The Allegheny County Health Department and the WPIAL released a statement on Friday saying that football can be played in the county, despite the department’s 50-person gathering maximum for outdoor events.
The department and the WPIAL have agreed to count each sideline as a separate 50-player pod, allowing games to be played, though some larger teams with large coaching and training staffs may have to be selective about how many players dress for each game.
“On a sideline, team members as well as coaches and staff, are physically distanced and following the order for universal face covering,” read the statement. “They are spread out and are not exceeding the 50-person gathering limit. On the opposite side of the field, the same is occurring in another pod.”
The WPIAL did not clarify whether its games that take place in other counties will be played under the same requirements. The outdoor gathering maximum its 250 in all other Western Pennsylvania counties.
As per the ACHD and PIAA rules, spectators will not be permitted at games this fall.
