by Matt Wright
Thursday nights this fall on the Lakeland Prep campus will feel much different than years past. No more smoke from grills floating above the field from the concession area, no more gathering in groups to watch the Lions and no more large crowds to hear Sweet Caroline played over the loudspeakers before the 4th quarter.
Due to TSSAA and Shelby County health guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19, limited spectators will be allowed in the games this fall. Other limitations on the normal fanfare will also be in place. In a release issued by Lakeland Prep principle Matt Adler, safety was paramount in the decision. Mr. Adler said “Although the athletic contests may look different from a spectator perspective, our primary goal is to ensure that students can participate in athletic events while staying as safe as possible.”
Among the key points of the spectator plan for football are:
- Each football player and cheerleader will be allowed to purchase a maximum of four tickets for $10 each to distribute to their family members. Each ticket will be good for all home games.
- Visiting teams will each be allowed to purchase four tickets per player or cheerleader. Visiting tickets will be pre-sold at the visiting team’s school for $5 a piece. The ticket sold will be good for only that game.
- Each seating area for members of the same household will be 12 feet from other seating areas away from members of different households.
- All spectators will be required to wear masks at all times.
- Spectators will also undergo temperature checks and health screenings before entering Lion Field.
- Concessions will be sold but will be limited to pre-packaged individual items.
The Lions play some new teams this season including Briarcrest, ECS, Crestview and more. The full schedule is below.
