OHSAA limits attendance

COLUMBUS, Ohio — State tournaments are heating up.

Very few spectators will be allowed to see them first hand.

The OHSAA on Tuesday, following a recommendation from Gov. Mike DeWine, announced all indoor tournament events will continue, but with limited spectators in an effort to slow down the spread of coronavirus.

“As everyone knows, after a conversation with Gov. DeWine this afternoon and ultimately his news conference today, he did announce and make a very strong recommendation along with state superintendent of schools that our events could continue, however continue on a very limited basis with fan attendance,” OHSAA executive director Jerry Snodgrass said in a press conference Tuesday afternoon. “Knowing the significance that our events play in the life of a high school student, he did agree, Gov. DeWine did agree to allow parents to attend the contests.

“I commend him for that because certainly the time, effort, sometimes the money our parents have put into those kids to make it happen.”

The girls basketball, wrestling and ice hockey state tournaments are set for this weekend while boys basketball regional tournaments started Tuesday, and its state tournament begins March 19.

Tickets will be limited to four per athlete for each sport. Administrators, coaches and bus drivers have specific guidelines depending on the sport.

“We are going to put on our events and try to make the most memorable experience that we can for the student athletes, coaches and schools that are involved,” Snodgrass said.

The Mid-American Conference announced Tuesday its men’s basketball tournament, which begins today in Cleveland, will be closed to spectators.