Another result of the Coronavirus scare

[sox83cubs84]

The concern over the spread of COVID19 now has gained an unfortunate, but legitimate foothold in the sports collecting realm.

An article on the 12up website has reported that the New York Yankees players, coaches, and manager had a discussion regarding fan contact during the COVID19 scare. As a result, the Yankees recommended that players, at least for now, stop signing autographs for fans at the ballpark due to concerns about transmitting and/or contracting the disease. Apparently, many people on the Yankees plan to take that advice and stop avoiding autograph signing in person, although others will keep signing for fans at games, with Luke Voit so far being the most vocal in declaring that he's still on board with signing for fans in-person.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

A report from the Associated Press states that the league offices of both the NHL and NBA have issued a memo to all of their teams regarding fan/player contact in light of the COVID19 crisis.

The NHL was a bit vague about it, urging the players to avoid contact with the fans on a general basis. However, the memo was more specific from the NBA, as in addition to not signing autographs, players are told not to high-five fans nor strangers.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

It seems a few MLB teams have found a way to semi-circumvent the fan contact edict from MLB as far as COVID19 issues go.

The Giants, Nationals, and Indians have opted to have players pre-sign baseball cards, baseballs and other types of items, after which they will be distributed to fans. However. MLB is warning all teams against traditional fan/player face to face meetings to sign what the fans ask them to. To that end, fans will temporarily be prohibited from bringing their own items at MLB games and/or gatherings.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

It looks like the restrictions placed on fans in having contact with players. The NHL, NBA, MLB and ALS have all temporarily introduced a policy where the only individuals allowed access to locker rooms and team clubhouses will be the players themselves and other team personnel. Until the COVID19 scare ends, individuals such as family and friends, media members and agents will be prohibited from entry. My only question is: who will be the first agent or sports media figure who angrily respond to a security employee by playing the "Don't you know who I am?" card.

Dave Miedema

[1929tudor]

what about the sports show and autographed guests? the one in Chicago this weekend maybe should be cancelled

[sox83cubs84]

I haven't been made aware of any such news about the show yet. Your question, however, is a valid one, especially in regards to fan/athlete contact during the autograph sessions. The concept, in terms of the current health scare, makes total sense. The only frowny faces would come from fans unaware of the show organizer's actions and, sadly, a few of the more profit-driven dealers, who would squawk because the show's attendance would likely plummet with no autograph guests. Your reasoning is spot on; I'm just not sure how show promoters will respond, both here and at other shows.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Apparently, at least a few teams in both the NHL and MLB are contemplating their games being played either without fans or in another location.

So far, at least 2 NHL teams have been approached by local and/or state government about playing their home games without fans. The Columbus Blue Jackets, despite the recommendation coming from the Governor of Ohio, have declined, for now. The San Jose Sharks, however, are considering this move.

In MLB, the Seattle Mariners are mulling several options, including playing their 2020 home games at their spring training facility in Arizona for at least part of the season, given that the Seattle area has so far been the most affected metropolitan area in the USA.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

More updates:

MLS is postponing their season for a minimum of 30 days.

The San Jose Sharks and Columbus Blue Jackets will play home games, but with no fan in the seats.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

As of 3:30 PM on 3/12, the Chicago Sports Spectacular website still plans to hold their event. However, as of this point in time 19 autograph guests have cancelled their appearance due to the COVID19 pandemic. This is up from 11 cancellations just this morning.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Just in: MLB has decided to cancel all remaining spring training games and also to delay the start of the 2020 regular season by at least 2 weeks.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

As of 3:30 PM on 3/12, the Chicago Sports Spectacular website still plans to hold their event. However, as of this point in time 19 autograph guests have cancelled their appearance due to the COVID19 pandemic. This is up from 11 cancellations just this morning.

Dave Miedema


After mandates issued by Illinois Gov. Jerry Pritzker, this even was cancelled based on crowd size restrictions. The show was officially shut down Thursday evening while a number of dealers were using the evening for early table/booth set-up. No word as of now as to whether the event is totally cancelled or whether it'll be held at a later date.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Also now on the sports-related cancellation list:

Upcoming PGA and LPGA golf tournaments, including the Masters in early April.

The Football Hall of Fame Fan Fest, scheduled for next weekend. However, the general museum grounds are still scheduled to remain open.

Both NASCAR and the Indy Car Series both plan to hold the next racing event for each one, but without fans in the stands.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The ECHL has announced the cancellation of the remainder of their regular season plus their playoffs. The AHL has not made an official announcement as of yet, but is considering doing likewise.

Meanwhile, the UFC circuit has announced that only a full government shutdown will cause them to postpone or cancel UFC bouts.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

It looks like offseason activities in the NFL are also being affected. While free agency is still a go, the draft, scheduled for late April, may be postponed, as the Las Vegas casinos owned by MGM and Caesar's are shutting down, with neither planning to re-open until May 1.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The latest sports event to be cancelled due to the COVID19 pandemic is the 2020 World Hockey Championship. This was announced by the International Ice Hockey Foundation, and applies to the event scheduled for May 8-24.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The world was put on notice that the Summer 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo have been postponed until as yet unspecified dates in 2021.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

It was reported a few hours ago that if MLB is active again at the time, the 3-game series in London between the Cubs and Cardinals has been cancelled in terms of being played in the great British city.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Also recently announced is the postponement of the Indianapolis 500. The new date for the race is now August 23.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

In the nation where the pandemic began, the Chinese Basketball Association, in which about 40 Americans play, has delayed their planned resumption of their season, pushing it back from early April to sometime in May.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

While a number of sports personalities have tested positive for COVID19, the virus has now affected two bigger names in sports.

Knicks/New York Rangers owner James Dolan has apparently tested positive for COVID 19, as has Jacksonville Jaguars legend Tony Boselli. In Boselli's case, the virus caused him to be hospitalized and placed in ICU.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

If you're an oldie but a goodie (like me), you'll remember an NFL kicker named Tom Dempsey. Now 73 and being treated for Alzheimer's and dementia. It was announced that he contracted COVID19 a few days ago. Fortunately he has apparently recovered

Dave Miedema.

[sox83cubs84]

It was reported today that the greatest event in the tennis world...Wimbledon...has been postponed.

Dave Miedema

[tom1315]

If you're an oldie but a goodie (like me), you'll remember an NFL kicker named Tom Dempsey. Now 73 and being treated for Alzheimer's and dementia. It was announced that he contracted COVID19 a few days ago. Fortunately he has apparently recovered

Dave Miedema.Dave I recall this Saints kicker...held the record for longest FG made for many years...so glad he has recovered!

Tom

[sox83cubs84]

The PGA has announced that the British Open has been postponed.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi has implemented a public event ban on the Canadian city that will run through June 30. This ban includes sporting events, which means that even if the NHL or the CFL as a league resumes their schedule, the Flames and Stampeders could not play any home games in Calagry until the ban expires.

The city of Toronto also implemented a public event ban a few days ago that also is in effect through June 30; however, theirs does not include sports events.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Dave I recall this Saints kicker...held the record for longest FG made for many years...so glad he has recovered!

Tom

Sadly, the news of Dempsey's recovery was premature, as he succumbed to COVID19 this weekend.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Initially determined to continue operating and ride the pandemic out, UFC has retreated from that position and is temporarily suspending bouts.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

In the latest news in the world of sports, the 2020 Hall of Fame induction ceremonies have been cancelled. The plan is to wait until 2021 to draw fans and players to Cooperstown, at which time both the 2020 and 2021 inductees will be honored.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Now postponed until further notice: the 40th anniversary of the 1980 USA Miracle On Ice hockey team, which was scheduled for Las Vegas. The reunion will be held, but the current plan would be in late summer.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The NFL has officially announced that, due to COVID19 and problematic travel issues as a result of it, all NFL games originally scheduled to be played outside the U.S. have been relocated back to the U.S.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The IIHF has announced that the qualifying round games for the Beijing Olympics in 2022 have been postponed. The hockey qualifiers have been moved to August 2021.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

In like manner as the NFL has already done, the NHL has also opted not to play any games in Europe during the 2020-21 season. This eliminates plans for 2 NHL teams to hold their training camps in Europe. Also moved back to North America are regular season games scheduled to be played in Prague and Helsinki.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Earlier this week, Euroleague...the top European BSKB league, considered by many to be second in quality in terms of pro hoops leagues to the NBA, has decided to cancel the remainder of their current season, and to host no playoffs.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame has announced the cancellation of their August 2020 induction ceremony. It will now be held on an as yet unspecified date in spring 2021.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has warned MLBPA president Tony Clark that he's considering shutting down the Show for the remainder of the 2020 season due to so many players not following the MLB rules regarding COVID19. Specifically mentioned were players high-fiving each other and sitting in the dugout near each other and not wearing masks. Manfred wants to see the players' respect and adherence to COVID19 protocol improve sharply over this weekend, and, while no specific date has been set to do so, if the players keep ignoring the adherence to COVID19 rules, the season could be declared to be over and done with by Manfred possibly as early as Monday.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Some encouraging news from the NHL in regard to COVID19:

For the week of 7/27-81, NHL players, coaches and other employees of the league were tested over 7,000 times. COVID19 positive tests: 0.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Back to bad COVID19 news: the Field of Dreams MLB game between the White Sox and the Cardinals has been cancelled due to, at least in part, the pandemic. MLB tried to blame the cancellation on "logistical problems", a reason which very few fans and sportswriters took seriously. The event now is schedule to take place in 2021.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Green Bay Packers have announced that their first two home games at Lambeau Field will be played without fans being allowed inside. The status of all home games after these two has yet to be determined.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The entire 3-game series this weekend in St. Louis between the Cardinals and the Cubs has been cancelled due to the continued outbreak of COVID19 positive tests in the Cardinals organization. It's not been decided if the 3 games will be made up, although any such make-up games between the two teams will have to be played at Wrigley Field, as this was the only road trip to Busch Stadium scheduled for the 2020 Cubs in the revised schedule.

The Cardinals haven't played a game since July 29.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The latest sports league to cancel their 2020 season is the Big Sky Conference of the NCAA. Big Sky announced earlier in the week that they were shutting down their football season for 2020.

The Big Sky Conference has 13 teams whose home universities are spread across the western half of the United States.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

NCAA Football has lost another conference that has cancelled the 2020 season due to pandemic concens. The MAC (Mid-America Conference) is the latest to fall.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The entire 3-game series this weekend in St. Louis between the Cardinals and the Cubs has been cancelled due to the continued outbreak of COVID19 positive tests in the Cardinals organization. It's not been decided if the 3 games will be made up, although any such make-up games between the two teams will have to be played at Wrigley Field, as this was the only road trip to Busch Stadium scheduled for the 2020 Cubs in the revised schedule.

The Cardinals haven't played a game since July 29.

Dave Miedema

The COVID19 nightmare for the Cardinals continues, as their 3-game set with the Pirates (8/10-12) has been postponed to allow the team to conduct further Coronavirus testing of their employees.

Their next scheduled games after these would be a twin-bill with Detroit on 8/13. Assuming that St. Louis is given clearance to resume playing games in time for Thursday's twin-bill, in order to complete the entire 60-game, the team would have to play their remaining 55 games in 49 days.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The COVID19 nightmare for the Cardinals continues, as their 3-game set with the Pirates (8/10-12) has been postponed to allow the team to conduct further Coronavirus testing of their employees.

Their next scheduled games after these would be a twin-bill with Detroit on 8/13. Assuming that St. Louis is given clearance to resume playing games in time for Thursday's twin-bill, in order to complete the entire 60-game, the team would have to play their remaining 55 games in 49 days.

Dave Miedema


The never ending story continues for the poor baseball Cardinals. The doubleheader against Detroit mentioned in my previous update has now been postponed as well, and again due to the team pursing addition COVID19 testing on their employees.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Some encouraging news from the NHL in regard to COVID19:

For the week of 7/27-81, NHL players, coaches and other employees of the league were tested over 7,000 times. COVID19 positive tests: 0.

Dave Miedema

For the third straight week, the NHL has announced that there have been no members of the league who have tested positive for COVID 19. This pleasant string of success is the same as during the week prior, and which actually began before the resumption of games, during the time frame in which players and other traveling personnel headed for the hub cities were all postseason games are being played.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Another NCAA sports conference has pulled the plug on their 2020 football season, this time being the Mountain West Conference.

Something worse could become reality in as little as a few days. While no official decision has made yet, the possibility of the Big 10 joining the list of conferences to shut down football in 2020 has become stronger over the last few days. While it isn't the first college FB entity to declare 2020 football to be DOA, they would be the first household name conference to do so.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The hammer has fallen again. The Big Ten deciding to cancel their 2020 football season is no longer rumor, but is now fact. The only possible saving grace is the Big Ten, like a few of the FB conferences that have already written of a fall college football season, hasn't ruled out playing the "2020" season in spring of 2021.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

A second Power 5 NCAA football conference has followed the lead of the Big Ten and put the kibosh on their 2020 season. Joining the Big 10 in that group now is the Pac-12.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The never ending story continues for the poor baseball Cardinals. The doubleheader against Detroit mentioned in my previous update has now been postponed as well, and again due to the team pursing addition COVID19 testing on their employees.

Dave Miedema

COVID-19 concerns have now postponed the Cardinals game on Friday in Chicago against the White Sox. However, there may now be some light at the end of the tunnel. Word comes that if the Redbirds can avoid any new positive tests related to team personnel, then they may be cleared to resume games, which would start with a twin-bill at Comiskey Park against the Chisox on Saturday.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

It was announced this weekend that the HOF induction ceremonies scheduled for later this year have been postponed, with the induction ceremonies being moved to May 2021.

The class of 2020-21 includes three of the greatest NBA superstars of their era: the late Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Canceled sports seasons have not ventured north of our border due to COVID19. The Canadian Football League has announced a shutdown of the upcoming campaign.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The NFL Seattle Seahawks have announce that, due to COVID19, their first 33 home games will be played in an empty stadium with no fans admitted.

I'm sad at true Seahawks and NFL fans being denied admittance, but look at the bright side...no Antifa thugs will be let in the gates, either.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two positive COVID19 tests within the Mets organization (one player and one staffer) have resulted in the team's games today and Friday to be postponed.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two positive COVID19 tests within the Mets organization (one player and one staffer) have resulted in the team's games today and Friday to be postponed.

Dave Miedema

The positive tests have resulted in the remainder of the weekend series between the Mets and Yankees (Saturday and Sunday) to be postpones as well.

Dave

[sox83cubs84]

While the Kentucky Derby is still on track to be run on 9/5 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, the powers that be in organizing the event have changed their plans regarding admitting fans. Instead of a limited quantity of fans being allowed inside for the race, that has now been changed to no fans being admitted.

\Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The COVID19 pandemic has now moved past the realm of the current MLB season and into other MLB-related locations.

The Astros organization has opted to temporarily close their alternate training site in Corpus Christi, TX, after an individual on site tested positive for COVID19. The individual is NOT a member of the team's major league roster, nor are they a person who regularly travels with the MLB Astros.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

A recent iimited number of COVID19 positive tests at Vanderbilt University has prompted officials there to briefly suspend football-related activities on a precautionary basis, mostly involving team practices, The school's NCAA opener doesn't occur until 9/26.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The COVID19 pandemic has now moved past the realm of the current MLB season and into other MLB-related locations.

The Astros organization has opted to temporarily close their alternate training site in Corpus Christi, TX, after an individual on site tested positive for COVID19. The individual is NOT a member of the team's major league roster, nor are they a person who regularly travels with the MLB Astros.

Dave Miedema


The alternate site was reopened today (8/25).

Dave

[sox83cubs84]

The Oakland Athletics will resume play on 9/4 after being idle since the previous Sunday due to a staff member testing positive for COVID19.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has given his blessing to a crowd variance for two home games for each of Ohio's two NFL teams. This would allow both the Bengals and Browns to admit 6,000 fans for each game instead of the COVID19-inspired limit of only 1,500.

For the Bengals, the home games include 10/4 and 10/25.

The Browns will allow fans in for games on 9/17 and 9/27.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Some good news: since entering the bubbles, there have been no positive COVID19 tests for any players or staff in the NHL. This makes 7 straight weeks with no positive tests.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

It's been announced that the Friday and Saturday games between the Giants and the Padres have been postponed due to a positive COVID19 test in the Giants organization.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

An outbreak of COVID19 among individuals connected with the team has caused the Memphis Tigers to cancel their 9/18 college football game with the Houston Cougars.

Seeking to fill the suddenly empty space on their schedule, Houston is currently negotiating with Baylor University to play them in Waco that weekend.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The hammer has fallen again. The Big Ten deciding to cancel their 2020 football season is no longer rumor, but is now fact. The only possible saving grace is the Big Ten, like a few of the FB conferences that have already written of a fall college football season, hasn't ruled out playing the "2020" season in spring of 2021.

Dave Miedema

If you're a fan of Big 10 football, there's some good news (finally). In a unanimous vote, and with strict medical protocols regarding COVID19, the conference has announced that it will play an abbreviated 2020 season, with games beginning on the weekend of 10/23-24.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Tennessee Titans will allow fans to attend their 3 home games in October. The team will allow 15% of capacity for admitting fans for the first game, then 20% for the second game, and 25% for the third gamee.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The NFL, after Week 1, has had no positive tests for COVID19.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Saturday college football game between Notre Dame and Wake Forest has been postponed due to several positive COVID19 tests on the Fighting Irish roster.

Both teams have an open date the following weekend; however, it's not been confirmed if both teams will make the game up then.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans will finally have a chance to seeTom Brady leading the Bucs offfense in person, as the team announced that, beginning with their Week 4 game, the Bucs will open the stadium to a limited number of fans for the game.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Saturday college football game between Notre Dame and Wake Forest has been postponed due to several positive COVID19 tests on the Fighting Irish roster.

Both teams have an open date the following weekend; however, it's not been confirmed if both teams will make the game up then.

Dave Miedema

There won't be a Notre Dame/Wake Forest game this coming weekend, either. Reports are that 39 players from Notre Dame either positive tests for COVID19, are in quarantine because of it, or have had contact recently with someone affected with the virus.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

After 8 positive COVID19 tests (3 players and 5 staff members) caused the Tennessee Titans to suspend all football activities a couple of days ago.

Now, after a fourth Titans player tested positive, the Sunday game between the Titans and the Steelers has been postponed. Expectations are that the game will be played on either Monday or Tuesday next week.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Sunday's NFL game between the Patriots and Chiefs has been postponed until Monday or Tuesday after players from both teams tested positive for COVID19,

Of course, this postponement isn't written in stone. The first time this arrangement was attempted, the 2 teams involved...Pttsburgh and Tennessee...ended up with additional positive tests on Titans personnel, and now the game has been pushed back to 10/25.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

After a recent spike in positive tests for COVID19 in the Green Bay area and in Wisconsin in general, Packers management is putting a hold of undetermined length in regards to allowing fans into Lambeau Field to watch Packers home games.

Dave Miiedema

[sox83cubs84]

Saturday's Conference USA football game with Southern Mississippi hosting Florida Atlantic has been postponed due to COVID19 related problems.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Today's game between the Patriots and Broncos was postponed due to another positive test for COVID19 from a member of the Pats. The game will be played next Sunday.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

As of this coming Sunday, the Philadelphia Eagles will resume bringing fans in to their home games. Crowds will be limited to 7,500 each game.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Mountain West Conference of NCAA football has cancelled Colorado State's home opener on 10//24 against New Mexico due to COVID19 problems.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Some good news: the state of California and the 49ers have reached an agreement. As a result, the Niners will be permitted to admit fans for the rest of the season at 20% of Levi Stadium capacity.

[sox83cubs84]

The NHL has announced that the annual Winter Classic game, held outdoors every New Year's Day, and with the Wild hosting the Blues, has been cancelled based on COVID19 concerns. Likewise, All-Star Weekend, to be hosted by the Florida Panthers near the end of January, has also been cancelled for similar reasons.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two more NFL teams have announced the dates and maximum crowds for their first home games in which fans are admitted.

The Washington Redskins (I don't play the PC game) will allow 3,000 fans in for their 11/8 home game against the Giants.

One week earlier (11/1) the Baltimore Ravens will allow 6,000 fans when they host the Steelers.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

An announcement has been made by the NCAA that December's Holiday Bowl game has been cancelled due to the pandemic.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

NCAA football has again been affected by COVID19. The Coronavirus has caused the cancellation of the East-West Shrine Bowl game on 1/23/21.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The customary parade and celebration for the World Series winners, in this case the Los Angeles Dodgers, has been postponed indefinitely due to lingering concerns regarding the pandemic.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

A COVID19 outbreak on the Nebraska NCAA football team has led to a cancellation of this coming weekend's game with Wisconsin.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

An outbreak of COVID19 positives on players and staff members of the Wisconsin Badgers has caused a cancellation of their Big Ten football game against Purdue.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two more Saturday NCAA football games will not be played due to positive COVID19 tests. Army/Air Force and Tulsa/Navy have fallen by the wayside.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Add Utah/Arizona to the mix of Saturday games not being played due to a run of positive COVID19 tests.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

After being on the verge of doing so, Gillette Stadium and the New England Patriots have back tracked, announcing that they will not be admitting fans to watch Patriots games for the rest of the season.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Ivy League has announced that they will be cancelling their winter sports schedules for 2020-21, including men's and women's basketball. They are the first NCAA Division 1 conference to issue a blanket shutdown of this nature.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two of college football's Saturday games have been shelved due to COVID19. These include Utah at UCLA and also Ohio State at Maryland.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

New lockdown orders for COVID19 by Gov. Whitmer (D-MI) have resulted in the Detroit Lions being required to play their annual Thanksgiving for 2020 without any fans in the stands.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two Pac-10 NCAA FB games set for Saturday...Washington State/Stanford and Arizona State/Colorado...will not be played due to COVID19 outbreaks on one of the participating teams in each game.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

It's been announced that the beginning of the NBA 2020-21 season will find the Toronto Raptors playing their home games in Tampa, FL due to COVID19 restrictions in Canada. How long this setup will go has not been determined at this time.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

As late as this morning, SEC fans woke up to the news that the Clemson/Florida State football game had also bitten the dust for COVID19-related reasons.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Friday's annual Pac-10 rivalry game between Washington and Washington State has been cancelled and declared a no-contest due to COVID19 issues.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

OVID19 concerns have caused a postponement of an off-field MLB event. This time the affected event is the meeting of the MLB HOF Veterans Committee that was schedule for the Golden Era players.


Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

If you tuned in to NBC earlier this evening expecting the Steelers/Ravens prime time game and saw something else, you're not alone. Based on COVID19 problems affecting the Ravens, the game has been postponed and will be played on Sunday 11/29.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Several NCAA football games for this weekend have either been postponed or outright cancelled based on COVID19 problems. These include:

USC/Colorado
Oklahoma/West Virginia
Wisconsin/Minnesota
Utah/Arizona State

The Oklahoma/West Virginia game has been rescheduled for 12/12.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two NCAA basketball teams have decided to postpone their first 4 home games of the season based on COVID19 problems. This affects the Ole Miss mens' team and UConn's female hoopsters.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Due ti a temporary law initiated by Santa Clara County (CA), the 49ers will be temporarily kicked out of Levi Stadium for their first 2 home games in December.

The law prohibits pro or college sports from hosting games or having practices in sports where direct bodily contact is common. The law goes into effect this coming Monday and runs through 12/21.

The temporary law also affects San Jose State, Stanford, and the San Jose Sharks (NHL).

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Due ti a temporary law initiated by Santa Clara County (CA), the 49ers will be temporarily kicked out of Levi Stadium for their first 2 home games in December.

The law prohibits pro or college sports from hosting games or having practices in sports where direct bodily contact is common. The law goes into effect this coming Monday and runs through 12/21.

The temporary law also affects San Jose State, Stanford, and the San Jose Sharks (NHL).

Dave Miedema

There is a decent possibility that the games that the 49ers can't play in their own stadium may be relocated to the Arizona Cardinals' home field. The Cardinals are willing to do this, but other hurdles need to be cleared to make this official.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

If you tuned in to NBC earlier this evening expecting the Steelers/Ravens prime time game and saw something else, you're not alone. Based on COVID19 problems affecting the Ravens, the game has been postponed and will be played on Sunday 11/29.

Dave Miedema

The game has been postponed again, now set for 12/2. This has caused a reschedulng of all of the remaining Ravens games for the season.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

It was announced this weekend that the HOF induction ceremonies scheduled for later this year have been postponed, with the induction ceremonies being moved to May 2021.

The class of 2020-21 includes three of the greatest NBA superstars of their era: the late Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett.

Dave Miedema

The weekend of the induction ceremonies have now been confirmed as May 13-15, 2021.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

The Big Ten football game between Northwestern and Minnesota scheduled for later this week has been cancelled due to a COVID19 outbreak in the Gophers' football program.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

On the heels of the announcement of the cancellation of the Las Vegas Bowl, both the Rose Bowl and the Fiesta Bowl have been directed by their respective state governments that, if the games are played, no fans are to be admitted.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

It looks like Mike and Vanessa Baxter (Last Man Standing) won't be talking any trash to each other this weekend regarding Ohio State (Vanessa's alma mater) and Michigan (Mike's), as COVD19 has wiped out this annual rivalry contest.

Also being cancelled due to the Coronavirus (so far) are Cincinnati/Tulsa and Texas A&M/Ole Miss.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two more Saturday matchups, both title and/or ranking-related, both NCAA but in different sports, have been reported.

The Pac-12 North title game between Washington and Oregon has been cancelled due to pandemic-related issues.

So has the basketball game pitting #1 Gonzaga against #2 Baylor. The game will be rescheduled at a later date.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two more Saturday matchups, both title and/or ranking-related, both NCAA but in different sports, have been reported.

The Pac-12 North title game between Washington and Oregon has been cancelled due to pandemic-related issues.

So has the basketball game pitting #1 Gonzaga against #2 Baylor. The game will be rescheduled at a later date.

Dave Miedema

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Washington Redskins, after experimenting with allowing small crowds of fans into their home games, has reversed course and have opted to not admit fans to their remaining home games of the current season.


Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

For Sunday's game at Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indianapolis Colts have opted to reduce the maximum attendance from 12,500 to 10,000. A recent spike of COVID19 cases in Indiana is said to be the cause for the decision.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

There is a decent possibility that the games that the 49ers can't play in their own stadium may be relocated to the Arizona Cardinals' home field. The Cardinals are willing to do this, but other hurdles need to be cleared to make this official.

Dave M.


Santa Clara County in California has extended the duration of the COVID19 special regulations mentioned above. One of perhaps several results of this is the 49ers will not play any more NFL games in Levi Stadium for the duration of the current season.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Recent NHL COVID19 news:

The extension of several pandemic-related laws has now caused the San Jose Sharks to follow the NFL 49ers to Arizona for both preseason camp and an undetermined number of early season games.

The Dallas Stars have announced that they are planning to admit 5,000 fans per game during the upcoming season.

The 7 teams located in Canada will not likely be allowed to travel to the US for road games, nor will American teams get the OK to go to the Great White North to play games either. In fact, the government of British Columbia will not allow any teams to fly into Vancouver for games, nor will they allow the Canucks to travel on the road for any contests.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two positive COVID19 tests from employees of the Detroit Lions organization have prompted the team to close their practice facilities. As of now, there are no plans for the Lions to postpone or cancel their game this coming weekend.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Opening Night NBA game between Houston and Oklahoma City was postponed due to a wave of COVID19 positive tests on the Rockets. Only 8 players were available before the game.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Good news and bad news from Cleveland.

The good news is:

Based on a crowd size variance passed by the State of Ohio, the NBA Cavaliers have increased their maximum crowd size for games from 300 to 2,000.

The bad news is:

The NFL Browns have had to close their facilities temporarily due to a surge of COVID19 cases among team employees.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two NHL teams have announced their plans to seat fans for their home games:

The Florida Panthers will open the season with a capacity limit of 25%, which is roughly 5,000 fans.

The Coyotes will begin their schedule with about 3,500 fans per game to be admitted for the first month of the season. The team will work with state officials in Arizona to review monthly in terms of increasing or decreasing the crowd size limits.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Green Bay Packers, hosting a divisional round playoff game at Lambeau Field, announced that they will allow as many as 6,000 fans in to watch the game.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Today's NBA game between Boston and Miami was postponed due to the Heat being unable to field a team due to COVID19.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Today's NBA game between Boston and Miami was postponed due to the Heat being unable to field a team due to COVID19.

Dave Miedema

The Celtics' COVID19 breakout will postpone another game, this one being Tuesday night against the Bulls.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Based on COVID19 protocol established by the State of Pennsylvania, the Pittsburgh Penguins will not be admitting fans to any of the 4 home games they play during January.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

MLB has indicated that, for the 2921 season, fans will NOT be subjected to COVID19 protocol in regards to vaccinations, testing and related exams.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The big event on the WWE scheduled, Wrestlemania 37, has been postponed and moved to a new location.

Originally scheduled for Los Angeles late next month, COVID19 concerns, mainly the roughly 1 million positive tests in the area, the event is now planned for April 10-11 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Saturday's NCAA basketball game between Illinois and Michigan State has been postponed due to an outbreak of COVID19 positive tests on the Spartans.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

A COVID19 outbreak on the Memphis Grizzlies has caused the postponement of their Wednesday game against the Bulls.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The NHL Carolina Hurricane's next game is being postponed due to COVID19 problems. This will be the 4th consecutive game for the team that was postpones due to the pandemic. Carolina has now rescheduled 7 upcoming games as a result.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

This one's a bit different. The Miami Heat will subject their fans to a sniff test. Dogs trained to detect COVID19 in humans will use their heightened sense of smell to examine fans before they are admitted.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

After another player and a coach entered COVID19 protocol, the Las Vegas Golden Knights were forced to postpone tonight's game against St. Louis.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

While the jury is still out on the regular season, officials in Arizona have given the Cubs the OK to admit fans to Sloan Park for 2021 spring training, with maximum capacity at 25%.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Some good news out of New York:

Gov. Cuomo has given all pro sports teams in the state the go-ahead to admit fans to their games. I'll add to this tomorrow with specifics.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Some good news out of New York:

Gov. Cuomo has given all pro sports teams in the state the go-ahead to admit fans to their games. I'll add to this tomorrow with specifics.

Dave Miedema

The specifics:

All teams in New York state will be allowed to admit fans up to 10% crowd capacity, as long as the stadium/arena's total seating capacity is over 10,000.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Two teams based in Arizona for spring training have announced their decisions to admit fans for games in their home ballparks in the Phoenix area.

The Brewers will admit fans up to a maximum crowd of 2,300, while the Dodgers will allow 2,400 fans for their games.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

MLB has indicated that, for the 2921 season, fans will NOT be subjected to COVID19 protocol in regards to vaccinations, testing and related exams.

Dave Miedema

Brain fart...s/b 2021.

Dave

[sox83cubs84]

A positive test for COVID19 and subsequent contact tracing on the Spurs roster has caused San Antonio's game with Detroit on 2/16 to be postponed.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Miami Marlins CEO Derek Jeter has announced that 2021 Marlins home games would be admitting fans up to a maximum of about 9,300 per game.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The NBA scheduled a game on the fly on 2/17, with the Pistons visiting Chicago to play the Bulls.

The unplanned game came about due to the postponement of scheduled game for both Chicago and Detroit. The Bulls were to play a road game in Charlotte tomorrow night, but contract tracing related to COVID19 on the Hornets postponed that matchup. The Pistons game in Dallas was also postponed, but not due to pandemic-related reason, but for extreme weather condition in Dallas.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Beginning on 2/23, the New York Rangers, the New York Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets will be allowed to admit fans to their home games up to 10% of crowd capacity.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Milwaukee Brewers have been in touch with Milwaukee health officials and have asked to have crowds up to 35% capacity when regular season home games begin.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

In conversations with Ohio Governor DeWine, both the Indians and Reds are planning to open the 2021 season with admitting fans up to roughly 30% of capacity each game.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Thursday night's NHL game between the Sharks and the Golden Knights was postponed due to a Sharks player undergoing COVID19 protocol.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Toronto Raptors, currently playing their home games in Tampa, FL, have had their Tuesday game against Detroit moved to Wednesday.

This comes on the heels of postponing their 2/28 game against the Bulls. Both games were not played due to positive tests and contract tracing on the Raptors team.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The State of California has authorized the resumption of a limited number of fans to outdoor sports events, effectibe 4/1/21...just in time for Opening Day of the 2021 MLB season.

One odd aspect of the decision that may be difficult to enfforce, however: the fans seeing the events must be residents of California.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Both the Cubs and White Sox have reached an agreement with Chicago government and will be given the OK to admit fans to games up to 20% capacity. That translates to 8,000 fans or a bit more.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Gov. Abbott (R-TX) has approved a request for the Rangers home opener at Globe Life to 100% capacity for that game. After the opener Texas will resume admitting a limited number of fans.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Baltimore Orioles have announced that their 2021 season at Camden Yards will begin with fans being admitted up to a limit of 25% capacity.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

An agreement with local DC government entities has resulted in the Washington Nationals being given the OK to begin their 2021 home season with admitting fans up to a limit of 5,000 per game.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The embattled governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, has scored a win with Mets and Yankees fans by agreeing to allow both teams to resume admitting fans to home games in 2021, with a maximum of 20% capacity.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

In an unprecedented event, Virginia Commonwealth University exited March Madness without playing a game. VCU had their game against Oregon declared a "no contest" due to multiple positive COVID19 tests among the players on the team. As a result, Oregon advances, and VCU is done for the season.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Beginning in April, the Miami Heat will make 2 lower levels seating sections available for any fans who have received their full quantity of COVID19 vaccinations.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The relocation of 2021 Toronto Blue Jays home games to their spring training home in Dunedin FL, prompted by COVID19 protocol, has been extended to all home games in April and May.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Opening Day turned out to be a bummer for fans of both the Nationals and the Mets, as the game was postponed due to COVID19 protocols on the Nats. Friday is an off day, and the hope is that the two teams will play on Saturday; however, that's not a certainty at the moment.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Opening Day turned out to be a bummer for fans of both the Nationals and the Mets, as the game was postponed due to COVID19 protocols on the Nats. Friday is an off day, and the hope is that the two teams will play on Saturday; however, that's not a certainty at the moment.

Dave Miedema

Today it was announced that due to the situation cited in my original post, the entire series has now been postponed.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

The COVID19 issues that wiped out the Nats' opening series at home against the Mets has now also postgponed Monday's game in DC against the Braves.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Some good news: If you're a WWE fan, Raymond James Stadium in Tampa will be admitting 25,000 fans for Wrestlemania.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Capital One Arena will begin allowing fans in to a limit of 10% capacity for both of their DC tenants, the Wizards and the Capitals..

The Wizards will resuming admitting fans on 4/21, with the Caps doing likewise on 4/27.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

The Buffalo Bills plan to allow full capacity for their home games in 2021, with the only caveat being that fans will only be admitted inside with proof of receiving their COVID19 vaccination.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Travel restrictions and other issues related to COVID19 have resulted in the Canadian Hockey League cancelling their 2021 Memorial Cup.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

A player on the Twins tested positive for COVID19 on Friday. As a result, the remaining two games in the current Twins/Angels series have been postponed.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

The weekend NCAA baseball series between Louisville and Pitt has been cancelled due to COVID19 issues with Pitt. There are no plans to play these games later in the season.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Atlanta Braves announced that, as of May 7, they will admit full capacity in terms of fans with tickets to home games again.

While the Texas Rangers did this for Opening Day earlier this month, the Braves will be the first team to do this on a permanent basis in MLB.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Earlier today, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that, effective on May 7, both of the United Center sports tenants, the Blackhawks and the Bulls, will be given the OK to resume admitting fans for their games up to 25% capacity.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Some good news from Louisiana.

After action taken by the state governor, Louisiana has returned to allowing 100% capacity for all outdoor sporting events, and will not require fans to wear masks at outdoor events. The focus on this new/old status is LSU's 2021 NCAA football season.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Both Chicago MLB teams are planning massive capacity increases later this month.
for the
The White Sox and Cubs will increase crowd limits to 60% of capacity. This begins on May 24 for the White Sox and May 28 for the Cubs.

Both teams will also have sections set aside for fans who have been fully vaccinated; sections 108 and 109 at Comiskey Park and the upper level of bleachers beneath the center field scoreboard at Wrigley Field. Seating in these areas does not count against the overall 60% capacity limit.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

NASCAR fans will love this:

The Charlotte (NC) Motor Speedway has announced that, for the Memorial Day weekend Coca-Cola 600, fans will be admitted to 100% seating capacity, and will NOT require fans to wear masks.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Two of MLB's West Coast ballclubs have announced the dates where they will resume admitting fans up to full capacity. The Dodgers will return to normal on June 15 and the Angels will do likewise on June 17.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Gov. Murphy of New Jersey has signed a bill that will allow sports venue to admit fans up to full capacity. The new status begins this coming Friday and will allow the tenants of MetLife Stadium (NFL Giants and Jets) to be able to try and fill the stadium when the 2021 season begins.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

A report heard this morning on WGN Morning News indicates that, at this time, 30 of the 32 NFL teams have been given the OK to allow fans in at full capacity. Still waiting for the go-ahead: Denver and Indianapolis.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

The New York Knicks have announced that if the team wins their current playoff series, starting with Round 2, while capacities won't bee diminished, fans will need a vaccine passport (to verify being fully vaccinated) in order to be admitted.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

As of June 11, COVID-19 crowd capacity limits for sports stadiums and arenas in the city will be terminated, meaning that the Cubs and White Sox will both be allowed to admit fans up to their pre-pandemic levels.

Dave Miedema,

[sox83cubs84]

The University of Illinois has announced that their football stadium will resume allowing fans in up to full capacity for the 2021 NCAA football season. This will begin on 8/28 when the Fighting Illini hosts Nebraska.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

While the Buffalo Bills will be opening their stadium to 100% capacity, there is a caveat. Given regulations still in effect by the county, the Bills will only be allowed to admit fans for games who can prove 100% vaccination against COVID19.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

It's a good news/bad news situation in Japan.

Organizers for this summer's Tokyo Olympics have decided to allow fans to attend the events of the Games, but with a couple of catches.

First, all venues will be limited to either 50% of capacity or 10,000 fans.

Second, fans in attendance will NOT be allowed to cheer for the athletes.

Finally, fan attendance will be limited to only residents of Japan.

Japan is far behind the USA in terms of vaccinations. According to the New York Times, only about 18% of the Japanese population has received even one dose of the vaccine, and roughly 7.3% of the populace has been fully vaccinated.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Northwestern University of the Big Ten announced that there will be no restrictions on crowd capacity for their entire 2021-22 athletic schedule.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

It's a good news/bad news situation in Japan.

Organizers for this summer's Tokyo Olympics have decided to allow fans to attend the events of the Games, but with a couple of catches.

First, all venues will be limited to either 50% of capacity or 10,000 fans.

Second, fans in attendance will NOT be allowed to cheer for the athletes.

Finally, fan attendance will be limited to only residents of Japan.

Japan is far behind the USA in terms of vaccinations. According to the New York Times, only about 18% of the Japanese population has received even one dose of the vaccine, and roughly 7.3% of the populace has been fully vaccinated.

Dave Miedema


It was announced earlier today that fans will be kept out of the venues of all 2021 Summer Olympics events, whether they are Japanese residents or otherwise.

Dave

[sox83cubs84]

It's still not over.

The Thursday night game between the Yankees and Red Sox has been postponed due to one or more positive COVID19 test results on the Yankees.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

This evening's game between the Nationals and the Phillies was postponed after a dozen members of the Nats (4 players and 8 staff) tested positive for COVID19.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

With the new Delta Variant causing concerns, the pandemic problems and restrictions aren't over yet. It's been announced that, while the New Orleans Saints of the NFL are not limiting overall capacity, fans, in order to be allowed into the game, will either have to show proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID19 test taken no more than 72 hours before game time.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

While the ballpark won't be empty. the announcement has been made that the Little League World Series will not be admitting the general public as a COVID19 precaution. There will still be a crowd, but it'll be limited to families, friends and community members of the participating ballclubs, 250 per team.

Dave

[sox83cubs84]

New York City mayor Bill DeBlasio has announced new pandemic directives which, beginning on 9/13, will require all fans and arena staff who work at or attend games in the Barclay Center, home of the Brookly Nets and the WNBA New York Liberty, to be able to prove vaccination in order to enter the arena. All fans age 12 and older will have to prove having had at least one vaccination

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

The Carolina Panmthersw have made their COVID19 move for the 2021 season. While they won't be checking people for their vaccination status, the team has announced that masks must be worn in any and all indoor areas of the stadium, including the indoor portions of the concourses of the 300 and 400 levels.

Dave

[sox83cubs84]

Canada has now entered the realm of new and updated COVID19 protocol for 2021.

Both Scotiabank Arena, indoor home of the NBA Raptors and NHL Maple Leafs, will now require either proof of vaccination or a negative result from a recently taken COVID19 test. This is also applicable to BMO Field, where Toronto's MLS team hosts their home games (outdoors).

The new regs will be activated during mid-September.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

The Washington Nationals have apparently become the first MLB team to terminate employees based on their refusal to get a COVID19 vaccination.

The Nats are taking 8 of their scouts off the payroll, 2 of them being for their refusal to get vaccinated.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Washington Nationals have apparently become the first MLB team to terminate employees based on their refusal to get a COVID19 vaccination.

The Nats are taking 8 of their scouts off the payroll, 2 of them being for their refusal to get vaccinated.

Dave Miedema

Nats GM and former Phillies catcher Bob Boone has announced that he has resigned from the position due to declining to be vaccinated.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

Don't expect to see Johnny Bench at the upcoming Baseball HOF induction ceremonies. Despite being fully vaccinated, Bench has tested positive for COVID19, and as a result had chosen not to attend.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

Some good news:

The Canadian Government has given approval for the Toronto Raptors to resume playing their home games in Scotiabank Arena this upcoming season/preseason. There is no announcement as of yet regarding any crowd capacity maximums for games, but it HAS been announced that fans will have to show proof of vaccination to be admitted to games.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

The Buffalo Bills have switched gears and have now joined the Las Vegas Raiders in requiring fans to show proof of COVID19 vaccination in order to be admitted to all remaining 2021 home games. The stricter policy comes after a torrent of complaints from fans at their home opener. In a setting in which wearing masks was the main means of health control, thousands of fans were not wearing face masks in outdoor or indoor areas of the stadium.

The vaccine proof rules will now also be applicable for Buffalo Sabres home games this coming season.

Dave M.

[sox83cubs84]

With California's recall election now history, Los Angeles County has announced new COVID19 protocols.

Effective 10/7, fans attending any outdoor events of 10,000 people or more will be required to prove being vaccinated or show proof of testing negative within less than 72 hours of the starting time in order to be admitted. This will apply to any Dodgers postseason games, as well as Rams and Chargers NFL games.

For now, Angels games are not included, as Anaheim is located in Orange County.

Dave Miedema

[sox83cubs84]

MLB has announced that, for the 2021 playoffs, all team employees (players exempted) will need to be fully vaccinated for COVID19. This includes managers and coaches in uniform, and ALL non-uniformed personnel. Exceptions will be made for non-players only if the employee has received one dose of the vaccine before the playoffs begin and their second dose is already scheduled.

Dave