The Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference gave their schools and athletic programs the choice to have fans in attendance.
Colorado Mesa University (CMU) made the collective decision to have fans attend with precautions. Fans getting tested before games, social distancing and mask wearing are the main precautions when going to a sporting event.
“I believe CMU has done an excellent job in protecting the campus and giving us the resources for the university to stay open. With the current protocol of making fans get tested there is probably not a safer place to hold a sporting event then on our campus. Our campus has done a fabulous job keeping everyone safe. Our student athletes definitely want fans. It is important to them for their families to come and see them play,” Athletic Director, Ryan Brooks said.
Athletes have had to adapt to changes this year, but the athletic department has done everything in their power to make sure that fans have been able to watch Maverick athletics.
“It has been a little different this year, but I think we have adjusted to the thought of playing in front of nobody. With that being said CMU has done everything possible to get fans in the stands. I think they understand the importance it has on our student athletes, our campus, and the community.”
The Athletic Department at CMU has made room for everyone to be safe during games, this includes fans and players. Coach Mike DeGeorge stated that he was on board for fan attendance as soon as CMU made the decision to be in person this semester.
“I think anything that returns us to a more normal experience that keeps us safe from COVID is important to do for our mental health. We’re comfortable from a health and safety perspective and it is fun to have some fans back at the games,” DeGeorge said.
The season would not be complete without the fans cheering on and each person involved in the decision was certain that CMU would do things safely.
“We had matches last weekend with a few fans. Playing in front of anyone is more fun. Our team is focused on making their own home court advantage with their energy and enthusiasm,” Women’s Volleyball Head Coach, David Fleming, said.
Families are also allowed to attend, which can boost the player’s morale. Playing for empty rooms is not what anyone wants and the Athletic Department was determined not to let that happen.
“I trust our administration that they are making the right call. It is also important for athletes to have their families there. This is not a journey our student-athletes have had on their own. Their families are a huge part of the journey and it is important that continues,” Fleming said.
At this time only a certain amount of people are allowed into sporting events. But with time hopefully Mavericks fans can pack the stands again.
