VALLEY CITY, N.D (vcsuvikings.com) – The Valley City State University Athletic Department announced Friday that fans will be allowed and encouraged to attend home athletic events during the fall sports season.After consultation with City-County Health and the North Dakota Department of Health, the decision has been made to allow fans up to 50 percent capacity of VCSU’s indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, said VCSU athletic director Jill DeVries. That could change depending on the state’s official risk level, which is currently at “low”.
“Our highest priority is the health and welfare of our student-athletes, staff, fans and community members,” said DeVries. “While we are excited to have fans at our games this year, we will be requiring them to follow guidelines that have been developed to promote a safe environment at VCSU events.”
“Our student-athletes want to play this season, and we feel these guidelines give us the best opportunity to continue our seasons,” said DeVries. “We ask fans to support our student-athletes by following these guidelines at our events.”
VCSU first home events are currently scheduled for Sept. 5 (volleyball), Sept. 17 (baseball) and Sept. 19 (football).
At the current “low” risk level, VCSU will allow 1,250 fans at home football games and 500 fans at home volleyball matches and baseball games. Volleyball matches will be played at the W.E. Osmon Fieldhouse to allow more spectators and more room for physical distancing. Fans at football, baseball and volleyball events this fall are asked to follow physical distancing guidelines.
Face coverings will be required for all attendees at indoor and outdoor events. Spectators who are unable to wear masks for health reasons are asked to physical distance themselves at the event, or consider watching the game through VCSU’s online video broadcast. VCSU will have face coverings available for purchase if spectator forgets to bring their own.
VCSU will not endorse tailgating this fall, and will not allow tailgating on VCSU property prior to home events this fall.
Fans will not be allowed on the court or field for postgame interactions with student-athletes. Spectators will not interact with game participants until after the event and outside of the competition facility.
Concessions will be available at most events, but will be limited to pre-packaged items.
Admission gates will open one hour prior to the event.
VCSU’s complete guidelines for athletic events and spectators can be found at: http://www.vcsuvikings.