Ohio Governor Suggests All Indoor Sporting Events Be Held Without Fans in Attendance
The sporting world is taking precautions to avoid the potential spread of coronavirus. Limiting media access was one step and the more drastic move is to now not allow fans into an indoor arena.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine took that drastic step Tuesday by announcing that he is advising all indoor sporting events to go in with no fans in attendance.
BREAKING: Governor DeWine has announced he is advising indoor sporting events to eliminate spectators. @nbc4i
— Adrienne Robbins (@ARobbinsTV) March 10, 2020
Right now he is just advising. Yet decisions must be made quickly as the MAC Tournament is set to begin play Thursday, followed by NCAA Tournament games the following week. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Columbus Blue Jackets also have to make quick decisions regarding this announcement. Not to mention all the high school tournaments set to take place.
Governor Dewine has recommended that indoor sporting events have no spectators. That means MAC Tournament, OHSAA State Playoffs, NCAA Tournament in Cleveland. Doesn’t mean it’s official, but his recommendation.
— Jordan Strack (@JordanStrack) March 10, 2020
The thought of games going on in empty arenas is rather eerie, but it is hard to argue with taking extra precautions during these concerning times. Sports are something that can go on with no fans, despite the added allure that supporters bring to each game.
DeWine made it clear what he is advising. Now the pressure is on officials at all levels of sport to make quick decisions regarding upcoming games and tournaments. Not allowing fans inside an arena may not be a popular decision, but the games can still be viewed on television.