March 9, 2021
It was announced Monday, March 8th that more spectators can be in attendance at IHSA outdoor sporting events statewide for the remainder of the school year – to 20% capacity. The previous guidelines allowed only 50 spectators at an event regardless of its location. The change does not affect indoor: only 50 spectators are still allowed. Galesburg Athletic Director Eric Matthews says he estimates that could do 475-500 spectators at Van Dyke Field – not including standing areas around the field. “That pretty much takes care of the 20%,” Matthews said. “We have a large number out for football; we have a decent amount out for cheerleading and Gadets; and our band is up around 100 (members) and the Color Guard. So we kind of hit that number pretty quick. And I think that’s OK because, at the end of the day, it’s trying to make sure that whoever is in the stadium as a participant, they have someone there that is able to see them.” Matthews says now they a