By Dakota Dobrovich-Fago, Staff Writer
Susquehanna issued a statement on March 29 that they will continue to enforce the no spectator policy at home athletic events that applies to anyone other than current Susquehanna students following protocols.
Obviously, the university has done everything they can to prevent any COVID-19 outbreaks but where does being cautious cross the line?
. Most of the sports are being played outdoors which helps prevent any COVID-19 outbreaks, since no one is being put in small confined areas. And while there are plenty of precautions being taken to protect Susquehanna students, the issue with spectors arises when it comes to allowing off-campus family and fans.
Being a senior and a member of the men’s soccer team, it has been a frustrating year for me to the say the least. The pandemic has presented a lot of tough moments, but I do not think anything will top saying goodbye to a sport I have played forever, without a full season and the support of my parents. While not being able to have a full season was disappointing, being granted games in the spring made my world a little brighter. I was going to be able to close this chapter of my life. My parents were the ones who started the soccer chapter in my life. They sacrificed a lot over the years to help me reach different levels in my career. So, these games that we were granted this semester were going to be a testament to their sacrifice. But, with COVID-19 precautions still in place, we were told that families were not allowed to watch the games in-person. My parents have never missed any of my games and would not for the world. Being told that they could not watch me play in-person was disheartening to them.
There are ways to be present in-person for the home games. A major way would be to social distance the same way students are told to at sporting events. Since most sports are being played outside there is a lower risk of the virus spreading. For example, games being held at Sassafras Field have plenty of room to have people view the game. There is a hill behind the team benches and another hilly area behind the far-ends that can be used to have families stay socially distant.. Obviously, families would not be allowed to sit in the bleachers which are off limits anyway.
What it all comes down to is if everyone is staying safe and if we are able to keep case numbers down like we have been; then families should be allowed to view outdoor sporting events.
