Fans are returning to New Jersey’s sporting events starting March 1, according to Governor Phil Murphy. It will be the first time since COVID-19 closed much of the country last March that fans will be attending professional and high school games that take place in the state.
The governor announced during an interview on Monday at WFAN that sports facilities with a capacity of more than 5,000 may allow a small percentage of fans to participate in the events. Indoor facilities, such as the Prudential Center, home of the New Jersey Devils, have 10% of their allowed capacity. Outdoor facilities, such as MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants and Jets, can hold 15% at events.
In a joint statement, the Giants and Jets expressed hope that the numbers for COVID-19 will continue to improve during the spring and summer and that the number of people allowed at MetLife Stadium “will continually increase.” They expect to have even more than the 12,375 spectators currently allowed at 15% capacity.
The NFL season doesn’t start until September.
Governor Murphy announces plans for Giants fans to return to MetLife Stadium pic.twitter.com/3DrGjhUuF5
– New York Giants (@Giants) February 22, 2021
The Devils plan to open their doors to fans on March 2, when they host the New York Islanders at the Prudential Center. Ten percent of its capacity for a hockey game would allow approximately 1,650 spectators.
“This is a day that our entire team has been planning, working on and looking forward to for the past 11 months,” Devils President Jake Reynolds said in a statement. “Those who enter the building will feel confident that our processes and protocols are focused on making their safety the number one priority. This includes maximizing social distance, minimizing contact and using products and technology to ensure well-being, safety and the pleasure of our fans and participants. The fan journey was developed to provide confidence to the consumer from the street to the seat, and we can’t wait to feel their energy welcoming them back to the Prudential Center to cheer and personally celebrate the Devil. “
Seton Hall basketball also aims to bring fans back to their March 3 game against the University of Connecticut at the Prudential Center.