There would be masks and social distance requirements. East Helena proposed spectators with a limit of 250, as well as two tickets per participant to start and no out-of-town spectators. The Vigilantes are scheduled to open their new football stadium Tuesday night. 

The Helena Public Schools plan would also not allow out-of-town spectators. 

“After speaking with the other Class AA athletic directors, nobody is allowing out of town fans at this point,” McMahon said. “My wish is that we start with games for the kids and then move to limited spectators so the parents can watch them and go from there.”

Dr. Shelly Harkins of St. Peter’s hospital also supported spectators as long as people wore masks and sat within their family groups.

“I think if people wear masks and distance,” Harkins said. “Especially with activities outside, having spectators is relatively safe.”

Niemann said that local school districts had already submitted plans for review. 

Tyler Ream, Superintendent of Helena Public Schools, asked the health department to approve the district’s plan immediately, in order for the district to implement the plan this Saturday for home soccer matches for Helena Capital and Helena High. 

“In order for us to be active this weekend and start this through the two soccer programs, we would need approval today,” Ream said. “We have passes printed. They are non-transferable. We would need that by Friday to make sure we have this in place by Saturday.”