As Canada continues to vaccinate the general population, we’re coming seemingly closer and closer to the end of this mess. Over 50% of Canada’s eligible population have received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.
With the good news, sports fans are on the edge of their seats to return to stadiums.
“As soon as there is a chance to play at home, we are ready to go home and ready to party,” said Axel Schuster, CEO and sporting director for the Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
Hope and optimism have been challenging to maintain over the past year, but don’t give up. Last week, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry addressed the possibility of fans returning to sporting events.
(kristinelonsford / Pixabay)
Sports like hockey are more difficult because they’re indoors, so we should see a later return in the fall. However, football, soccer, and baseball stadiums allow for fresh air flow, making them a far safer option, so by mid-late summer, you could see a BC Lions game live from BC Place.
Vancouver is also still hoping to host the Canada Sevens Rugby tournament this fall.
The BC Lions have pitched a return-to-play proposal for this summer which includes, a capacity of roughly 4,500 fans. The open roof feature at BC Place makes for a safe environment to enjoy your favourite sport and bring back the fan culture our local teams have been missing.
Do you remember the first sports game you watched on TV amidst the pandemic? It was jarring to hear no cheers and screams, to not see tears shed and smiling faces. Crowds are a huge part of any sport. A full house of cheering fans can be what pushes your team to a win.
Fans create the atmosphere of what sports are. Not to mention how many leagues rely on their dedicated fans to stay afloat. 60% of the CFL’s revenue comes from fans at the gate. Another year of empty stadiums could be the breaking point.
We’re all excited for a return to normalcy. Whatever that will mean? As long as that return includes seeing a Whitecaps game, many Vancouverites will be happy. A return to the stadium is important for fans and players. Let’s work together so that we can cheer together.