Park University has introduced a new spectator policy that allows some fans to watch their favorite Pirate athletes while respecting COVID-19 guidelines.

Starting Thursday, March 18, fans were allowed into home sporting events taking place at Breckon Sports Center, Comfort Field, Julian Field, and the Park Softball Complex. This represents a loosening of spectator guidelines, which had previously only allowed essential staff members to be present at games.

Anyone wishing to attend a game in person must be a Park University student with a  valid student ID or a family member of an athlete. Athletes are allowed a maximum of two family members in attendance per game. No spectators from the visiting team will be allowed to attend in person.

In order to attend in person, spectators must RSVP 24 hours before the event using a JotForm sent out by the athletics department, have their temperature checked at the venue, respect social distancing and wear a mask for the entire event. Capacity will be capped at 25 percent of the venue.

Park University baseball player Austin Sawyer was excited about the announcement. “Even though there are restrictions I’m glad that they were able to get fans at games again.”

Live online streaming or live statistics will still be available for all games at parkathletics.com.

Similarly, the International Center for Music has updated its concert attendance policies for the rest of the semester.

On Tuesday, March 23, the ICM welcomed a live audience for Ilya Shmukler’s graduate recital performances of Debussy and Rachmaninov.

Students, faculty and staff with a Park University ID, as well as members of the Park ICM Advisory Council, are able to attend concerts at the Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel. However, to attend, spectators must complete an RSVP form sent out by the ICM at least 24 hours in advance.

The Chapel will be capped at 25 percent capacity, and seats are filled on a first come-first served basis. Attendees must wear a mask the entire time they are on the Parkville campus.

The ICM will continue to provide a live video stream for all concerns at ICM.park.edu.