Venues can welcome some fans
Governor sets strict guidelines for college sports spectators
New York college sports teams can have fans back in the stands beginning Friday under strict state guidelines, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced Tuesday.
Intercollegiate sports venues that hold more than 1,500 attendees indoors or 2,500 outdoors can host up to 10 percent indoor or 20 percent outdoor capacity, Cuomo said.
All attendees must present proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test or completed COVID-19 immunization before entry.
“College athletics not only provide opportunities for entertainment and community pride, but also play a critical role in helping drive local economies,” Cuomo said in a news release.
Capital Region colleges and universities are reacting to the new policy.
“We are exploring options for limited fan attendance based on NYS guidelines,” Ualbany athletic director Mark Benson said. “I hope to have something soon.”
Ualbany’s Casey Stadium has a seating capacity of 8,500.
Siena athletic director John D’argenio said his school will admit up to two guests per
home team student-athlete for each of its teams that are playing this spring. Athletes must register their guests, who are required to complete a health screening form and follow all college social distancing protocols.
“Our conference (the Northeast-10) still has a no spectator policy,” College of Saint Rose athletic director Lori Anctil said. “So unfortunately we need that rule to change for us to have fans. Hopefully soon.”
The Liberty League, which includes RPI, Union and Skidmore, adopted a policy of no outside spectators for spring sports. However, schools may decide on their own whether to allow faculty, staff and students to attend.
“We are going to allow faculty, students and staff to attend games,” Union athletic director Jim Mclaughlin said.
Colleges and universities hosting spectators for sporting events at largescale venues must notify and coordinate with their respective state or local health department, aligning with state guidance for professional sports competitions with spectators.
Small-scale college venues that host intercollegiate, intramural or club sports can host spectators at either two fans per player, or the social gathering limit of 100 attendees indoors or 200 attendees outdoors.
However, if the school or venue requires all attendees to present proof of a recent negative test result or completed immunization prior to entry, capacity can increase up to 150 attendees indoors or 500 attendees outdoors. A maximum occupancy limit of 50 percent remains in effect, pursuant to the state guidance for sports and recreational activities.