Crowds of kids at games
Sunday Mail 67
Scotland’s top clubs could find themselves playing in front of crowds – of KIDS.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon appeared to deal Premiership clubs a blow last week when she said it has not been conf irmed crowds could return to games in October.
And Professor Jason Leitch, the country’s clinical director, yesterday stressed that the August 1 kick- off for the new season had still to be rubber-stamped too.
But he did hint that chi ldren up to the age of 11 could be allowed in to watch games and bridge the gap between no fans and full stadia.
Professor Leitch said: “It’s a really interesting idea.
“It may well be a thought that classes could go, or school trips.
“I think it’s an excellent idea. The extra bit we’d need is the ability to gather in larger groups outdoors.
“That will come in time, the idea of it is a neat transition to actual crowds physically distancing.
“I don’t think we’re there yet, but it’s worth exploring.”
He added: “August 1 is still on the calendar for behind closed doors games, but there is no decision from ministers – the Sports Minister up to the First Minister.”
With clubs returning to full contact training last week, Leitch says the single positive Covid-19 result – at Aberdeen – from testing at clubs, is encouraging.
Speaking to Off The Ball on Radio Scotland, he added: “I was impressed with the behaviour of the clubs and very impressed with the behaviour of the players and coaches.
“They have followed the rules in training and moving to the next stage.
“The grassroots stuff for kids will start quite soon and if we get through that stepped process we will get back to bounce games so they can play matches.
“Although it sounds a bit disappointing that we had a posit ive case, I was actually encouraged by it.
“It shows the system is working. I would expect occasional positives.
“If you go away with none that would seem a little odd just now.”