The future of winter sports in the Upper Perkiomen School District will be determined at 7 p.m. Monday. During a special meeting called by school Board President Kerry Drake, members are expected to vote on a health and safety plan related to concerns over COVID-19.

            The head coaches for all four high school varsity sports have been asked to attend the virtual meeting so they can address any questions from board members.

            Brandon Hibbler, the Indians boys basketball coach, expressed confidence that his team will be permitted to start practicing on Dec. 7, then commence an abbreviated schedule in January.

            However, last week's vote by the Montgomery County Health Department, requiring all schools to utilize 100 percent virtual learning through at least Dec. 6, has left the proposed start date of the Pioneer Athletic Conference schedule "up in the air," according to an email message from David Kyler, its secretary/treasurer.

            Hibbler said his players will follow whatever guidelines the board establishes. He added that they would welcome any opportunity to compete.

            "After the shortened fall season they had, any opportunity they get to compete in the winter is gravy," Hibbler said.

            Just like during the water polo season, swimming coach Brien Kalnoski said he would continue to follow all COVID precautions/procedures as directed by the school district. He is able to increase distancing between swimmers, split practices, etc. during the swim season, according to a text message.

            "I am hopeful that there will be winter sports," Kalnoski wrote. 

            Steve Adam, the head wrestling coach, said he expects the members to ask him how he will modify practices and matches to keep the athletes safe.

            Concerns over the novel coronavirus pandemic have not deterred student interest. According to Hibbler, more than 40 players are expected to try out for the varsity and JV teams.

            "Our numbers are through the roof," the coach said.

            The Tribe swimming teams may be the largest Kalnoski has coached in eight years. So far 15 boys and 15 girls have expressed an interest in competing and completed the athletic paperwork, according to a series of texts from Kalnoski.