What’s in a number?
Well for a ton of LHSAA athletic programs around the state, numbers may destroy any hope of having certain sports.
When the decision was made to allow only 25% stadium capacities to watch football games this season was released, I was left speechless.
Now that I have had time to think about it for a couple of weeks, the more asinine the idea becomes.
I mean 25% in an open air stadium??? Where was that capacity for all of the youth baseball and softball played this summer???
I think what those powers that be do not understand is that a lot of high school athletic departments rely on football revenue to provide money for the rest of the sports. I know of several schools that would not have a baseball, softball or track program if not for the money generated at football games.
Let’s just sit and think about this for a minute.
Let’s say, for the sake of argument, that your stadium capacity is 2,000. At 25%, you can only have 500 people attend your games.
Now multiply 500 times the cost of a ticket. Let’s say you charge $8 a ticket (an average price around the state). So, 500 times $8 equals $4,000.
Now, you might be thinking to yourself that is a lot of money. Hold on!!
First, you must pay the referees. For those of you that don’t know, it costs each home team over $1,000 for a crew of six referees and a timekeeper. So, now you are down to $3,000 of revenue. (That’s not including paying security).
Remember, you only have four home games this season. So, teams miss out on a gate.
Now take that money and divide it amongst all of the athletic programs at a school. Not much there, considering all of the things that must be bought to operate those programs.
There are those out there that say to hell with the money, this is about the safety of the people.
I understand that, but at some point and time, we the people must be able to decide for ourselves what situations we want to put ourselves in. We still live in a country where our freedoms are protected? Just asking for a friend.
If you feel unsafe do not attend. But for God’s sake, give these athletic programs a chance. Make fans wear masks. Aren’t they supposed to work???
Just my opinion!!!
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Tracey Jagneaux
Sports Editor