News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
New COVID guidelines will be in place for Thursday night’s game against Livingston Academy after fans failed to socially distance during the first game.
Tickets will be limited and pre-sold at the high school’s main office only. No tickets will be sold at the entrance of the game. COVID screenings will be required at the gates. Fans will be required to wear masks and socially distance during the game.
Cookeville High School Principal Max Petett said spectators who do not follow the guidelines will be asked to leave.
“Our first home football game last week, we had everything in place, and we thought it was going to be perfect,” Petett said. “And next thing you know, that fell apart pretty quick on us. It was hard to police at that point. But, we are going to do a better job this week and make sure everybody is safe.”
Petett said the biggest concern is the student section. The school received a warning from TSSAA about fans not following guidelines. Petett said if guidelines are not followed, football could be at risk.
“The commissioner of TSSAA, not just to us, but I think all teams across the state issued a stern warning that these guidelines must be followed, or if not, the future of high school football this year could be at stake,” Petett said. “He has taken a very form stance on that. Our superintendent is taking a form stance on that.”
Petett said students were not the only fans not following safe practices, outlined by the CDC and TSSSAA.
“I am not going to put that all on our students,” Petett said. “A lot of adults there did not follow the guidelines, as well. Hopefully, the restrictions we put in will help manage that a lot better.”
Cookeville High School will play at Tucker Stadium against Livingston Academy Thursday night at 7:00 p.m.
