Indiana high school football season opens quieter, with masks for all
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — It was quieter under the Friday night lights as Ben Davis and Brownsburg faced off, one of many games marking the start of the high school football season in Indiana.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, only 1,000 fans were allowed inside the Ben Davis stadium that seats 9,000.
Fans had to sit in groups of six with their family members. Masks were also required to be worn at all times, even for players and coaches.
Ben Davis science teacher Lydia Finchum helped remind people as they entered the gates. She’s been taking tickets for school sporting events for the past four years.
“All of this is different this year. They’re just so grateful to be out of the house and, even if it’s not the way it looked last year, they’re at least here,” Finchum said.
Fans told News 8 that, even with all the new rules, this event was the first normal feeling they’ve felt in months.
“That’s why I wear a mask, so my son can play football,” said Brownsburg parent Stacie Dalton.
“I’ve seen games canceled all over the state so I’m just thankful it’s on,” added Sam Terrell.
“I think it will be a little weird, but we’re Ben Davis and we’re gonna make some noise,” said Melissa Hardesty.
Every school is handling its season and games a little differently so it’s best to check websites before just showing up. Some teams, in announcements on Twitter, began selling tickets Friday night for next week’s matchups.