Sept 2, 2021

To Whom It May Concern:

This letter is to voice our concerns with the recent policy of banning spectators at local high school sporting events due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It is our understanding that the Algoma District School Board and the Huron Superior Catholic District School Board have agreed to institute a policy that this fall 2021,only players and coaches will be able to attend all high school sporting events despite the location of the event. Although we are mindful that the Algoma Public Health has offered guidance on this policy, we are also aware that the directive did not come from them.

We have concerns with this decision and how it has come to fruition. Was this policy based on what is occurring across the province and at other schools? Have you considered our limited number of cases here in Sault Ste. Marie? Further, it is clear, that exposure in an indoor setting differs from exposure in an outdoor venue. In addition, questions remain as to why the decision was made to group all sports into one category. All venues are unique and in our view should be treated as such.

Many places in Ontario have started to open back up including schools, industries, recreational facilities, restaurants, gyms, retail stores etc. Clearly, these places allow more people to congregate than what would occur at a football game. Football is a unique game that exhibits passion, emotion, excitement, and dedication across the community in Sault Ste. Marie.  For those of us with student athletes in high school (especially seniors), we have precious time left to see our children on the field of play. 

We believe that it is safe and reasonable to allow spectators to attend the Sault Ste. Marie high school football games.  First, the number of games in question is limited. Additionally, we believe that there are many possible solutions to this conundrum that could be explored. Currently, in Southern Ontario, contact tracing is often done before individuals enter public places such as restaurants or other venues. This same approach could be adapted for the football games. The Covid screening questions, that our children must complete daily for school, could be shared with potential spectators. Any spectator would be responsible to answer the questions. Further, there is plenty of room at Superior Heights to socially distance using the entire property and parents and spectators would gladly comply.  Masks could also be worn when entering and exiting the field. 

Though we are grateful to have our children have an opportunity to play football this season, we ask that you reconsider your stance on this matter and allow spectators in.  This petition and all the signatures show how many people (not just families) feel about this issue. Our students deserve to have their families cheer for them.  Parents should be able to watch their children play and students should be able to play with people watching and cheering for them.  Isn’t that a big part of why they play sports? They have endured so much through this pandemic and should at least have their families there to support them.

Thank you for your consideration on this matter