TCHS’ sports games are resuming, provided that athletes and fans stay six feet apart in order to accommodate social distancing measures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“If anything, the coronavirus and social distancing are helping the players,” coach Iso Lation said. “We’re starting to learn long distance passing (six feet) and player injuries should not exist due to the absence of physical contact, thanks to social distancing measures.”
Referees will be strictly enforcing social distancing rules and pulling violaters out with a six-foot pole. Jerseys have also been modified to have sensors attached, which will sound when players are within 6 feet of one another. In addition, normalities such as the group huddles and sit-out benches will be temporarily stopped.
“I actually appreciate this new six-feet rule,” sophomore Quara Teen said. “In the past, fans have been very distracting. Now, there are only a few of them scattered about every six feet. Hopefully all the annoying cheering and support will finally disappear!”
Personal transportation will also be required, since the packed nature of buses would violate social distancing measures. Also, sports fans must purchase tickets through PayPal or Venmo at the gate in order to prevent person-to-person contact.
“I’m so glad that sports games are able to continue in the face of this pandemic,” coach Ress Pirator said. “The students really appreciate being out on the field bonding with teammates and playing the sport they love. If the season ended abruptly, I’m sure they would all be devastated.”