Going to a high school football game in Middle GA? What to know during COVID-19.

Friday night lights will look different this season in Middle Georgia because of the coronaivurs pandemic.

New Northside Eagles head coach Chad Alligood was uncertain if high school football would go on, but he’s now excited to step onto the field and lead his team Friday night. The chance to play football is one that he isn’t taking for granted.

“You look at the world, there’s not too much that we’re all in together with right now. And I think that’s what football teaches,” Alligood said. “I think the GHSA and the school system have done a great job of keeping safety first.”

One of the biggest changes for prep football spectators at Northside and other Middle Georgia schools will be seating capacity, with many districts only allowing less than 30% occupancy. Social distancing and mask wearing will also be enforced.

Alligood said that while fans are important to the environment on Friday nights, the team and coaches aren’t worried about that and are ready to play the game.

“This first week is going to be kind of trial and error,” he said. “I think as the season moves forward, hopefully, there’s a chance to put more fans in the stands. But right now, the most important thing is we just get to play the game.”

At Mount de Sales, head coach Keith Hatcher is preparing for the season after coming off one of the best in school history. The Cavaliers finished their regular season perfect last year before a first-round playoff exit.

One of Hatcher’s biggest concerns was whether this senior class would get the chance to play. The group has been a part of three straight winning seasons with three playoff births.

“I think football is something that every community rallies around and the threat of that being gone was kind of sad to even think about,” Hatcher said. “We lost some really good players and crucial seniors last year to graduation — this group is exciting. I’m excited about the opportunity to continue what’s been built here the last couple years.”

Here are the restrictions and guidelines for fans from Middle Georgia school districts that were submitted The Telegraph. Schools can send updates or new guidelines to jbaxley@macon.com

Bibb County

• Visiting bands will not be allowed at athletic events.
• Stadium capacity will be limited to about 20%.
• Seats will be sectioned off to ensure social distancing.
• Tickets must be purchased in advance using the GoFan app.
• There will be no free admission to home athletics for district employees this school year due to limited seating.
• GHSA passes will still be honored.
• Players and coaches will have their temperature taken prior to the games each week or before boarding the bus for away games. If the temperature is still over 100.4, the athlete will be isolated with a mask until picked up from the school.
• Face masks must be worn when traveling to and from athletic venues.
• On the bus, only one person per seat that is allowed, with a mask on. Windows must be down when possible.
• Cloth face coverings that tie around the head or loop around the ear are recommended if used with a helmet and masks must not be shared.
• All game day personnel will be required to wear face coverings.
• All fans will be required to wear a face covering. Masks can be removed while seated and socially distanced.
• Each sideline will have hand sanitizer.
• All benches and tables will be sanitized before and after games.
• The sidelines will be limited to athletes, coaches, medical staff and game day staff.
• Fans will be restricted from competition areas and from visiting players and personnel at all times.
• Concession stand workers will wear masks and gloves and will undergo a screening before working.
• Only water, soft drinks and pre-packaged items will be allowed for sell and must be sold outside of fixed stands.
• All gate workers will wear masks and gloves and a clear bag policy will be in place.

Houston County

• Signs will be placed throughout the stadiums as reminders to fans to wash their hands, practice social distancing and wear a mask.
• Fans will be asked to wear a mask when they are not able to social distance from people who are outside of their home.
• Attendance will be limited to 25% capacity.

Stratford

Indoor Venues:

• Masks are required to enter the venue and must be worn at all times inside the venue.
• If you do not have a mask one will be provided to you upon request.
• Please practice standard social distancing guidelines while seated or standing inside the venue, using the restrooms, or purchasing concessions.
• Spectators should not congregate at the venue before, during, or after the event.
• Please be diligent to sanitize and/or wash your hands when appropriate.
• No one is allowed to assemble on the floor or court when the contest is over.

Outdoor Venues:

• Masks are required to enter the venue and must be worn at all times inside the venue.
• If you do not have a mask one will be provided to you upon request.
• Please practice standard social distancing guidelines while seated or standing inside the venue, using the restrooms, or purchasing concessions.
• Spectators should not congregate at the venue before, during, or after the event.
• Please be diligent to sanitize and/or wash your hands when appropriate.
• No one is allowed to assemble on the field or playing area when the contest is over.

Jones County

Capacity at the game will be limited to 50%. Masks are recommended and will be provided at the gate if you do not have one. Social distancing is encouraged.

Mount de Sales

Masks are required at the games. No other restrictions in place.