With Missouri Gov. Mike Parson's announcement Thursday, any hope of high school spring sports in Missouri disappeared.
In his daily afternoon press conference, Parson ordered that all public and charter schools will be closed for the rest of the academic school year. And just like that, the prep seasons for baseball, softball, boys golf, boys tennis, girls soccer and boys and girls track and field were over before they got started.
Last month the Missouri High School Activities Association said in a release that organized practices and team competitions could not be held as long as schools were closed. So until Parson made his announcement on Thursday, athletes and coaches were holding out hope.

"This decision is very difficult for all involved especially given the impact it will have on our students, parents, coaches, teachers and administrators throughout the state," MSHSAA executive director Dr. Kerwin Urhann said in a release. "The MSHSAA office thanks everyone involved for their patience and understanding throughout this process."
Of course, the senior athletes are the ones who hurt the most.
"Your senior year is something that is so special. You build your high school career up to that point when that will be the ultimate, your time to be the leader, to put all the things you worked on at accomplishing and developing to be put on the field. To have that taken away is pretty tough. It's tough on them, tough on all the people who care about them."
"To our senior participants, we thank you for everything you have done for your schools and communities and wish you the very best in your bright futures," Urhann said. "While this is a difficult ending, the lessons you've learned and friendships you've made through school activities will last your lifetime."

For CHS Spring Sports athletes, information regarding equipment and uniform return, awards, future team get togethers will be released in coming days. 

-in part by Jim Henry, Joplin Globe Sports online