On Friday, Jan. 29, students could attend the home basketball game against Salina Central for the first time this season.

Prior to this game, only players, coaches and parents/guardians of the players could attend. Coaches could also have their parent/guardians or significant other. These guidelines were in effect from Dec. 10 to Jan. 28.

Students were given the chance to go to the games after the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) changed its attendance policies to allow four people per participant. The policies were also changed from allowing only parents to allowing anyone. However, to get into the game, students had to get tickets from the office or from the players. According to the ticket count, at the last game, there were 86 students in attendance.

“We wanted to be able to give students a chance to come back, especially seniors,” activities director Lance Krannawitter said. “Students provide the atmosphere that allows the game to be fun. It was nice for them to be able to cheer at some home sporting events.”

Regarding COVID-19, social distancing is still required. Only a limited number of students are allowed to attend each game. Every player has three tickets that they can give to anyone they want. Cheerleaders and band members get two tickets. The leftover tickets are what is given to the students who want to attend.

“With everything that’s going on around us, we felt that giving students opportunities to come and cheer on their team before they graduate is a great idea,” Krannawitter said.

23ksteinle@usd489.com