
"We are certainly keeping a very close watch on the situation involving the coronavirus and will take appropriate action to ensure the safety of not only our fans, but the players, interns, workers and staff," General Manager Dennis Garcia said. "I know there are many people who would love nothing more than to start the season on time. We, of course, are right there with them, but it is very important we stay within the guidelines given to us by our state officials. If everyone adhered to these guidelines, it will certainly make a difference in ending this unprecedented situation as soon as possible."
The Copperheads would like to thank their fans and sponsors for their understanding and support during these trying tmes and the organization would like to send its best wishes to all in hopes that everyone remains safe.