PARK HILLS, Ky. — Covington Catholic football coach Eddie Eviston found out around 3 p.m. Monday that the Colonels would advance to the Class 5A state semifinals Dec. 11.
But it wasn't the ideal situation, where a third-round game this week would normally be decided on a football field.
Madison Southern had to cancel this Friday's third-round playoff game at CovCath due to COVID-19, according to the Kentucky High School Athletic Association events Twitter account.
CovCath AD Tony Bacigalupo and CovCath coach Eddie Eviston confirmed the information to WCPO.
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"I actually don't like the feeling," Eviston said. "I don't think that's how anybody wants to advance in the postseason."
CovCath (9-1) advances to the Class 5A state semifinals against an opponent to be determined. There is a good chance CovCath will play at home next week given that it has thesecond-highest RPIremaining in Class 5A.
Eviston said the message to his players about this week is a teaching moment for the team and a reminder for the Colonels to try to remain as healthy as they can be.
The Colonels have adapted during the unique 2020 season.
"We've adjusted how we practice," Eviston said. "I think our administration here has been the leaders and have really led the way on how we go to school. Obviously we had in-person instruction up until last week. I think the way the protocols and the way the kids exchange classes, where they sit in the classroom and how we've kind of used every space available to us on campus to make sure everybody is spaced out. All those different things – I think a lot of people put a lot of work in to get that situation taken care of."
He said the cancellation this week is simply another obstacle to overcome for the team as it prepares for the Dec. 11 game.
"It's unfortunate for our kids," Eviston said. "The seniors only have so many more opportunities to possibly suit up. This weekend was going to be one. Obviously, they won't have that opportunity, so for that reason alone it's a bad situation."
Eviston said he is proud of the way his team has adjusted ever since the Colonels started individual workouts back in July.
"Our guys are still playing with energy and are still fighting," Eviston said. "That's good to see."
