ROCHELLE — Rochelle Junior Tackle will open registrations online for the 2020 season. The move comes after the IHSA enacted its Phase 4 Return to Play Guidelines this past Friday.

President Derek Johnson wrote on Facebook Tuesday evening that RJT and the Big 14 Conference will be following IHSA guidelines as the program prepares for the upcoming season. Johnson also said conference leaders will meet on July 13 to further discuss the season. Registrations are open online at http://www.rochellejuniortackle.com.

“We understand you may choose not to participate due to the potential risks involved,” Johnson wrote. “If you are considering playing, it will be essential for you to register so we have an idea of number of participants and team sizes for flag football. Also note that in order to participate in any program we offer, players may be subject to symptom questionnaires and temperature checks every day before participation can begin.”

Johnson acknowledged that any potential seasons this fall could be shortened or even shut down due to flare-ups of the COVID-19 virus. Johnson wrote that refunds will be issued to families if the season is cancelled or if families reconsider playing this fall due to COVID-19 concerns. The RJT board is currently discussing plans for the cheer and dance programs.

“Please understand when registering that there is a possibility that we play a shortened tackle season or that we could get shut down only a few weeks in,” Johnson wrote. “Positive tests among teammates & their families or volunteers will also result in a team quarantine. Everything could end just as quick as it started. We're some of the first groups to start trying this, which is why we are following IHSA's lead. We will share more information as it becomes available.”