Recently, the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association released a bombshell: no fans of any kind will be permitted to watch fall sports contests. Amidst the pandemic, many measures have been taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19; however, this measure has taken prevention too far. By making this decision, PIAA has effectively taken away valuable memories from senior athletes and their parents. Touchdowns will not be the same without parents cheering players on, and cheerleaders will not have fans to hype up. The night of the homecoming game will be a sad one, and seniors will miss the iconic moment of their parents walking them across the football field on senior night.

          By signing this petition, you join me in urging Pennsylvania representatives as well as PIAA to reverse this decision and explore alternatives. Other preventative measures, such as not permitting concession stands, only allowing parents of seniors, or only permitting so many tickets per athlete to allow for social distancing would be just as effective while preserving memories for senior athletes and their families. People are much more crowded in an indoor grocery store or restaurant; social distancing is possible and much easier within an outdoor football field. Do not take this final season experience away from us seniors and our parents. Reverse this decision.