Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf and Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine have introduced new guidelines for spectators at high school sporting events.

In the past, indoor events were restricted to only 25 people, including players and coaches, while outdoor events allowed up to 250. The new guidelines will allow a maximum number of spectators based upon the facility’s capacity. These guidelines involve places that would normally have large gatherings like sporting events, meetings, concerts, and more. 

Masks and social distancing will still be required at all events. 

The capacity rates for indoor events: 

Venue that has a maximum of 0-2,000 people – 20% of maximum capacity 

Venue that has a maximum of 2,001 – 10,000 people – 15% of maximum capacity

Venue that has a maximum of over 10,000 people – 10% of maximum capacity (absolute max of 3,750 people)

The capacity rates for outdoor events:

Venue that has a maximum of 0-2,000 people – 25% of maximum capacity

Venue that has a maximum of 2,001 – 10,000 people – 20% of maximum capacity 

Venue that has a maximum of over 10,000 people – 15% of maximum capacity (absolute max of 7,500 people)

Athletic Director Scott Govern said things could change at any moment, but he recommended a series of changes to the school board for approval.

Indoor sports such as volleyball will allow two passes per player for both teams. Each respective team may be in the gym at once based upon the capacity.

Girl’s and Boy’s Soccer and Field Hockey will also be given 2 passes per player for visiting and home teams. Since cross country is outside and off campus, they will have 4 passes per player for both teams.

Varsity football, cheerleading, and band will only be allowed 2 passes per senior. 

“We do not have seats inside the football field, as a result, that is why we are only allowing 2 per senior family,” said Govern, “With the band and cheerleaders, as well as the football players from both teams, we would clearly be over the limit.”

That being said, Govern said to keep in mind that things can change at any time and fast, but for the time being these will be the policies for the rest of the fall sports seasons and the upcoming winter sports.