Raider fans reminded to wear masks

Games could be forfeited at high school sports events if fans don’t comply with mask requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Raider fans need to wear masks and wear them correctly at Raider indoor events, the school district superintendent says.

A Sept. 15 notice from Superintendent Paul Turner addressed to “Raider Boosters” seeks to get everyone “on the same page” and asks them to adhere to the masks mandate.

“During these unprecedented times, there are many inconveniences that we need to adhere to in order to keep school staff and students as safe as possible,” the notice reads. “One of these is wearing masks during sporting events.” 

“Currently, masks are mandated for ALL indoor events including sporting events,” the notice continues. “Whether you are vaccinated or not, it will be mandatory that you wear a mask while in the building. This includes wearing them correctly. If you need a mask, the ASB is selling Raider masks and will have some available for purchase.”

There are also no concessions being sold at Raider events, and Turner asked fans not to bring snacks into the gym.

“Working together we can keep our gyms open, our sports going, and continue to enjoy watching our student athletes participate,” he wrote. “Thank you for helping support Raider athletics. You are the greatest fans.” 

Spectator guidelines on the Raiders’ athletic website explain that masks are required at indoor events, and some people may choose to wear them while outdoors where fans are encouraged to not sit too close to fans from other households.

The rule to wear masks comes from the Washington State Department of Health. The Central Washington B league added their own resolution, passed with unanimous approval, that will punish a team whose fans refuse to wear a mask by stopping the contest and assigning them a forfeit. 

Unlike last school year, visiting fans are allowed throughout the league.

“Respectful cooperation, at home and on the road, will be essential in making it possible to continue to allow visiting spectators throughout the entire fall season and the rest of the year,” the school website says.

The Raiders’ athletic website can be found at http://www.lrraiders.com .