Preparation for the 2024 fall sports season is in full swing, with camps and practices underway and competitions right around the corner. But for one full week in late July and early August, the courts, fields, pools and courses grow silent across the state of Iowa.

For the fourth year in a row, Iowa’s Unified Activity Federation calendar included “Family Week” from Sunday, July 28, through Sunday, August 4. The Iowa High School Athletic Association, Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union, Iowa High School Music Association and Iowa High School Speech Association partnered to create Family Week in 2021. It was designed as a built-in break for students, parents, coaches, officials and school administrators, prioritizing family, friends and rest.

During Family Week, all events, practices, open gyms and weight room sessions are prohibited, along with any contact between coaches and teachers with students in extracurricular activities. Family vacations are encouraged.

Norwalk Activities Director Josh Tobey tells KNIA Sports that Family Week has been fantastic for everyone involved, eliminating the worry – by either students or parents – of missing out on an opportunity to get better.

“Family week provides an opportunity for people to just truly disconnect with really no temptation to have an open court, an open gym, weight room session or practice at any level – 7 through 12,” Tobey said. “I think even some non-school groups have figured out that this is not a great week to do stuff, so families have truly taken advantage of that and given kids a break and coaches a break, which is much needed, before you head into the grind of the school year.”

The first official competition for Norwalk Athletics this fall is set for Monday, August 19, when the Warrior boys golf team travels to Briarwood Golf Course for the Ankeny Centennial Invite.