The Schuylkill League Superintendents and Schuylkill League Executive Committee members met Sunday to address Pa. Gov. Tom Wolf’s directive of a 250-person cap at outside events, which places each school district in a difficult position when determining access to Schuylkill League contests.

Their joint statement is as follows:

“The genesis of our decision is both student and health centered, primarily focusing on our students who participate in school sponsored activities. It is the decision of both Schuylkill League Superintendents and the Schuylkill League Executive Committee that each away school will only be able a set number of student athletes, coaches, and essential game workers. All away fans will not be granted access. We understand that this will upset fans and parents, however our focus is on allowing our students who participate in student activities. Each school who participates in our league is making an effort to present livestreaming opportunities for all parents and fans.

“Check in with your school’s athletic director for information regarding streaming for these events. Please know that this decision was not taken lightly. We know that it creates hardships and possible heartbreak for fans and parents, but we felt it is in the best interest of our participating students to come to this decision. Each district is continuing to review local decisions and protocols.”

The release followed a similar announcement from the Colonial League last week.

“Since current guidance allows visitors and spectators to attend in-person contests, sports specific spectator guidelines of host outdoor facilities are encouraged. The limit of 250 persons at any outdoor contest is challenging to maximize participation of our athletes and thus allow all spectators,” the Colonial League statement read. “Therefore, we are encouraging the following of our members to maximize participation of our student athletes. Where possible, only home parents and possibly siblings of athletes should be allowed to attend when the event nears maximum capacity. All members are encouraged to provide an online livestream of all contests.”

Each member school must provide information on any facility that is more restrictive than guidance that is currently available. Schools should communicate roster sizes to the host site for any event/contest to assure guidelines are met.

For example, if a facility can only hold 400 people based on the guidelines, then the max capacity is 200 people under a 50% occupancy limitation.

The release also stated, “contests should not start and will be suspended by event management and/or PIAA officials if representatives from the member schools are not in compliance with current Pennsylvania and/or School District Return to Sport Plans.

“The Colonial League and its member schools will continue to monitor Pennsylvania and PIAA guidance. As guidance changes, the Colonial League and our member schools will remain in compliance.”