New Covid Sports Protocols

Sports have been a full go here at Healdsburg High School since the start of the school year with COVID initially not being too much of an issue. But within the first two weeks of the new semester, COVID cases spiked again and new protocols were put in place which affected the efforts of the fans to come out and show their school spirit. According to the new set of mandates put in place by the county, no more than 50 people are allowed to attend indoor sports games and activities, and this number includes the players, coaches, and referees. I got the perspective of Mike Edwards, more well known as Officer Mike, on his take about the sports indoor shutdown. “I'm done with this COVID stuff. I feel like if you want to be able to go to a game you should. If you are vaccinated, then good for you.”
Soccer is also affected by the updated COVID protocols. The limit on people allowed at games is higher since the games are outdoors, but there are requirements that soccer players have to go through to meet the protocols for participation. I got the point of view of senior soccer player, Yahir Ruiz, and what he and his team must go through to be COVID safe, and he stated, “I mean you have to test twice a week and wear a mask if you're on the bench during a game and wear masks during practice.” I also asked him his thoughts on having to do these safety precautions, to which he responded, “ I mean I don’t really mind, it's just annoying to test twice a week at specific times because if you miss them, you can’t play.”
The newer mandates are supposed to be reviewed by Sonoma County officials during the middle of this month. Hopefully, COVID cases decline enough so that number limits on gatherings increases, or is rescinded altogether, and the testing protocols are revised to make it easier for athletes to navigate them.