LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky’s athletic sanctioning body has ordered high schools not to conduct postgame handshakes in all sports following more than two dozen physical confrontations the past three years.
Tuesday’s directive from Kentucky High School Athletic Association Commissioner Julian Tackett posted on its web site didn’t mention specific fights or conflicts but said several fall sports have had postgame incidents. The organization says it’s “disappointing” to take such action but that it became necessary because of occurrences statewide and nationally.
KHSAA has also instructed game officials to immediately leave facilities after contests or risk being penalized.
Teams can choose to ignore the order. Schools that can conduct handshakes must supervise the activity and report any incidents to KHSAA.
Member schools or coaches that engage in unsportsmanlike behavior will be fined and penalized.
