Good news for anyone wanting to compete as much as they possibly can throughout the academic year.

The IHSA announced on Tuesday that it's working closely with state legislators to potentially expand opportunities for student-athletes to participate in non-school-related sporting events during the school season.

"Through this measure, we are helping to connect youth in our communities to further opportunities, such as college scholarships, and allowing them more time to play a sport they enjoy before they graduate," state Sen. Ram Villivalam said in the IHSA release. "I am grateful for the continued collaboration between Rep. Yang Rohr, IHSA and advocates who are working to address the concerns of many athletes."

Villivalam and state Rep. Janet Yang Rohr have sponsored House Bill 3037, more commonly known as the Right to Play Act, which would provide these extra opportunities. Current IHSA by-laws prevent student-athletes from participating in non-school events -- such as playing for travel teams -- while simultaneously competing for their school programs. This update would allow for more flexibility in these situations.

"We recognize that IHSA by-laws require occasional modifications," IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson said in the release. "We appreciate Sen. Villivalam and Rep. Yang Rohr's focus on serving their constituents. Their willingness to incorporate feedback from IHSA coaches and stakeholders and work within the existing IHSA framework was equally important, as the IHSA has been governed by member schools for over 100 years."

Administrators of IHSA member schools will attend town hall meetings in November to give their thoughts on the proposed updates before the IHSA's legislative commission votes on them.

"High school athletes and their families from across the state have raised their voices about the challenges they face," Yang Rohr said in the release. "IHSA's guidelines help prevent overuse injuries and support high school sports while also giving student-athletes more flexibility. I appreciate Sen. Villivalam and IHSA representatives for their work to create solutions that work for parents, schools and communities."