Steuben, Yates will allow fans

FINGER LAKES--As high-risk high school sports have begun in most areas in New York state, COVID-19 has still impacted the protocols and rules for athletes and spectators alike. In Section V, the sporting division that includes 11 counties, Steuben and Yates had restrictions that did not allow any spectators at indoor events. These determinations were made by local health departments. However, Steuben updated their guidance, Thursday, Feb. 11 and Yates followed, Tuesday, Feb. 16.
In a statement, Steuben County said, "As we previously committed as a group, Steuben County, in partnership with school districts, has collectively reevaluated spectators at high-risk sporting events in this abbreviated season." It continues, "As a result of these conversations, and with the unanimous agreement of district superintendents, beginning Monday, Feb. 15, home team spectators, a maximum of two per athlete (with no more than 50 spectators total at a single event), are able to attend high-risk sporting events in Steuben County. Spectators must wear an acceptable face covering at all times in the facility."
Athletes will also still be required to wear a face-covering as well unless medically exempt.
Area schools, including Hammondsport, Dundee and Penn Yan had adapted to the no-spectator rule by broadcasting games on their social media channels or YouTube. For Hammondsport visit https://www.facebook.com/hammondsportschool, Dundee https://www.facebook.com/Dundee-Central-School-District-838236099614725 and Penn Yan https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC69OpAbUSsPrOnmmIbFIeWw.
For Yates County, spectators (two per player) will be allowed beginning Monday, Feb. 22.